Ontario Home Intel
Menu

Category: Landlords & Tenants

Ontario landlord and tenant guides covering leases, rent, notices, rental property responsibilities and Landlord and Tenant Board processes.

  • How to Screen Tenants Legally in Ontario

    How to Screen Tenants Legally in Ontario

    Ontario Tenant Screening Guide · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Power Digital Marketing on Unsplash.

    Landlords can screen prospective tenants in Ontario, but the process must comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code. The safest approach is a consistent, documented process that evaluates legitimate tenancy-related factors without discriminating based on protected characteristics.

    Information a Landlord May Consider

    Ontario Human Rights Commission guidance recognizes rental history, credit references, credit checks, income information and guarantees as possible screening tools when used lawfully.

    Do Not Treat No Credit History as Bad Credit

    A lack of rental or credit history should not automatically be treated negatively. Newcomers, young applicants and people returning to the workforce may have limited history without being poor tenancy risks.

    Income Information Has Special Rules

    OHRC guidance states that income information should generally be requested and considered together with available rental history, credit references and credit checks. Landlords should not rely on arbitrary rent-to-income cutoffs such as a blanket 30% rule.

    Protected Grounds Matter

    Housing decisions cannot be based on prohibited grounds under the Human Rights Code. Examples can include race, ancestry, place of origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family status, marital status, disability, age and receipt of public assistance.

    Build a Consistent Screening Process

    • Use the same application form and core criteria for all applicants.
    • Obtain consent before running credit checks.
    • Verify references consistently.
    • Consider the full picture rather than a single arbitrary ratio.
    • Document objective reasons for the final decision.
    • Protect applicant personal information.
    • Avoid discriminatory rental ads or questions.

    Choosing Tenant Screening Services

    This guide focuses on the legal screening process and criteria, rather than comparing individual providers. For current free and paid options, pricing, report features and public-record research resources, see our dedicated Best Tenant Screening Services in Ontario comparison.

    Important: Obtain the applicant’s permission before conducting a credit check. Screening criteria should be applied consistently and in a bona fide, non-discriminatory way. The Ontario Human Rights Commission states that landlords may request rental history, credit references and credit checks, but a lack of rental or credit history should not automatically be viewed negatively. Income information is also subject to specific human-rights rules. Read the OHRC rental-housing policy →

    Guarantors and Co-Signers

    Guarantees may be considered, but automatically demanding a guarantor from certain groups can create human-rights concerns. Apply policies consistently and obtain legal advice if a screening rule may disproportionately exclude a protected group.

    Read the Ontario Human Rights Commission rental-housing policy and our Ontario Landlords & Tenants hub.

    Compare screening providers: See our new Best Tenant Screening Services in Ontario guide for a side-by-side comparison of free and paid options.

    Tenant Screening FAQ

    Can an Ontario landlord run a credit check?

    Yes, credit checks and credit references can be used as part of a lawful screening process, but they must be applied consistently and without discrimination.

    Can a landlord reject someone only because their income is below a fixed ratio?

    Ontario Human Rights Commission guidance says arbitrary rent-to-income ratios can create human-rights concerns and should not be used as a blanket screening rule.

    Free Ontario Tenant Screening Checklist

    Use a consistent step-by-step screening process. Get the free printable checklist by email.

    Get the Free Checklist →

    Common questions about this topic

    Browse all 50 rental questions →

    General information only: Human-rights compliance is fact-specific. Landlords should obtain legal advice when designing screening rules or handling a discrimination complaint.

  • Landlord Repairs and Maintenance Responsibilities in Ontario

    Landlord Repairs and Maintenance Responsibilities in Ontario

    Ontario Rental Repairs & Maintenance Guide · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Olek Buzunov on Unsplash.

    Ontario landlords generally have a duty to maintain rental properties in a good state of repair and comply with applicable health, safety, housing and maintenance standards. Tenants also have responsibilities, particularly for cleanliness and undue damage they or their guests cause.

    What the Landlord Is Generally Responsible For

    Landlords are typically responsible for maintaining core building systems and repairing ordinary wear, defects and failures that are not caused by tenant negligence or intentional damage. Depending on the property, this can include plumbing, heating, electrical systems, appliances included with the tenancy, doors, windows and common areas.

    What the Tenant Is Responsible For

    Tenants are expected to keep the rental unit reasonably clean and can be responsible for repairing or paying for undue damage caused by the tenant, occupants or guests. Ordinary wear and tear is different from negligent or intentional damage.

    A Lease Cannot Simply Shift Every Repair to the Tenant

    Ontario’s Standard Lease guide notes that terms requiring tenants to pay for repairs that are legally the landlord’s responsibility may be void. A signed clause does not automatically override the Residential Tenancies Act.

    How Tenants Should Report Problems

    • Notify the landlord promptly.
    • Use written communication for significant issues.
    • Include photos or videos where useful.
    • Keep a record of dates, responses and repair attempts.
    • Report emergencies immediately.

    How Landlords Should Manage Repairs

    • Acknowledge repair requests promptly.
    • Prioritize health and safety issues.
    • Use qualified trades where required.
    • Give lawful entry notice unless an exception applies.
    • Document work orders, invoices and communications.
    • Follow municipal property standards as well as provincial tenancy law.

    What If Repairs Are Not Done?

    Tenants may have remedies through the Landlord and Tenant Board and, depending on the issue, through municipal property-standards enforcement. Tenants should not simply stop paying rent because a repair dispute exists; rent and maintenance remedies are handled through specific legal processes.

    See the Ontario Standard Lease guide and our Landlords & Tenants hub.

    Repairs & Maintenance FAQ

    Can a lease make the tenant responsible for every repair?

    No. Terms that try to transfer a landlord’s statutory repair obligations to a tenant may be unenforceable.

    Should a tenant stop paying rent if repairs are not done?

    Generally no. Repair disputes and rent obligations are handled through specific legal processes. Tenants should document the issue and use the appropriate LTB or municipal process.

    Common questions about this topic

    Browse all 50 rental questions →

    General information only: Maintenance obligations can depend on the property and facts. For serious disputes, consult Tribunals Ontario, municipal enforcement or an appropriate legal professional.

  • When Can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit in Ontario?

    When Can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit in Ontario?

    Ontario Landlord Entry Rules · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash.

    Ontario law gives tenants privacy rights while also allowing landlords to enter rental units in specific circumstances. The rules depend on why the landlord is entering.

    Entry With 24 Hours’ Written Notice

    A landlord may enter for certain lawful reasons after giving at least 24 hours’ written notice. Common examples include making repairs, carrying out a reasonable inspection to determine whether repairs are needed, allowing a potential purchaser, mortgagee or insurer to view the unit, and other reasonable reasons identified in the tenancy agreement.

    What the Notice Should Say

    The notice should state the reason for entry, the date and a time of entry between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Vague notices or repeated notices that do not reflect a genuine purpose can create disputes.

    Entry Without the Usual Written Notice

    Written notice is not always required. Examples include emergencies, where the tenant consents at the time of entry, certain agreed housekeeping arrangements, and some showings to prospective tenants after a tenancy is ending. The specific statutory conditions still matter.

    Showing a Unit to Buyers

    A landlord, or an authorized registered real estate professional, may enter to allow a potential purchaser to view the unit after proper written notice. Selling a property does not eliminate the tenant’s privacy rights.

    Practical Steps for Landlords

    • Use written notices that clearly identify the lawful reason.
    • Give at least 24 hours where required.
    • Use a specific time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
    • Avoid unnecessary or excessive entries.
    • Keep copies of notices and records of entry.
    • Coordinate real-estate showings with the tenancy rules.

    Practical Steps for Tenants

    • Read the reason, date and time on the notice.
    • Remember that a tenant does not generally have to be home for a properly noticed lawful entry.
    • Document repeated or improper entries.
    • Use the LTB process if there is a serious privacy dispute.

    Read the Residential Tenancies Act and our Ontario Landlords & Tenants hub.

    Landlord Entry FAQ

    Does a landlord always need 24 hours’ notice?

    No. Emergencies, tenant consent and certain other situations can allow entry without the usual written notice. For many routine entries, at least 24 hours’ written notice is required.

    Can a landlord enter when the tenant is not home?

    Yes, if the entry is lawful and the required notice has been given. The tenant does not generally need to be present.

    Common questions about this topic

    Browse all 50 rental questions →

    General information only: Entry rights can depend on the circumstances. Verify current legal requirements before entering or refusing entry.

  • Ontario Rent Increases and Rent Control: 2026 Guide

    Ontario Rent Increases and Rent Control: 2026 Guide

    Ontario Rent Increase & Rent Control Guide · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Aaron Lefler on Unsplash.

    Ontario limits how often and, for many rental units, how much rent can be increased during a tenancy. For 2026, the provincial rent increase guideline is 2.1% for most rent-controlled units.

    The 12-Month Rule

    In most cases, at least 12 months must have passed since the tenant moved in or since the last lawful rent increase before another increase can take effect.

    The 90-Day Notice Rule

    A landlord generally must give at least 90 days’ written notice using the proper Landlord and Tenant Board form before a rent increase takes effect.

    2026 Guideline: 2.1%

    The guideline is the maximum increase most landlords can apply without LTB approval where the guideline applies. For example, a lawful monthly rent of $2,000 would increase by $42 at 2.1%, to $2,042, assuming all other legal requirements are satisfied.

    Post-November 15, 2018 Exemptions

    The guideline generally does not apply to certain new buildings, additions and many new basement units first occupied for residential purposes after November 15, 2018. The exact exemption can be fact-specific, and a landlord may need records proving when the unit or relevant space was first occupied.

    A Lease Ending Does Not Automatically Allow a Rent Reset

    When a fixed-term lease ends and the same tenant remains, the tenancy commonly continues rather than allowing the landlord to simply set a new market rent. Rent-increase rules still apply.

    Above-Guideline Increases

    In certain circumstances, a landlord may apply to the LTB for an above-guideline increase. This is a formal process and should not be confused with an ordinary annual guideline increase. See our detailed Ontario Above-Guideline Increase (AGI) guide for qualifying categories, documentation and the L5 process.

    Records Matter

    • Keep copies of rent-increase notices and proof of service.
    • Record the effective date of every increase.
    • Keep documents supporting any claimed post-2018 exemption.
    • Retain building permits, occupancy records or construction documents where relevant.

    See the Government of Ontario rent-increase page and our Landlords & Tenants hub.

    Ontario Rent Increase FAQ

    What is Ontario’s 2026 rent increase guideline?

    The 2026 guideline is 2.1% for most rent-controlled units, provided the landlord also follows the timing and notice requirements.

    Are all Ontario rentals rent controlled?

    No. Certain newer units first occupied for residential purposes after November 15, 2018 can be exempt from the annual guideline.

    General information only: Rent-control exemptions and increase disputes can turn on specific facts. Verify current rules with the LTB or obtain legal advice before acting.

  • Rental Deposits in Ontario: What Landlords Can and Cannot Collect

    Rental Deposits in Ontario: What Landlords Can and Cannot Collect

    Ontario Rental Deposit Guide · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Aaron Lefler on Unsplash.

    Ontario tightly regulates deposits connected to residential tenancies. A landlord generally cannot create extra “security” charges simply because they appear in a lease or rental application.

    Last Month’s Rent Deposit

    A landlord may require a rent deposit on or before entering into the tenancy agreement. The amount cannot exceed the lesser of one month’s rent and one rental period. For a monthly tenancy, that normally means no more than one month’s rent.

    What Is the Deposit For?

    The rent deposit is applied to the final rent period before the tenancy ends. It is not a general damage deposit and should not be treated as a pool of money for cleaning, repairs or unpaid utility bills.

    Damage and Pet Deposits

    Ontario’s Standard Lease guide states that tenants do not have to provide deposits such as pet or damage deposits. A lease term attempting to require a prohibited deposit may be unenforceable even if both sides signed the document.

    Key Deposits

    A refundable key deposit may be permitted, but it should reflect the expected replacement cost of the keys or access device rather than operate as an additional security deposit.

    Interest on the Rent Deposit

    The Residential Tenancies Act contains rules requiring annual interest on a rent deposit. The deposit may also need to be topped up when lawful rent increases. Landlords should keep clear records so the amount and any interest adjustment can be reconciled correctly.

    Can a Tenant Voluntarily Prepay Rent?

    Prepaid rent can raise separate legal questions from a landlord-required security deposit. Landlords should be cautious about making large prepayments a condition of approval and should obtain legal advice where the arrangement is unusual.

    Quick Checklist

    • Do not require a damage deposit.
    • Do not require a pet deposit.
    • Keep last-month-rent deposits within the statutory limit.
    • Use rent deposits only for the last rent period.
    • Keep key deposits reasonable and refundable.
    • Provide receipts when required.
    • Keep records of deposit interest and lawful rent changes.

    Read the Ontario Standard Lease guide and explore our Landlords & Tenants hub.

    Ontario Rental Deposit FAQ

    Can an Ontario landlord charge a damage deposit?

    Generally no. Ontario restricts security deposits and the standard lease guide specifically identifies damage deposits as not permitted.

    What is a last month’s rent deposit used for?

    It is applied to the final rent period before the tenancy ends, not to general repairs or damage.

    Common questions about this topic

    Browse all 50 rental questions →

    General information only: Rental deposit disputes can be fact-specific. Confirm current rules with the Government of Ontario or Tribunals Ontario.

  • Ontario Standard Lease: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

    Ontario Standard Lease: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

    Ontario Standard Lease Guide · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash.

    Ontario’s Standard Form of Lease is required for most residential tenancy agreements signed on or after April 30, 2018. It creates a written contract between landlord and tenant and summarizes many key rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act.

    When Is the Standard Lease Required?

    It applies to most private residential rentals, including many rented houses, apartments, condominiums and basement apartments. Some specialized housing types are excluded, including certain care homes, mobile-home and land-lease arrangements, co-operative housing and some social or supportive housing.

    What Does the Lease Cover?

    The form covers the parties, rental unit, term, rent, services and utilities, rent discounts, deposits, key deposits, smoking, tenant insurance, changes to the unit, maintenance and repairs, assignment and subletting, additional terms and signatures. Related practical issues include parking rules and smoking and cannabis rules in Ontario rentals.

    Additional Terms Have Limits

    Landlords and tenants can add terms that are specific to the tenancy, but a term that attempts to remove a right or responsibility established by the Residential Tenancies Act may be void. The provincial guide specifically identifies examples such as blanket no-pet clauses, rules banning guests or roommates, illegal damage deposits and clauses requiring tenants to pay for repairs that are legally the landlord’s responsibility. For those common issues, see our guides to pets in Ontario rentals and roommates, guests and additional occupants.

    Pets, Condominiums and Extra Rules

    A lease clause that simply says “no pets” is generally not enforceable under the RTA. However, other laws or condominium declarations and rules can matter. A condominium corporation may have restrictions that affect a tenant even where an ordinary landlord-created no-pet clause would not be enforceable.

    Tenant Insurance

    The Standard Lease allows the parties to agree that the tenant will carry liability insurance. If the lease requires it, the landlord may request proof of coverage. Contents insurance for the tenant’s own belongings is separate. Our Ontario tenant-insurance guide explains the issue in more detail.

    Assignment and Subletting

    The Standard Lease notes that a tenant generally needs the landlord’s permission to assign or sublet the unit, and that consent cannot be arbitrarily or unreasonably withheld. Assignment and subletting have different legal effects, so tenants should understand which process applies before moving someone else in or transferring a tenancy.

    Landlord Checklist

    • Use the current Ontario Standard Lease when required.
    • Identify all landlords and tenants correctly.
    • Clearly state lawful rent, parking, utilities and included services.
    • Do not insert terms that conflict with the RTA.
    • Provide the tenant with a copy after signing.
    • Keep the signed lease and amendments with the tenancy file.

    Tenant Checklist

    • Read the entire lease before signing.
    • Confirm what utilities, parking and services are included.
    • Review every additional term.
    • Keep a complete signed copy.
    • Question clauses that appear to remove statutory rights.

    See the Government of Ontario Standard Lease guide and our Ontario Landlords & Tenants hub.

    Ontario Standard Lease FAQ

    Is the Ontario Standard Lease mandatory?

    It is required for most private residential tenancy agreements covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, subject to specific exceptions for certain specialized housing types.

    Can a landlord add extra terms?

    Yes, but an added term that conflicts with the Residential Tenancies Act may be void and unenforceable.

    Common questions about this topic

    Browse all 50 rental questions →

    General information only: This is not legal advice. Verify the current form and requirements with the Government of Ontario and obtain legal advice for a specific dispute or lease term.

  • Becoming a Landlord in Ontario: A 2026 Guide

    Becoming a Landlord in Ontario: A 2026 Guide

    Becoming a Landlord in Ontario · Updated for 2026

    Featured photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash.

    Renting out a home, condominium or additional residential unit in Ontario creates legal and practical responsibilities. Before advertising a unit, a prospective landlord should understand provincial tenancy rules as well as any municipal zoning, licensing, building and fire-safety requirements that apply to the property.

    1. Confirm the Unit Can Legally Be Rented

    Do not assume that an existing basement apartment, converted garage or accessory dwelling is legally established. Review zoning, building permits, applicable fire and electrical requirements, parking and servicing. Start with our municipality guides and zoning and permit resources.

    2. Understand the Residential Tenancies Act

    Most residential landlord-and-tenant relationships in Ontario are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, although exemptions exist. The legislation addresses matters including rent, deposits, maintenance, entry, termination notices and applications to the Landlord and Tenant Board.

    3. Use the Ontario Standard Lease When Required

    Most private residential tenancies covered by the legislation require Ontario’s standard form of lease. Additional terms can sometimes be included, but terms that conflict with applicable legislation may not be enforceable.

    4. Know the Rules for Deposits

    Ontario has specific rules governing rent deposits and key deposits. A landlord should understand what can legally be collected, how a rent deposit must be applied and the rules concerning interest before accepting money from an applicant or tenant.

    5. Screen Applicants Consistently

    A landlord may evaluate prospective tenants, but screening practices must comply with Ontario human-rights requirements. Develop a consistent application process and document the criteria used rather than making decisions based on protected personal characteristics. See how to screen tenants legally in Ontario, then compare free and paid Ontario tenant-screening services.

    6. Understand Rent Control and Rent Increases

    Whether the annual rent-increase guideline applies can depend on the rental unit and when it was first occupied for residential purposes. Notice requirements and timing rules also apply. Do not increase rent simply because a lease term has ended. Review the Ontario rent-increase and rent-control guide and, where relevant, the separate rules for above-guideline rent increases.

    7. Budget for the Real Cost of Being a Landlord

    Rental income is only one side of the calculation. Consider mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, condominium fees, utilities, maintenance, capital repairs and periods of vacancy. Review our guides to landlord insurance in Ontario and utilities in Ontario rentals, and discuss the appropriate rental-property coverage with an insurer before the tenancy begins.

    8. Know Your Maintenance Responsibilities

    Landlords generally have obligations to maintain rental properties in a good state of repair and comply with applicable health, safety, housing and maintenance standards. A lease clause cannot simply transfer every statutory responsibility to a tenant.

    9. Learn the Rules Before Entering a Rental Unit

    Ontario law regulates when and how a landlord may enter a rental unit. Some circumstances require advance written notice while specific exceptions permit entry without the usual notice. Learn the applicable rule before entering.

    10. Learn the LTB Process Before You Need It

    Landlords cannot simply remove a tenant or change the locks because rent is unpaid or a dispute occurs. Ontario uses prescribed notices and Landlord and Tenant Board processes. Using the wrong notice, termination date or procedure can delay an application.

    Landlord Startup Checklist

    • Confirm zoning and legal status of the rental unit.
    • Confirm required permits, inspections and municipal licensing, plus practical property rules such as rental parking and smoking or cannabis restrictions where relevant.
    • Review insurance coverage.
    • Understand the Standard Lease.
    • Create a lawful and consistent tenant-screening process and follow Ontario rental-advertising human-rights rules.
    • Learn deposit and rent rules before collecting funds.
    • Document the property’s condition at move-in.
    • Keep organized tenancy, payment and maintenance records.
    • Understand entry and maintenance obligations.
    • Use current official LTB notices and instructions when necessary.

    Becoming a Landlord in Ontario FAQ

    Do I need a licence to become a landlord in Ontario?

    Ontario does not have one universal provincial landlord licence, but some municipalities require rental licensing or registration for certain properties. Check the municipality before renting the unit.

    Can I rent out an unapproved basement apartment?

    Do not assume an existing unit is legal. Zoning, building, fire, electrical, parking and servicing requirements may need to be satisfied before the unit can be lawfully rented.

    Free Ontario Tenant Screening Checklist

    Starting a tenancy? Use our printable screening checklist to organize applicant criteria, verification, references, privacy and move-in preparation.

    Get the Free Checklist →

    Related guides: Ontario Standard Lease · Tenant Screening · Rent Increases & Rent Control

    Explore Landlord Resources Open Ontario Rental Tools

    Important: This guide provides general educational information, not legal advice. Ontario tenancy rules and procedures can change and individual circumstances matter. Verify current requirements with the Government of Ontario, Tribunals Ontario, your municipality and an appropriate legal professional where necessary.