To mark National Housing Day, we’re launching 5 Questions for Change, a monthly feature that brings you insights from the people at CCHR working on the frontlines every day to advance the right to housing.
This month, we’re talking with Brightson Okenwa, Senior Legal Education Specialist.
- What are two issues you see renters struggling with most right now?
Affordability and housing security: Across Ontario, rising rental prices are pushing many people to make difficult choices about where and how they live, often leading to overcrowded and less desirable housing arrangements such as rooming houses.
Many tenants experience ongoing insecurity due to the fear of eviction; particularly those who share kitchens or bathrooms with their landlords and are therefore not fully covered by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This lack of legal protection makes it hard to feel stable or safe in one’s home. More broadly, renters often aren’t fully aware of their rights or where to seek support when common issues arise. These combined pressures highlight the importance of organizations like CCHR, which help tenants understand their rights, navigate housing challenges, and work toward secure, affordable housing. - What are the most common questions or myths you hear from renters and service providers?
One of the most common myths I hear during most CCHR’s tenant training, is that “if I don’t have a written lease, I’m not protected under the Residential Tenancies Act.” (RTA)
In reality, a rental agreement does not have to be in writing to be legally valid. As long as a tenant is paying rent, not sharing the kitchen/bathroom with the landlord or the landlord’s family and has the landlord’s permission to occupy the unit, they are generally covered under the RTA and entitled to the same rights and protections as someone with a written lease. This includes rules around rent increases, eviction notices, and maintenance responsibilities. Many tenants/renters are unaware of this, which can lead to confusion and fear about their legal standing. Helping people understand that verbal or implied tenancies still carry legal protections is an important part of promoting housing stability and tenant confidence. - What is one resource, either from CCHR or other sources, you find yourself referring people to most often – and why?
One of the most common resources I refer people to is CLEO’s Steps to Justice website which provides clear, step-by-step information about tenants’ rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act. It covers a wide range of topics: from rent increases and repairs to eviction notices to mention a few and helps in empowering renters to advocate for themselves, understand what protections apply to their situation, and seek fair outcomes when issues arise with their landlords. - If you could offer one piece of advice to renters across the country, what would it be?
Stay informed and keep records! Knowing your rights is your strongest protection and documenting your interactions; like maintenance requests, or taking pictures, can make all the difference, if disputes arise. I’d also encourage renters to reach out for help early. CCHR and other housing advocacy organizations are ready to assist, but too often, people wait until a small issue becomes a crisis. You’re not alone in navigating the housing system, meaningful support, is out there! - What drives you to do the work you do at CCHR?
I’m driven by the belief that housing is more than a basic need; it’s a foundation for dignity, security, and opportunity to thrive. Very often, I see how access to fair and stable housing transforms lives. Working at CCHR allows me to be part of that positive change; helping people understand their rights, challenge systemic barriers, and build stronger, more equitable communities. It’s deeply rewarding to know that CCHR’s work contributes to making “home” a reality for more people, especially those who are often marginalized or underserved.