Ontario Tenant Laws for Moving In and Out: What You Need to Know

Moving into or out of a rental in Ontario comes with specific rights and responsibilities for tenants. Understanding these laws can help you avoid costly mistakes, protect your deposit, and ensure a smooth transition. This article breaks down everything Ontario tenants need to know when starting or ending a rental—covering inspections, notice periods, deposits, and the official forms you may need.

Key Moving In Laws for Tenants in Ontario

When you move into a new rental in Ontario, several legal requirements and protections apply to both you and your landlord under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Security Deposits and First/Last Month’s Rent

• Ontario landlords can only collect a rent deposit for the last month's rent – they cannot require a separate damage deposit.
• Your deposit is held and applied to your last month’s rent; it earns interest as set by the province.
• Receipts for any money paid should be provided on request.

For a deeper dive into these rules, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. Move-In Inspection and Condition Reports

• Though not legally required in Ontario, it’s highly recommended to perform a thorough move-in inspection with your landlord and document the unit’s condition (photos and checklist).

This can help prevent disputes about damage later. Learn how to do it right with the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

3. Signing the Lease and Understanding Your Rights

• Once a lease is signed, you are protected under Ontario’s rental laws.
• You must receive a copy of the signed lease and the official "Information for New Tenants" brochure.

Get more details in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement and also check Tenant Rights in Ontario.

How Moving Out Works in Ontario

There are strict rules under Ontario law for giving notice, inspections, and the return of deposits when moving out.

1. Giving Notice: Required Forms and Timelines

• You must give written notice using Form N9 – Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy.
  Download and instructions: Form N9 (Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy)
• Notice must be at least 60 days before your intended move-out date, and must line up with the end of a rental period (usually the end of the month).
• If you need to move out before your lease expires, consult What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.

2. Final Inspection and Returning Keys

• A move-out inspection is not mandatory, but is recommended for both parties. Request one to resolve potential disputes.
• Return all keys on the agreed date; failure to do so may result in extra costs.

See detailed move-out strategies at Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

3. Getting Your Deposit Back with Interest

• Your last month's rent deposit covers your final rent. If your rent increased during your tenancy, your landlord may ask you to top up the deposit.
• You are entitled to the deposit interest for each year it was held, paid annually or applied as a rent discount.

Learn more at How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Official Tribunal for Ontario Tenants

All rental disputes, forms, and legal notices are managed by the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB). This tribunal handles issues like eviction applications, deposit disputes, and maintenance complaints.

Relevant Ontario Forms for Moving In and Out

• Form N9 - Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy: Used to officially notify your landlord you are ending your tenancy (requires at least 60 days’ notice).
  Example: If you are moving for work and your lease is month-to-month, submit Form N9 at least two months before planning to leave.
• Form N11 - Agreement to End the Tenancy: Used when you and your landlord mutually agree to end the tenancy.
  Example: Both parties agree to end the lease early due to a job relocation. Get Form N11 here.
• Form T1 - Tenant Application for a Rebate: If your landlord does not return deposit interest as required, you may file a T1 to claim it. Access Form T1.

Other Legal Resources for Ontario Tenants

• See more details on your rights at Tenant Rights in Ontario.
• Looking for a new home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

1. What notice does a tenant need to give to move out in Ontario?
   Tenants must provide at least 60 days' written notice using Form N9, ending at the end of a rental period.
2. Can a landlord require an additional damage deposit in Ontario?
   No. Ontario law only permits a deposit for last month’s rent, not for damage or cleaning.
3. Is a move-in or move-out inspection mandatory?
   Inspections are not legally required in Ontario, but are highly recommended for both tenants and landlords.
4. What happens to my last month’s rent deposit?
   This deposit is used for your final month’s rent, and you are owed interest annually in accordance with Ontario law.
5. Where can I turn if there’s a dispute about my deposit or notice?
   Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) to file a complaint or application if discussions with your landlord fail.

1. How to fill out and serve Form N9 (Tenant's Notice to End the Tenancy)?
   Write your landlord’s name and address, your own details, the exact last day of your tenancy, sign, and deliver it in person or by other approved methods. Always keep a copy for your records.
2. How to request a move-in or move-out inspection?
   Contact your landlord in writing before moving dates, suggest a time, and bring a checklist for documentation. Take photos for clarity.
3. How to apply for deposit interest if it wasn’t returned?
   Download Form T1, fill out details of your tenancy and deposit, attach evidence, and submit it to the LTB with any required fee. Follow instructions on their site for serving the landlord a copy.

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Giving proper notice in writing is essential for a legal move-out; always use the official forms.
• Deposits are for last month’s rent only, and tenants are owed interest annually.
• Documentation (like inspections and receipts) protects both tenants and landlords against disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Ontario – Forms, applications, and contact info
• Ontario Tenant Hotline: 416-921-9494 or 1-888-332-3234
• Ontario Tenant Rights resources
• Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario
3. Official LTB Forms & Notices

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