Whether you're searching for the perfect rental or managing your investment property — we have the knowledge to help.
From application to key handover — what every renter needs to know in Ontario
Your step-by-step guide to renting in Ontario's competitive market
A common guideline: rent should not exceed 35% of your gross monthly income. Factor in hydro, internet, parking, and tenant insurance (typically $15–$30/month). Always ask what utilities are included in the rent before you apply.
Landlords receive multiple applications. Stand out with a complete package: government-issued ID, employment letter, recent pay stubs (last 3 months), bank statements, credit report, and a brief reference letter from a previous landlord if available.
Most landlords require a credit score of 650+. Check yours for free at Equifax or TransUnion before applying. Low score? Offer a larger deposit (where legally permitted), a co-signer, or first and last months' rent upfront.
In Ontario, leases must use the standard LTB (Landlord and Tenant Board) lease form. Read every clause — especially regarding rent increases, maintenance responsibilities, pets, parking, and subletting. Don't sign anything you don't understand.
Photograph and video every room, wall, appliance, and fixture on move-in day. Email the photos to yourself and your landlord immediately. This is your protection if there's a dispute over the last month's rent or deposit at move-out.
The Residential Tenancies Act protects you. Landlords cannot enter without 24 hours written notice (except emergencies). Rent increases require 90 days written notice and can only happen once per year. Know the LTB — it's your recourse if issues arise.
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Your landlord's building insurance does NOT cover your personal belongings. Tenant insurance covers theft, fire, and water damage to your contents, plus liability if someone is injured in your unit. It's typically $15–$30/month and many landlords now require it. Don't skip it.
In Ontario, rent increases are capped by the provincial Rent Increase Guideline (typically 2–3% annually). Your landlord must give 90 days written notice using the proper LTB form. Increases can only happen once every 12 months. Units first occupied after Nov 15, 2018 are exempt from rent control.
Under Ontario's RTA, landlords must keep the unit in good repair, comply with health/safety standards, and respond to maintenance requests in a reasonable timeframe. Always submit maintenance requests in writing (email is fine). If issues aren't resolved, you can file with the LTB — and you don't lose your tenancy for doing so.
If you need to leave before your lease ends, you can sublet your unit (landlord approval required but cannot be unreasonably withheld), assign your lease to a new tenant, or negotiate a mutual agreement to end the tenancy. The landlord must mitigate losses — they can't simply hold you liable if they refuse a qualified replacement tenant.
Landlords assess your ability to pay rent reliably. A low debt-to-income ratio signals financial stability. Before applying for a rental, pay down high-interest credit card balances, avoid taking on new car loans, and ensure your total monthly debt obligations are manageable relative to your income.
The LTB adjudicates disputes between landlords and tenants in Ontario. As a tenant, you can file an application for issues like maintenance failures, illegal rent increases, harassment, or illegal entry. Filing does not put you at risk of eviction unless you've violated your lease. Visit tribunalsontario.ca/ltb for forms and information.
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