Getting Started.

Rental Agreements Made Simple  

A rental agreement, also known as a lease or tenancy agreement, is a legal contract between you and your rental housing provider. Since 2018, Ontario has required a standardized rental agreement, ensuring clarity on terms like rent amount, payment schedule, and included amenities (e.g., parking, utilities). 

Your Rights as a Tenant 

1. Length of Tenancy 
   You can stay in your rental unit until you provide notice to move out or your rental housing provider issues a notice for reasons allowed under the law (e.g., personal use, family use, or property sale). 

2. Privacy 
   Rental housing providers must give 24 hours' written notice to enter your unit, except in emergencies or with your permission. 

3. Maintenance 
   Your provider must maintain the unit and property, ensuring everything meets health, safety, and maintenance standards (e.g., plumbing, locks, walkways). 

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant 

1. Pay Rent on Time 
   Late or unpaid rent can result in the termination of your tenancy. 

2. Maintain Cleanliness 
   Keep the unit in good condition and avoid causing damage beyond normal wear and tear. 

3. Other Responsibilities 
   Avoid changing locks without permission and never withhold rent. 

Understanding Rent Control 

Most rental units are subject to annual rent increases based on the Rent Increase Guideline, with exceptions for: 

• New units first occupied after November 15, 2018. 

• Units where significant work justifies a higher increase (approved by the Landlord and Tenant Board). 

Rental housing providers must give 90 days' written notice before increasing rent and can do so only once per year. 

Resolving Issues

Resolving Issues

• Mediation: For disputes, mediation through the Landlord and Tenant Board can be a faster, less formal alternative to hearings. A neutral moderator helps both parties reach an agreement. 

• Formal Hearings: If mediation doesn’t resolve the issue, a hearing may follow. 

Ending a Tenancy 

1. Giving Notice 
   If you’re on a month-to-month lease or nearing the end of your fixed-term lease, provide 60 days' written notice to your rental housing provider. 

2. Subletting or Assigning 
   If your provider doesn’t agree to early termination, you can sublet or assign the unit to another tenant. Subletting keeps you responsible for the lease, while assignment transfers all responsibilities to the new tenant. 

When a Rental Housing Provider Can End Your Tenancy 

1. Personal Use 
   The unit is needed for the landlord’s personal use, a family member, or a buyer of the property. 

2. Renovations 
   The unit requires critical renovations, demolition, or repairs. In these cases, you have the right of first refusal to return to the unit after renovations are complete.