Moving In and Out for Tenants in Ontario: What You Need to Know

Whether you're moving into your first rental in Ontario or preparing for a move-out, it's important to understand your legal rights, your responsibilities, and the key steps to ensure a smooth transition. Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out the rules for both tenants and landlords, with guidance provided by the Landlord and Tenant Board. This guide will walk you through what to expect, what paperwork you'll need, and tips for protecting your interests when moving in or out of a rental home.

Moving Into a New Rental: Key Steps and Tips

Moving into a rental is exciting—but before you settle in, be sure to handle these important steps:

• Review your lease agreement carefully. Make sure you understand all clauses and discuss any unclear points with your landlord.
• Pay the correct deposit: In Ontario, a landlord can only ask for the last month's rent as a deposit, not a security deposit.
• Complete a move-in inspection. Document the state of the unit and note any existing issues.
• Get keys and confirm access to amenities (parking, laundry, storage).

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

For practical tips to help your move go smoothly, visit Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Initial Inspection: Why It Matters

Before unpacking, do a walk-through inspection with your landlord. Note existing damage, take photos, and fill out an inspection report if available. This protects you later when moving out.

You can follow the advice in the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Understanding Ontario's Required Forms

Several official forms play a key role during move-in and move-out. Here are some to know:

• Form N9 – Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy: Use this form to give written notice if you wish to end your tenancy.
  For example, if you plan to move out, you must provide this notice according to your lease terms. Download Form N9 here.
• Form N11 – Agreement to End the Tenancy: This form is used if both tenant and landlord agree to end the tenancy sooner. Useful if both parties want a flexible move-out date. Download Form N11 here.
• Form T1 – Tenant Application for a Rebate: File this if you believe your landlord has collected an illegal deposit or other charges. Download Form T1 here.

Always serve forms correctly and keep a copy for your records.

Preparing for Move-Out: What You Need to Know

As your lease ends or your plans change, it’s vital to plan ahead for moving out. Ontario law requires proper notice—even in month-to-month arrangements. Here’s what to remember:

• Give proper written notice: Usually 60 days before the last day of your rental period using Form N9.
• Leave the rental clean and undamaged. Ordinary wear and tear is expected, but you must repair any tenant-caused damage.
• Schedule a move-out inspection with your landlord to resolve any concerns early.
• Return all keys and devices on or before your move-out date.

See Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for additional guidance on vacating your home successfully.

Getting Your Last Month’s Rent and Interest

If you paid a last month’s rent deposit, your landlord must apply it to your final month. You may also be entitled to interest, which should be paid annually. For tips on recovering your deposit and interest, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Essential Legislation and Where to Get Help

All tenancy matters in Ontario are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Disputes are settled by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). If issues arise, you may apply to the LTB for help.

For a full overview of your legal protections, browse Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What notice must I give to end my tenancy in Ontario?
   Tenants generally must give 60 days’ written notice before moving out, using Form N9 – Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy. The notice should line up with the end of a rental period (e.g., the last day of the month).
2. Does my landlord have to give my deposit back?
   In Ontario, landlords hold a “last month’s rent deposit” rather than a traditional security deposit. This amount is applied to your final month’s rent, and interest must be paid annually.
3. Can my landlord ask for a security deposit?
   No. Ontario landlords cannot request a security deposit—only a last month’s rent deposit is allowed, as per the Residential Tenancies Act.
4. What if there’s damage when I move out?
   Tenants are responsible for repairing damage beyond normal wear and tear. Take dated photos of the unit when you move in and out for your records.
5. Where can I get help if there’s a dispute?
   If issues arise, contact Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board, your local legal clinic, or a tenant advocacy organization for guidance.

How To: Key Steps for Moving In or Out in Ontario

1. How do I provide notice to end my tenancy?
   Fill out Form N9 and deliver it to your landlord at least 60 days before your intended move-out date.
2. What should I do before moving in?
   Walk through the rental, record any issues with photos, and complete an inspection with your landlord.
3. How do I get my last month’s rent deposit with interest?
   When moving out, request a statement of your deposit from your landlord. If not provided, contact the LTB for assistance.
4. How do I protect myself against unfair charges when moving out?
   Document the rental’s condition upon leaving, return all keys, and arrange a move-out inspection with your landlord.

Key Takeaways

• Always use official forms and provide written notice within required timelines for moving in or out.
• Document the condition of your unit both at move-in and move-out to avoid disputes.
• Familiarize yourself with Ontario’s rental laws to protect your rights as a tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Handles tenancy disputes, forms and applications
• Renting in Ontario: Your Rights: Official government guide to tenant rights
• Community Legal Clinics: Find local help at Legal Aid Ontario
• Tenant Rights in Ontario: Complete fact sheet about tenant protections

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1. Government of Ontario. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Accessed 2024.
2. Landlord and Tenant Board. Official Website. Accessed 2024.
3. Ontario Forms. Notice and Application Forms for Tenants. Accessed 2024.

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