5 Essential Facts About Leases for Ontario Tenants

Leases & Agreements Ontario published July 01, 2025 Flag of Ontario

Signing a lease or rental agreement can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time tenants in Ontario. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential to protect yourself and avoid costly mistakes. In this guide, we break down the five most important things Ontario tenants should know before, during, and after signing a lease. These essentials will help ensure a secure and fair rental experience under Ontario law.

1. Standard Lease Agreement: What It Means for You

In Ontario, almost all residential tenancies require a Standard Lease (also called the Residential Tenancy Agreement). This document clearly outlines the rules, rights, and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords.

  • Who must use it: Most private rental units, including apartments, condos, single-family homes, and secondary suites.
  • Where to find it: The Ontario government provides this lease in multiple languages. See the official Standard Lease template.
  • Key sections: Rent amount, deposit details, rules for guests, repairs, and ending the tenancy are all included.

If your landlord asks you to sign a different agreement, double-check that it meets Ontario's rules. The Standard Lease protects your rights even if your landlord uses a different form.

2. Deposits: What Can a Landlord Legally Ask For?

In Ontario, landlords can only request a rent deposit (sometimes called "last month's rent") when you sign a lease. They cannot ask for a damage deposit or key deposit. Before paying any money, make sure you understand what's allowed under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1].

To learn more about legal deposits and what to expect, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Rent Rules: Amount, Payment, and Increases

Your lease must state exactly how much rent you will pay, how often, and by what method. Rent is generally due monthly on a set date. Ontario landlords can only raise the rent once every 12 months, and they must give 90 days' written notice using the correct form.

For more details about paying, increasing, and disputing rent amounts, check out Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

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4. Responsibilities and Repairs: Who Does What?

Both tenants and landlords have important duties outlined by Ontario law:

  • Landlords must keep the rental unit in a good state of repair and comply with health, safety, and housing standards.
  • Tenants are expected to keep the unit reasonably clean, avoid damaging property, and promptly notify their landlord about any issues.

For a deeper dive into your rights and responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Tip: If your landlord isn't making necessary repairs, you can make an application to the Landlord and Tenant Board to resolve the issue.

5. What Happens After You Sign?

Once you've signed your lease, you officially become a tenant with legal rights and protections. You are entitled to quiet enjoyment of your home, proper notice before landlord entry, and due process if your landlord wants to end your tenancy. If you have questions or issues after moving in, check What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Understanding these essentials helps Ontario tenants avoid disputes and enjoy a smooth rental experience.

For more detailed information about your rights in the province, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Want to explore your options? Browse apartments for rent in Canada today.

FAQ: Leases & Agreements in Ontario

  1. Do landlords have to use the Standard Lease in Ontario?
    Yes, landlords are required to use Ontario's Standard Lease for most new rental agreements. If they do not, tenants can request one in writing, and landlords must provide it within 21 days.
  2. What deposits can my landlord legally ask for?
    Landlords in Ontario can only collect a rent deposit (usually for the last month's rent), not a damage deposit. Deposits for keys are only permitted if the amount does not exceed the landlord's cost to replace them.
  3. How can I challenge an illegal rent increase?
    If your landlord increases your rent above the legal guideline or without proper notice, you can file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board using the appropriate forms. Respond promptly and keep copies of all written notices.
  4. Are verbal rental agreements valid in Ontario?
    Verbal agreements are legal but not recommended. A written lease protects both parties and is easier to enforce if disputes arise. The Standard Lease is best practice.
  5. Where can I get help resolving a lease dispute?
    The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario handles tenancy issues, including disputes about leases, rent, repairs, and evictions. Free legal clinics are also available in most communities.

How To: Navigating Lease Questions in Ontario

  1. How to request an official Standard Lease from your landlord
    Write to your landlord and ask for Ontario's Standard Lease. If they do not provide it within 21 days, you can withhold up to one month's rent until you receive it (provided your tenancy began on or after April 30, 2018).
  2. How to dispute an illegal rent deposit
    If a landlord demands any form of deposit other than a rent deposit, notify them in writing this is not allowed. If they persist, file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
  3. How to respond to a Notice of Rent Increase (Form N1)
    Carefully review the notice to ensure it's given at least 90 days in advance and within the annual rent increase guideline. If you believe the increase is not legal, file an application to the Landlord and Tenant Board before the new rate takes effect.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario)
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario
  3. Official Standard Lease form and guide
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.