Lease Transfers and Sublets in Ontario

Leases & Agreements Ontario 3 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Ontario

Dealing with lease transfers and sublets can be a complex process for tenants in Ontario. Whether you're considering leaving your rental early or accommodating a subtenant, it's essential to understand your rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This article provides guidance on handling common issues related to lease transfers and sublets in Ontario.

Before you start the process, gather your current lease and any addenda, recent pay stubs, and contact information for potential new tenants. Prepare a written request that explains who will take over, the proposed transfer date, and keep copies for your records.

Understanding Lease Transfers and Sublets

In Ontario, a lease transfer, also known as an assignment, transfers the entire lease agreement from the original tenant to a new tenant. A sublet allows the original tenant to rent out the property to another person while remaining responsible for the lease. Both options have specific legal requirements and conditions.

Tenant's Rights and Obligations

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants have the right to request their landlord's consent for a lease transfer or sublet. A landlord cannot unreasonably withhold consent but is allowed to charge a fee for processing the request. If you face any issues, you might find it useful to review Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Ask for any consent decision in writing and note any processing fees. If consent is unreasonably withheld, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a resolution.

Steps to Request a Lease Transfer or Sublet

  1. Provide a Written Request: Submit a formal, written request to your landlord stating your intention to transfer or sublet. Include potential candidates for the new tenant or subtenant.
  2. Wait for Landlord's Consent: The landlord has 14 days to respond. If they do not respond within this period, consent is assumed.
  3. Complete Required Forms: If consent is given, complete necessary documents such as Landlord and Tenant Board forms to finalize the transfer or sublet.
Even after consent is granted, you remain responsible for the lease until the new tenant signs the agreement and moves in. Coordinate with the landlord to finalize documents and avoid gaps in occupancy.

It's important to follow proper procedures to avoid complications. For further details, you might also explore the page on How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide for possible disputes.

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Resolving Lease Transfer and Sublet Problems

If a landlord refuses your request without valid reasons, tenants can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to resolve the dispute. The Landlord and Tenant Board oversees such matters and can provide guidance.

Moving out while a sublet or transfer process is underway might have implications on your lease obligations. For tenants needing to leave early, see What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.

Leaving early can affect your security deposit and rent obligations; review your lease for early-termination penalties and ask the landlord to confirm any changes in writing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

If you're seeking more information or need assistance with specific tenancy issues, consider reaching out to:

If you can't access these services, consider contacting a local legal aid clinic or tenant hotline for a free initial consultation to understand deadlines and next steps.

Footnotes:

  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board

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David Chen
David Chen

Tenant Law Analyst, Tenant Rights Canada

David specializes in Ontario residential tenancy law and Northern territories housing regulations. He has followed developments at the Landlord and Tenant Board closely for over eight years and writes extensively on LTB procedures, rent increases, and maintenance obligations.

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