Age Discrimination in Ontario: Work, Housing and Services

Under Ontario's Human Rights Code, age means 18 years or more. It is protected in employment, housing, services, contracts and memberships.

At work

• No mandatory retirement: it ended in Ontario in 2006.
• Hiring, promotion and training must not be based on age stereotypes.
• Comments like "we want someone younger" can be evidence of discrimination.

In housing

• Landlords can't refuse to rent to you because of your age.
• 16- and 17-year-olds who have left their parents' care have some protection when renting.
• Seniors' residences and some special programs can lawfully be limited by age.

In services

Businesses must not refuse service, or give worse service, because of age, unless an exception applies, such as some insurance practices.

If you face age discrimination

1. Keep notes, emails and job postings.
2. Raise your concern in writing.
3. You can apply to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, usually within one year.

Sources

• Ontario Human Rights Code
• OHRC: age discrimination
• Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (Tribunals Ontario)

Read next: Sexual Harassment by a Landlord: Your Rights as a Tenant

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

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This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.