Reading your lease in Ontario

The standard lease

Most private landlords in Ontario must use the province's standard lease form. If your landlord does not give you one, you can ask for it in writing.

Check before you sign

• The names of everyone on the lease, and the landlord's legal name and address.
• The rent, the day it is due, and what is included: heat, water, electricity, parking.
• The start date and whether the lease is for a fixed term or month to month.
• Rules about smoking, pets and tenant insurance.

Deposits

In Ontario a landlord can ask for a rent deposit of up to one month's rent, used for your last month. A damage deposit is not allowed, but a landlord may ask for a refundable key deposit. The landlord must pay you interest on the rent deposit every year. See our guide to deposits by province for other provinces.

Keep a copy

Keep a signed copy of the lease and receipts for every payment. Take dated photos of the unit on the day you move in.