Moving Out Mid-Month in Ontario: How Rent Is Prorated

When you move out mid-month in Ontario, understanding how rent is prorated can help you avoid disputes with your landlord and protect your deposit. This guide explains how daily rent is calculated under Ontario rules, what kind of written notice tenants should give, and common practical steps renters can take before and after vacating. It is written for tenants and renters in Ontario and avoids legal jargon while pointing to the relevant government resources and forms you may need. Read the examples, follow the action steps, and use the checklist to make the move-out process smoother and reduce the risk of disagreements over money or condition of the rental unit.

How rent proration normally works in Ontario

Most landlords charge a fixed monthly rent. If you leave partway through a month, a prorated amount is usually calculated by dividing the monthly rent by the number of days in that month and multiplying by the number of days you occupied the unit. That simple approach is the usual practice, but your lease or a signed agreement can affect the exact method. If you and your landlord disagree about calculation or deductions, you can raise the issue with the Landlord and Tenant Board ^[2] or consult the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 for the rules that apply to your situation ^[1].

Sample proration calculation

Example: Monthly rent $1,200 and you move out on the 10th of a 30-day month. Daily rent = $1,200 ÷ 30 = $40. You owe $40 × 10 = $400 for that month. If you paid full rent for the month, the landlord would typically refund $800, minus any lawful deductions for damage or unpaid charges.

What tenants should do before moving out

• Give written notice of your move-out date as required by your lease or as agreed with your landlord; include the exact date you will vacate and return keys.
• Document the units condition with dated photos or video and keep copies of receipts for any repairs or cleaning you arrange.
• Confirm the prorated rent amount with your landlord in writing and keep a record of the agreed calculation and payment method.

Returning keys and the final day

Return keys on the move-out date and ask for a signed written acknowledgement or email confirming the date you vacated. If the landlord later claims additional days of occupation, a signed receipt or written acknowledgement helps protect you.

Official forms and when to use them

Ontario does not require a single standard "tenant move-out" form, but the Landlord and Tenant Board offers official application forms and guides if a dispute arises. Visit the LTB forms page ^[3] for downloads and instructions. Commonly relevant items include:

• Written notice to your landlord (no standard numbered form): use a dated, signed letter or email stating your move-out date and keep a copy.
• Application to the Landlord and Tenant Board (use forms on the LTB site): file if you cannot resolve a dispute about rent owed or deposit return.

Resolving disputes over proration or deposit deductions

If you and your landlord cannot agree on proration, deductions, or deposit return, you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to have a hearing. Before filing, try these steps:

• Contact your landlord in writing to request an explanation of any deductions and a final accounting.
• Gather your evidence: lease, rent receipts, photos, inspection notes, and communications.
• If unresolved, follow the LTBs application process and attach your evidence as instructed on the LTB forms page ^[3].

FAQ

Will I always get a refund if I paid the full month but move out mid-month?

Generally yes, if you paid for the whole month and moved out earlier you are entitled to a refund of the unused prorated rent unless lawful deductions apply for damage, unpaid charges, or other valid reasons.

How should I calculate daily rent for proration?

Divide the agreed monthly rent by the number of days in that calendar month, then multiply by the days you occupied the unit. Record your math and share it with your landlord in writing.

What if my landlord refuses to refund prorated rent?

Try written negotiation first; if that fails you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board for a hearing. Keep all communication and evidence to support your claim.

How-To

1. Calculate daily rent: divide your monthly rent by the number of days in the month to find the prorated amount.
2. Give written notice: send a dated, signed notice or email to your landlord stating the exact move-out date and request confirmation.
3. Document the units condition on move-out day with photos or video and get a signed acknowledgement from the landlord if possible.
4. Agree and pay the prorated amount if required, or request a refund for any overpayment in writing.
5. Request a final inspection and provide a forwarding address for the security deposit and any final statements.

Key Takeaways

• Proration is normally based on daily rent: monthly rent divided by days in the month.
• Always give clear written notice with your exact move-out date and keep a copy.
• Document the units condition and keep receipts to support deposit return claims.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
• Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
• LTB forms and guides

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
2. [2] Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
3. [3] LTB forms and guides

If youre searching for a new place, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme. For checklists on preparing to leave and deposit tips see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.