Ontario Rent & Deposit Checklist for Tenants

Rent & Deposits Ontario published July 01, 2025 Flag of Ontario

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Ontario, understanding your obligations around rent and deposits is crucial. Ontario’s rental laws provide specific protections for tenants, but it’s important to know exactly what’s allowed, what’s required, and what to look out for at every stage—before, during, and after your tenancy. This checklist is designed to help you stay informed and confident about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in Ontario.

What to Know Before You Sign a Lease

In Ontario, most rentals are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. This means there are strict rules about what deposits landlords can collect and when rent is due. Here’s what you should confirm before committing to a new rental:

  • Review the rental agreement carefully before signing.
  • Landlords can only ask for a rent deposit (often called "last month’s rent").
  • Security or damage deposits are not allowed in Ontario.
  • Ask for written receipts for any payments you make, including deposits.
  • If you pay a key deposit, it must be refundable and in the actual cost of replacing the key.

If you’re unfamiliar with the types of deposits landlords can legally request—or want to avoid common pitfalls—read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for deeper insight.

Official Forms to Expect

  • Ontario Standard Lease (Form 2229E): This is the province’s required standard form of lease. Your landlord must use it for new tenancies. You can review and download it at the Government of Ontario website. Example: Before moving in, your landlord asks you to sign this form, clarifying all the rent, deposit, and fees in writing.

Paying Rent and Deposits: What’s Required and What’s Not

Ontario law is clear about when and how rent is to be paid, as well as what happens with deposits:

  • Rent is usually due on the first day of each month, unless your agreement specifies otherwise.
  • Landlords can request a deposit equal to one month’s rent—this is used for your last month in the unit, not as a security deposit.
  • Rent deposits must not be used for repairs or damages during your tenancy.
  • Your deposit will earn interest yearly, at a rate set by the Ontario government.
  • If you pay by cash, always get a signed receipt.

For a comprehensive look at making payments and your rights if you’re worried about late rent, check out Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

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Checklist for Moving In and Out

Moving In

  • Confirm you have a copy of your signed lease and any receipts for deposits.
  • Inspect the rental unit thoroughly and document its condition (with photos or a checklist). This protects you if there are disputes later.
  • Keep records of any communication with your landlord about initial repairs or issues.

Moving Out

  • Give proper notice in writing: usually 60 days before your lease ends (Form N9 - Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy). Find this official form and instructions on the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) website.
  • Arrange a final walkthrough with your landlord if possible and ask for your deposit interest in writing.
  • Make sure the keys are returned and all utilities are settled.

Want to make your next move easier? Read Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Key Rules Under Ontario Law

  • Your landlord cannot demand or accept any other kind of deposit (such as security or damage deposits).
  • They must provide you with a receipt for any rent or deposit payment, if you request it.
  • If you plan to move out, you can use the government’s mandatory forms and follow the required notice periods.
Always keep copies of forms, emails, and receipts related to your rental—they can help if you ever need to resolve disputes at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Where to Get Official Help with Rent or Deposits

If problems arise, such as a landlord refusing to credit a deposit or failing to pay interest, you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). This is Ontario’s official tribunal for solving rental issues.

For investigative resources about your rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

If you’re still looking for housing, you can browse apartments for rent in Canada at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can a landlord ask for more than one month’s rent as a deposit?
    No. Under Ontario law, landlords can only request a rent deposit equal to one month’s rent. Security or damage deposits are not permitted.
  2. Is my rent deposit refundable?
    The deposit is intended for your last month's rent. It is not refunded, but in some cases, if the lease does not begin or is terminated properly, you may be entitled to a refund or part thereof.
  3. What forms should I use to give notice when I want to move out?
    Use the Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9), available from the Landlord and Tenant Board website. Give at least 60 days’ written notice before your intended move-out date.
  4. Does my landlord need to pay interest on my deposit?
    Yes. Your landlord must pay you interest on your rent deposit once every year, at a rate set by the province.
  5. Can my landlord demand a pet deposit or extra fees for pets?
    No. Additional or pet-specific deposits are not allowed. However, you’re still responsible for any damage caused by your pet.

How To: Filing a Complaint About Rent or Deposit Issues in Ontario

  1. How do I apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if my landlord doesn't return my deposit interest?
    Download the appropriate tenant application form (such as T1 - Tenant Application for a Rebate), fill it out, and submit it along with all supporting evidence to the LTB. Step-by-step details are also on the LTB website linked above.
  2. How can I get a receipt for payments made to my landlord?
    You can request a receipt in writing or verbally at any time. By law, landlords are required to provide a receipt for rent or deposit payments.
  3. How do I use the Ontario Standard Lease?
    Review and sign the Ontario Standard Lease (Form 2229E) with your landlord before moving in. Make sure all deposit and rent information is clear and correct before signing.
  4. How do I make sure my key deposit is refunded?
    Upon moving out, return all keys to your landlord and request the key deposit back. If there’s a dispute, keep records and use LTB forms to file a complaint if necessary.

Key Takeaways

  • Ontario landlords can only collect a rent deposit (last month’s rent)—never a security or damage deposit.
  • Always use the standard lease and official forms for notices and communications.
  • Document every payment and conversation for a smoother rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Ontario
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
  3. Ontario Standard Lease Form
  4. Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing – Tenant Rights
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.