Mississauga tells renters to call landlord first, then 311, as heating season nears

Mississauga renters with heating problems, water leaks or pest infestations should contact their landlord or property manager first, and call 311 only if the issue is not resolved, the City of Mississauga says. The City published the guidance on Sept. 21, as temperatures drop and maintenance issues become harder to manage.

The advice covers apartments, basement units, rooms and houses. The City says acting early can keep small issues from becoming bigger problems, and that renters who know where to turn often resolve concerns sooner.

The City lists common rental housing concerns as heating and cooling problems, water leaks and plumbing issues, pest infestations, damaged walls, ceilings, floors, doors or windows, and mould, broken appliances or electrical problems. It says fall is a good time to learn about available help before colder weather arrives, because heating problems may become more noticeable in winter and can affect health and well-being if they are not fixed.

The first step is for a renter to determine whether the issue is their own responsibility, such as routine cleaning, resetting a tripped breaker or replacing a light bulb. For other maintenance or property standards concerns, the City says to contact the landlord or property manager, explain the issue clearly and give them a reasonable opportunity to respond.

Many issues can be resolved when tenants and landlords communicate early and understand their responsibilities.City of Mississauga

Renters do not need to contact the City about every housing issue, according to the guidance. If the issue is not resolved, the City may be able to help by providing information about rental housing standards, explaining available options and helping renters understand what support may be available.

Residents who are unsure of their next steps can call 311 for guidance. The City says calling 311 does not automatically mean filing a complaint, and that residents can also request a call back from a Bylaw Officer to discuss their situation and available options.

Tenants in registered apartment buildings have another route. The City's Rental Standards Program is meant to ensure registered apartment buildings are well maintained and meet City standards. If a tenant in a registered building has reported a maintenance issue to property management without success, the City says the concern may be reportable through the program.

The City says renters are an important part of every Mississauga neighbourhood, and that safe, well maintained homes support health, comfort and strong communities. It adds that whether a renter is new to renting, new to Mississauga or unsure where to start, knowing their responsibilities and acting early can prevent concerns from becoming more serious.

More information on property standards, rental housing concerns and City services is available on the City's Property Standards page, or by contacting 311.