The Complete Rental Guide
Everything you need to know about renting in Canada, from finding your perfect place to understanding your rights as a tenant.
Getting Started
A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent.
- Calculate your monthly budget including utilities
- Factor in first and last month's rent deposit
- Set aside money for moving costs and furniture
- Consider transportation costs to work/school
Preparation is key to finding the right rental quickly.
- Start your search 2-3 months before your move date
- List your must-haves and nice-to-haves
- Research neighborhoods and amenities
- Prepare your rental application documents
Finding a Rental
Online Listings
Realtor.ca, Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist
Real Estate Agents
Work with agents who specialize in rentals
Walk Around
Look for "For Rent" signs in desired neighborhoods
Word of Mouth
Ask friends, family, and colleagues
Classified Ads
Check local newspapers and community boards
Property Management
Contact companies directly about vacancies
- Requests for money upfront: Be wary of deposits before viewing
- Too good to be true: Suspiciously low rent for the area
- Pressure tactics: Rushed decisions or "apply now" urgency
- No physical viewing: Landlord refuses in-person tours
- Poor communication: Unprofessional or evasive responses
- No written agreement: Verbal-only lease arrangements
- Water pressure: Test all faucets and showers
- Outlets and lights: Ensure all are working
- Storage space: Check closets and storage areas
- Signs of pests: Look for droppings or damage
- Security: Check locks on doors and windows
- Noise levels: Visit at different times of day
Application Process
Proof of Income
Pay stubs, employment letter, or tax returns
Identification
Government-issued ID or passport
References
Previous landlords and personal references
Credit Report
Recent credit check or score
In most provinces, landlords can charge reasonable fees for credit and reference checks:
- Typical fee: $15-$50 per application
- Fee should cover actual costs only
- Get a receipt for any fees paid
- Be wary of unusually high application fees
- Be professional: Dress well and communicate clearly
- Provide a rental resume: Include employment and rental history
- Offer strong references: From previous landlords and employers
- Be responsive: Reply quickly to landlord questions
- Show stability: Demonstrate reliable income and employment
Understanding Your Lease
Fixed-Term Lease
Set start and end dates (typically 12 months). Rent amount is locked for the term.
Best for: Those who want stability and predictable rent costs.
Month-to-Month Tenancy
No fixed end date. Either party can end with proper notice (usually 60 days).
Best for: Those who need flexibility or are unsure of long-term plans.
Periodic Tenancy
Continues automatically after fixed term expires (becomes month-to-month in most provinces).
Best for: Continuing tenants who don't want to sign a new lease.
Rent Amount and Due Date
When rent is due each month and acceptable payment methods. Late fees (if applicable).
Security Deposit
Amount required (varies by province, typically up to one month's rent). Conditions for return.
Maintenance Responsibilities
What landlord maintains vs. tenant responsibilities. How to report repairs.
Occupancy Rules
Who can live in the unit. Guest policies and subletting restrictions.
Termination Clauses
Notice periods required. Penalties for breaking lease early.
Rules and Restrictions
Pets, smoking, noise policies. Any building-specific rules.
Moving In
Before Move-In Day
- Complete move-in inspection with landlord
- Take photos/videos of unit condition
- Test all appliances and utilities
- Document any existing damage
First Week Tasks
- Set up utilities in your name
- Arrange renter's insurance
- Update your address with relevant parties
- Get to know your neighbors
Living as a Tenant
- Pay rent on time every month
- Keep the unit clean and sanitary
- Report maintenance issues promptly
- Respect other tenants and neighbors
- Follow building rules and bylaws
Ending Your Tenancy
Most provinces require at least 60 days written notice for month-to-month tenancies. Check your provincial laws for specific requirements.
Moving Out Checklist
- Give proper written notice
- Clean the unit thoroughly
- Repair any damage you caused
- Schedule move-out inspection
- Return all keys and access cards
Know Your Rights
Right to Privacy
Landlords must provide notice before entering (typically 24 hours)
Right to Repairs
Landlord must maintain the property in good condition
Protection from Discrimination
Cannot be discriminated against based on protected grounds
Right to Security Deposit Return
Deposit must be returned within specified timeframe if no damage
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Find Your Perfect Rental?
Browse available rental properties in your area and start your search today.