Use this Ontario lease checklist before signing, at move-in, and after your rental agreement is complete. Review the Standard Form of Lease, confirm the terms in writing, and keep copies of your documents and payment receipts.
Ontario Standard Lease Agreement Checklist
In Ontario, most residential tenancies must use the government-mandated Standard Form of Lease (Form 2229E). Landlords and tenants are required to complete this form for new tenancies in writing unless the rental is exempt, such as care homes or certain social housing. The form outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1].
Lease Details to Review Before Signing
- Names and contact details: Include all tenants and the landlord.
- Rental unit address: Confirm the address of the unit you will rent.
- Rent amount and due date: Check the agreed-upon rent and when it is payable.
- Deposit information: Review any first or last month's rent payment.
- Utilities and included services: Confirm who pays for hydro, water, gas, and other services.
- Start and end dates: Check these dates if the agreement is for a fixed term.
- Additional terms and rules: Review terms about smoking, pets, guests, parking, and other rules.
Read the agreement carefully before signing. Ask for clarification about any term you do not understand, and make sure the written agreement matches what you were shown or agreed to.
Required Forms and Where to Find Them
- Standard Lease Form (Form 2229E): This is required for most residential tenancies in Ontario.
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Information for New Tenants Brochure:
- Landlords must give this government-produced brochure to every new tenant. It explains tenant and landlord rights in plain language.
- Download from the Landlord and Tenant Board
Keep these forms with your signed lease and other rental records. They can help you understand your rights and resolve future disputes.
Deposits and Prepayments: What Is Allowed in Ontario?
A landlord can ask for a rent deposit, usually equal to one month's rent. Security deposits beyond last month's rent are not allowed. Get a receipt for any money you pay.
For more information, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Your Rights and Responsibilities After Signing
After a lease is signed, tenants have the legal right to occupy the unit and the responsibility to pay rent on time and care for the property. The landlord must maintain the rental in a habitable condition and respect your privacy.
Conduct an initial inspection as soon as possible after signing or moving in. For guidance, consult Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
Move-In and Record-Keeping Checklist
- Keep a copy of the signed lease and every payment receipt.
- Take photos of the unit's condition at move-in.
- Get written confirmation of repairs the landlord has promised.
- Keep copies of relevant correspondence and building rules.
Lease Terms Tenants Often Overlook
- Who is responsible for utilities such as hydro, water, and gas?
- What are the parking details, including the location and whether parking is included in rent?
- What are the guest policies and rules about subletting?
- Are there restrictions on pet ownership?
- How should you request repairs or report problems?
For more information about what happens after signing, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
Key Legislation and Decision-Making Body
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the official tribunal that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants in Ontario. The relationship between landlords and tenants is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. Lease terms must not contradict this law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ontario Leases
- What documents should I expect when signing a lease in Ontario?
Tenants should receive the Standard Lease Form, an Information for New Tenants Brochure, payment receipts for deposits or rent, and a copy of any building rules. Ask for these materials at or before move-in. - Can my landlord add new rules after I sign the lease?
In general, rules not included in the original signed lease cannot be enforced unless both parties agree in writing and the rules do not break Ontario law. - Is a verbal lease agreement valid in Ontario?
Yes, verbal leases are legal, but tenants have more protection if everything is in writing. Landlords must still follow the Residential Tenancies Act without a written lease. - Do I need to sign a new lease every year?
No. After the initial term, a lease automatically converts to a month-to-month agreement unless you and your landlord agree otherwise. - What if my landlord refuses to use the Standard Lease?
If requested, landlords must provide the Standard Lease Form. If they fail to provide it, ask in writing and, if it is still not provided, you may be eligible for rent withholding. See the details here. - How do I check my lease for compliance with the law?
Compare each section with Ontario's Standard Lease Form and check that no terms violate the Residential Tenancies Act. If you are unsure, seek advice from the LTB or a tenant advisory service. - How can I get a copy of my lease if I lost it?
Request a written copy from your landlord. The landlord must provide it within 21 days if asked. - How do I report illegal clauses or landlord behaviour?
Submit a complaint to the Landlord and Tenant Board with supporting documents such as lease copies and correspondence.
Additional Resources
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – for applications, mediation, and legal information
- Ontario Government: Renting in Ontario Guide
- Local tenant organizations and legal clinics for support with disputes or questions
