Renting in Ontario means your written lease sets key rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords. The provincial standard lease is designed to make rules about rent, deposits, entry, repairs, and ending a tenancy clearer so tenants understand what to expect and how to protect themselves. This guide walks tenants through common lease clauses, explains when you can challenge rent increases, how to request repairs, and what to do about deposits and move‑in inspections. It points to official Ontario forms and the Landlord and Tenant Board, offers practical documentation tips, and outlines step‑by‑step actions tenants can take if a landlord or lease clause conflicts with the Residential Tenancies Act.
What is the Ontario Standard Lease?
The Ontario standard lease is a government-issued rental form that sets baseline terms for most private residential tenancies. It must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1], and the official fillable standard form is available from the province Standard form of lease[2]. If you and your landlord cannot agree or need a remedy, the Landlord and Tenant Board is the tribunal that handles disputes and applications Landlord and Tenant Board[3].
Key items to check in your lease
- Rent amount and exact due date — confirm the monthly amount and when it is payable.
- Payment schedule and late fees — check whether rent is due by a specific day and what late fees apply.
- Security deposit or last months rent rules — learn what is allowed and how it is repaid; see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for details.
- Entry and notice requirements — confirm how much notice a landlord must give to enter your unit and for what reasons.
- Repairs and maintenance responsibilities — note who is responsible for which repairs and how to request them in writing.
- Move-in inspection and condition report — document damage and existing issues at move-in; see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
- Ending the tenancy and notice periods — check required notice timelines and method of delivery (days required to give notice).
How to handle common lease issues
Start by reading the clause carefully and comparing it to your statutory rights under the Residential Tenancies Act. If a clause seems to conflict with the Act, note the exact wording, date your notes, and keep copies of all communications. When asking for repairs, send a clear written request that lists the problem, the date you first noticed it, and any safety concerns.
If the landlord does not respond, you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board. Before filing, gather evidence such as photos, receipts, and dated communication records to support your case.
Notice, deposits and rent increases
Ontario limits many lease terms and rent increase procedures under the Residential Tenancies Act. Tenants should confirm whether a rent increase follows provincial rules (including the required notice period and allowable percentage). For deposit and last-month rent specifics, review provincial guidance and the deposit information linked above.
FAQ
- Do I have to use the standard lease?
- Most private residential landlords must use the Ontario standard form of lease for new or renewed tenancies; some exemptions apply, such as certain commercial agreements or unique living arrangements.
- Can a landlord add extra rules not in the standard lease?
- Landlords can include reasonable additional clauses, but any term that conflicts with the Residential Tenancies Act or is illegal will not be enforceable.
- How do I get a copy of the standard lease?
- You can download the official fillable Standard form of lease from the Ontario government website; the provinces page includes guidance on how to use it and what each section means.
- What can I do if my landlord does not follow the lease?
- If informal requests do not resolve the issue, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for remedies; prepare evidence and follow the Boards filing instructions.
How-To
- Check lease details and dates — verify rent, payment schedule, lease term, and notice deadlines.
- Document existing damage and take photos on move-in — keep dated records and a copy of the condition report.
- Keep copies of official forms and notices — file the standard lease and any written agreements in one place.
- Request repairs in writing and keep proof of delivery — include dates, details, and any safety concerns.
- Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if problems persist — follow the Boards instructions and bring supporting documents to any hearing.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- View the Standard form of lease
