Step-by-Step Guide for Tenants Renting in Ontario
Renting a home or apartment in Ontario can be an exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming process. Whether you’re a first-time renter or moving to a new city, it’s important to understand the steps involved in securing a rental and what you’ll need to prepare before signing a lease. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the rental process in Ontario smoothly.
1. Determine Your Budget
Before you begin searching for rental properties, it’s essential to figure out how much rent you can afford. A general rule of thumb is to allocate about 30% of your income to housing costs. In addition to rent, make sure you account for other expenses, including:
- Utilities: Some rentals include utilities like electricity, water, and heating, while others do not.
- Internet/Cable: Be sure to budget for your internet and cable services.
- Parking Fees: If you have a car, confirm if parking is included or if there is an additional fee.
- Renters Insurance: This insurance protects your belongings and provides liability coverage in case of accidents or damage.
2. Identify Your Must-Have Features
Make a list of what you need in a rental property. Some things to consider include:
- Location: Proximity to work, school, transit, grocery stores, and other amenities.
- Type of Property: Would you prefer an apartment, condo, or house?
- Number of Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Determine how much space you need.
- Pet-Friendly: If you have pets, ensure the property allows them.
- Laundry: Does the unit have in-suite laundry, or is there a shared facility?
3. Start Your Rental Search
Once you know your budget and requirements, start searching for rentals online or through rental agencies. Some popular websites to find rentals in Ontario include:
4. Prepare Required Documents
Landlords in Ontario typically ask for various documents during the application process to ensure you are a reliable tenant. Make sure to have the following ready:
- Government-issued ID: For verification purposes, you will need valid identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
- Proof of Income: Landlords often require proof that you can afford the rent. This may include recent pay stubs, a letter of employment, or bank statements.
- Credit Check: A good credit score shows landlords that you are financially responsible. Some landlords may conduct a credit check, or they may ask you to provide a recent copy of your credit report (available through Equifax or TransUnion).
- References: Landlords may ask for references from previous landlords or employers to assess your rental history and reliability.
- Rental Application Form: Many landlords will ask you to fill out a rental application. This typically includes personal details, employment information, and rental history.
5. Attend Viewings
Once you’ve found a few listings that meet your needs, schedule viewings. When attending a viewing, be sure to:
- Inspect the property carefully: Check for any visible damage, mold, or other issues.
- Ask about utilities and maintenance: Confirm what’s included in the rent (e.g., water, heat, electricity) and who is responsible for maintenance tasks like snow removal or lawn care.
- Check safety features: Ensure there are functioning smoke detectors, locks on windows and doors, and other safety measures in place.
- Clarify terms: Discuss the lease terms, rent price, parking availability, pet policies, and whether or not you can make changes (e.g., painting).
6. Submit Your Rental Application
Once you find a property you love, you’ll need to submit your rental application along with the required documents. The landlord or property manager will review your application, check references, and possibly conduct a credit check. If you’re applying in a competitive market, make sure to submit your application promptly.
7. Sign the Lease
If your rental application is approved, the next step is signing the lease agreement. This is a legally binding contract between you and the landlord. Before you sign, make sure you:
- Read the lease thoroughly: Ensure you understand all the terms, including the rent amount, due date, and lease duration (typically 12 months). Also, review any rules regarding pets, noise, subletting, and guests.
- Confirm rent payment details: Clarify how and when rent is paid (e.g., postdated cheques, e-transfers).
- Check for additional costs: Review any fees for parking, extra storage, or late rent payments.
- Understand your rights: Familiarize yourself with Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, which outlines tenant rights regarding rent increases, eviction procedures, and maintenance.
8. Submit First and Last Month’s Rent
In Ontario, it’s common for landlords to request the first and last month’s rent upon signing the lease. The last month’s rent will be held as a deposit and applied to your final month of tenancy. Ensure you keep a receipt for all payments.
9. Arrange Utilities and Internet
If utilities are not included in the rent, you’ll need to set up accounts with service providers for electricity, water, gas, and internet. Be sure to do this before your move-in date to avoid any interruptions in service.
10. Move In and Conduct a Walkthrough
Before moving in, arrange a final walkthrough of the property with your landlord. Use this opportunity to:
- Document any existing damages: Take photos of the property to record its condition upon move-in. This will protect you from being held responsible for damages when you move out.
- Confirm repairs: If the landlord agreed to any repairs or upgrades, ensure they are completed before you move in.
- Get keys and access codes: Make sure you receive all necessary keys and information for building access (e.g., garage, mailboxes).
11. Get Tenant Insurance
While not mandatory, tenant insurance is highly recommended. It covers your personal belongings in case of damage or theft and provides liability coverage if someone is injured in your rental unit.
12. Know Your Rights as a Tenant
As a tenant in Ontario, you have several rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, including:
- Protection against unreasonable rent increases: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months and must follow guidelines set by the provincial government.
- Right to a safe and well-maintained unit: The landlord must keep the rental property in good repair and ensure it meets safety standards.
- Right to privacy: Landlords must give 24 hours’ notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.
For more information, you can visit the Landlord and Tenant Board’s website or download the “Information for New Tenants” guide.
Final Thoughts Renting a home in Ontario doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. By following these steps, preparing your documents in advance, and understanding your rights as a tenant, you can confidently find the perfect rental property. With thorough research and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to securing a great place to call home.
