Much of Ontario will be walking — and shovelling — in a winter wonderland today.

Everyone knows (or should know) that big fines are in store if you fail to shovel the snow outside your home. But what if you rent your property? Is it still your responsibility, or your landlord’s? 

That’s the $500 question.

According to Section 20(1) of the Residential Tenancies Act, “a landlord is responsible for providing and maintaining a residential complex, including the rental units in it, in a good state of repair and fit for habitation and for complying with health, safety, housing and maintenance standards.” And according to court rulings, this includes snow removal.