After You Move-In

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, you, as a tenant have the right to privacy in the accommodation that you are renting.

Generally, the landlord needs your consent before entering the rented dwelling. Only in the case of an emergency (eg. fire, burst water main) or if there is a written clause in the tenancy agreement that allows the landlord to enter, may he/she do so.

The landlord must also provide you with:

  • 24 hours written notice
  • a specific time/date he/she plans to enter the dwelling
  • reason for entry
  • must enter between the hours of 8:00am and 8:00pm

It is important to note that there are a few Exceptions:

  • In the event of an emergency (fire, water main burst)
  • If there is a written agreement that allows the landlord to enter on a specific time frame (cleaning provided every 2 weeks)
  • A Notice of Termination has been given – to show unit to potential tenants

Change of Locks

Neither a landlord nor a tenant can change the lock on any door giving entry to the dwelling without consent from the other.

If the accommodation that you are renting is not fully self-contained, you should make yourself aware of the house rules that your landlord wishes to have followed. Be sure that the house rules are mutually agreed upon.

Repairs and Maintenance

Landlords must keep dwellings in good repair and fit for living in, regardless of the condition when the tenant moves in. They must also comply with all health, safety and housing standards set by law.

You, as a tenant, must keep the dwellings clean, unless the tenancy agreement makes it the landlord’s responsibility. You are responsible for any damage you or your guests cause, whether it was deliberate or by accident.

If the dwelling is not maintained by your landlord, you can ask the Ontario Court of Justice to

  • order the landlord to properly maintain the dwelling or make necessary repairs
  • grant a temporary reduction in your rent – called an abatement.

Emergency Repairs

In an emergency, and if your landlord cannot be contacted you may have to pay the immediate cost of repairs. Keep all receipts for repayment from your landlord.

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, the landlord is responsible for normal wear and tear, and you, as a tenant, are responsible for damages.

Remember that you are also responsible for keeping your dwelling clean and for any damages caused. Failure to do so may result in termination of your tenancy by the landlord.

Ending Tenancy

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, you are not obligated to move out of your rented dwelling simply because your tenancy or lease has come to an end.

If you or your landlord want to end a tenancy a Notice of Termination must be given. It must:

  • be in writing
  • identify the dwelling
  • specify the termination date
  • be signed by the person giving the notice

You are not required to provide a reason for the termination of your tenancy, however, your landlord must:

  • state a detailed reasons for ending the tenancy

A landlord can terminate your tenancy for certain reasons. They include:

  • Failure to pay rent
  • Causing damage to the rental property
  • Disturbing the enjoyment of the space for other tenants or the landlord
  • Overcrowding – allowing too many people to live in the unit
  • Affecting the safety of others
  • Illegal activity
  • Animals, pets – presence of the pet disturbs others or causes damage to the property

If you and your landlord mutually agree in writing to end a tenancy on a specific date, a Notice of Termination is not needed.

If you pay rent weekly, you must give 28 days notice to the landlord. If you pay rent monthly, you must give 60 days notice to the landlord