Rental Season Part 1: What to Know Before You Sign a Lease in Canada

Moving into a new rental is exciting, but signing a lease is a serious legal commitment. A lease is a binding contract, and once you sign, you are agreeing to all of its terms. Before you put pen to paper, here is what you need to know.

Read Everything Before You Sign

This may sound obvious, but many renters sign their lease without reading the full document. Tenant laws vary by province, and landlords may include terms that favour them. Take the time to read every clause and ask questions about anything you do not understand.

Key Terms to Look For

Lease Duration and Renewal

How long is the lease? What happens when it ends — does it automatically renew on a month-to-month basis, or do you need to sign a new one? Understanding the renewal terms is critical to avoiding surprises.

Rent and Deposits

What is the monthly rent, and what deposits are required? Deposit rules vary dramatically across provinces. In Quebec, landlords are prohibited from collecting security deposits entirely. In Ontario, landlords can collect a rent deposit equal to one month's rent, but security deposits are not allowed. Always get a receipt for every deposit you make.

Utilities and Parking

Who is responsible for utilities — you or the landlord? Is parking included? These details should be clearly spelled out in the lease.

Pets and Noise

Are pets allowed? Are there specific noise restrictions? In Ontario, a landlord cannot include a blanket "no pets" clause in a lease, but they can refuse to rent to someone who already has a pet. If you get a pet after moving in, eviction is only possible if the pet causes problems.

Know Your Rights

Safe and Habitable Home

Every Canadian renter has the right to a home that is safe, habitable, and suitable for living. If the property has serious maintenance issues — like a broken furnace in winter or mould — the landlord is obligated to address them.

Protection from Discrimination

Landlords cannot reject your application based on race, colour, religion, age, sex, family status, or disability. If you believe you have been discriminated against, you can file a complaint with your provincial human rights tribunal.

Privacy

Your landlord cannot enter your unit without providing proper notice — typically 24 hours — except in emergencies.

Negotiate Before You Sign

Many renters do not realise that lease terms can be negotiated. You may be able to negotiate lower rent for a longer commitment, an exception for a small pet, reduced upfront payments, or an agreement to maintain landscaping in exchange for other concessions.

Ask Questions

Before signing, ask the landlord or property manager:

How a Personal Legal Service Plan Can Help

A Personal Legal Service Plan gives you access to a lawyer who can review your lease before you sign, explain your rights under provincial law, and help you negotiate terms that work in your favour.