When roommates sign a rental agreement in Ontario, a landlord may ask for a guarantor or co-signer to reduce risk if income or credit is limited. Tenants should know what a guarantor agrees to, how long they can be responsible for unpaid rent or damage, and what paperwork or official forms could be used by a landlord if a dispute arises. This guide explains common responsibilities, how to protect yourself as a tenant or guarantor, and the official places to get forms or file an application. If you need to find alternative rental options quickly while sorting guarantor issues, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
How guarantors and co-signers work in Ontario
A guarantor (sometimes called a co-signer) signs a promise to cover the tenant’s obligations under the lease, typically rent and property damage. The guarantor does not usually gain occupation rights, but they do accept financial liability. Landlords may ask for a guarantor when a tenant has limited rental history, low income, or poor credit. The province’s dispute body for residential tenancy issues is the Landlord and Tenant Board[1], and disputes are decided under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2].
Key responsibilities a guarantor may accept
- Agree to pay unpaid rent or arrears if the tenant cannot pay.
- Cover costs for damage beyond normal wear and tear charged to the tenant.
- Be bound by the terms of the written rental agreement or lease if the guarantor signs it.
- Provide proof of income or ID when requested as evidence of ability to guarantee payments.
A guarantor should read the full contract language. If the guarantor signs a separate guarantor agreement, that document controls the guarantor’s rights and limits. Official LTB forms and application processes are used when a landlord files a claim or seeks eviction through the Board[3].
When landlords use official forms
Landlords often start with a notice for unpaid rent or other breaches, and then may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if the issue is unresolved. Commonly referenced official documents include the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, and the LTB application forms and guidance for filing an application. Examples of forms and when they are used:
- Form: Application to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) — Forms page. Used when a landlord files to end a tenancy or collect unpaid rent; a tenant, guarantor, or landlord can follow instructions on the LTB forms page to start a claim (example: if rent is overdue and the landlord wants an order for payment).
- Form/Notice: Notice to End Tenancy or LTB-specific notices. Landlords use notices to inform tenants of breaches before applying to the Board; a tenant or guarantor should keep copies of any notice they receive.
What tenants and guarantors can do to protect themselves
Before signing
- Ask for a written tenancy agreement showing who is the named tenant and whether the guarantor is referenced.
- Request a clear guarantor agreement that limits liability where possible (for example, a time limit or cap on amounts).
- Get ID, contact details, and a copy of the guarantor’s signature and keep a dated record.
During the tenancy
- Pay rent on time and keep receipts or e-transfer confirmations as proof.
- Document move-in condition with photos and an inspection report to limit future damage claims.
- Respond promptly to any official notices and involve the guarantor early if a payment issue arises.
FAQ
- Can a landlord require a guarantor for roommates in Ontario?
- No. Landlords can ask for a guarantor as a condition of renting, but any request must be applied consistently and documented in the agreement. If you believe a requirement is discriminatory, seek advice or contact the Landlord and Tenant Board[1].
- What does a guarantor actually sign?
- A guarantor signs either the lease or a separate guarantor agreement promising to cover the tenant’s obligations, usually rent and damage costs. Always get a copy of the signed document.
- How long can a guarantor be held responsible?
- Typically until the tenancy ends or until the guarantor agreement specifies an end date. If the lease continues or arrears remain, a guarantor may still be liable until obligations are satisfied.
- Can a guarantor be removed from the agreement?
- Removal depends on the guarantor agreement and landlord consent. The safest approach is to negotiate a written release signed by the landlord once tenants meet agreed conditions.
How-To
- Gather and keep copies of the lease, any guarantor agreement, receipts for rent, and a move-in condition report.
- Respond to notices promptly: read them carefully, meet deadlines, and send a dated reply documenting your position.
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for guidance or to start an application if the issue is not resolved informally.[1]
- If a landlord files a claim, follow the LTB forms and filing instructions and consider legal advice where needed.[3]
