Bringing a pet into your Ontario rental can be exciting, but it also raises important questions—especially about what your landlord can and cannot charge. One of the most common concerns is whether a landlord is allowed to require a separate pet deposit. If you have a pet or are considering getting one, here’s what Ontario tenants need to know about deposits, the law, and your rights.

Understanding Deposits for Tenants in Ontario

Under Ontario law, landlords cannot collect a pet deposit for residential units. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 spells out which deposits are permitted and restricts landlords strictly to collecting only a rent deposit, which is typically equal to one month’s rent.

• No separate deposit can be required for having a pet
• The only permitted deposit is a rent deposit (sometimes called "last month’s rent")
• If the landlord requests a pet deposit, you have the right to refuse

Learn more on Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for details on legal deposits in Ontario.

What Does the Law Say About Pets in Rentals?

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 clearly protects tenants by stating:

• Landlords cannot include a 'no pets' clause in leases for most residential units (with some exceptions for condos or where another law prohibits pets)
• Landlords cannot evict or penalize you just for having a pet unless the pet is causing serious problems (e.g., dangerous, causes damage, or is seriously disturbing other tenants)

If Your Landlord Asks for a Pet Deposit

If you’re being asked for a pet deposit, you do not have to pay it. Landlords are permitted to ask for a rent deposit (to be applied to your last month's rent), but separate security or damage deposits—especially for pets—are not legal. If you have already paid a pet deposit, you can request a refund.

Can Landlords Charge Extra for Pets in Any Other Way?

Landlords can only require a rent deposit and cannot charge more rent just because you have a pet—unless you agree to a higher rent when signing the lease. They also cannot require extra regular "pet rent" or a cleaning fee because of your animal.

How Damage Caused by Pets Is Handled

While separate pet deposits aren’t allowed, tenants are still responsible for any damage their pets may cause. If your pet causes damage beyond normal wear and tear, the landlord can seek compensation, but only after the tenancy ends or through the proper legal process.

For information on tenant and landlord obligations around repairs and property damage, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What If the Rental Is a Condominium?

There are some exceptions for condominiums. If the condo corporation has a registered rule prohibiting certain pets, landlords must follow this. Always ask about condo rules if you are renting a condo unit.

Official Forms, Tribunals, and Your Rights

In Ontario, if you have a dispute about illegal deposits or pet restrictions, you can seek help from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), which handles all residential tenancy matters.

How to Address a Pet Deposit Dispute

• Politely remind your landlord about the law and request a refund for any unauthorized pet deposit
• If not resolved, you may apply to the LTB

Key Form:

• T1: Tenant Application About Landlord. Use this to claim back an illegal pet deposit or other money illegally collected. Download the T1 form from the LTB.

Example: If your landlord refuses to refund a pet deposit, fill out a T1 form, attach any receipts or evidence, and submit it to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a hearing. The Board can order the landlord to refund your money.

Resources and Further Reading

• Tenant Rights in Ontario
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

By understanding these rules, Ontario tenants can confidently navigate rental agreements—especially when pets are part of the family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord ask for a pet deposit in Ontario?
   No, landlords cannot request or keep a separate pet deposit in Ontario. Only a rent deposit is allowed.
2. What should I do if I've already paid a pet deposit?
   You can ask your landlord to refund it. If they refuse, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using the T1 form.
3. Can I be evicted for having a pet?
   Generally no, unless your pet is causing significant problems (damage, danger, or serious nuisance). "No pets" clauses are void in most Ontario leases.
4. What happens if my pet damages the rental unit?
   You may be responsible for the cost to repair damages, but the landlord must apply to the Board or use the deposit (if it's last month’s rent at the end of tenancy).

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Ontario law does not allow separate pet deposits
• Landlords can only collect a rent deposit (e.g., last month's rent)
• If a pet deposit is demanded or kept, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a refund

Knowing your rights helps you have a safer and fairer rental experience with your pet in Ontario.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Official Information and Complaint Forms
• Ontario Government – Renting in Ontario: Your Rights
• Tenant support organizations in many cities offer advice on deposits and pet issues
• Learn more about Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, S.O. 2006, c. 17. Read the full Act here.
2. Landlord and Tenant Board Ontario. Visit the LTB.
3. Official Ontario Government Guidance: Your Rights as a Tenant.

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