Ontario Tenant Rights When Moving In and Out

Moving into or out of a rental home in Ontario is a big step. As a tenant, knowing your rights and responsibilities ensures that the process is fair and follows Ontario's rules. This guide covers everything, from deposits and inspections to proper notice and how to get your deposit back.

Before You Move In: What to Know

Before you move in, your landlord can only ask for certain deposits and must give you a written copy of your lease. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1], here’s what you need to know:

• Landlords can ask for a rent deposit (usually last month’s rent).
• They cannot ask for a security deposit for potential damage.
• You are entitled to a written tenancy agreement (lease).

Rent deposits are a common source of confusion. For a detailed breakdown, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Initial Inspection and Safety

Before you move in, inspect the unit with the landlord. Note any damage or issues so you're not blamed for them later. Document everything with photos and a checklist.

• Check that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working.
• Ensure the home is clean and free from pests.
• Test plumbing, appliances, and lights.

Read more about inspections in the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Key Forms and Official Steps

• Form N12: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser or a Family Member Requires the Rental Unit
  Use this if your landlord wants to end your tenancy so that they or a family member can move in. The landlord must provide this form with 60-days’ notice. Details and official form: Landlord and Tenant Board forms.
• Form N9: Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy
  Use this if you want to end your tenancy. You must give at least 60 days’ written notice before moving out. Get the form here: N9: Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy.

Make sure you submit these forms correctly—improper notice can lead to extra costs or a delayed move-out.

During Your Tenancy

Tenants have a right to a safe, well-maintained home. Your landlord must:

• Make repairs as needed
• Ensure the home meets health and safety standards
• Respect your privacy (24 hours' notice for entry unless it's an emergency)

If you encounter issues, document them and make a written request for repairs or help. More about these obligations can be found in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Legislation and Tribunal

All landlord-tenant relations in Ontario are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. Disputes are handled by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario^[2].

How to Move Out: Legal Steps

To move out legally, give written notice (usually 60 days before the last day of a rental period). If you have a fixed-term lease and want to leave early, talk to your landlord about options or consider subletting with their permission.

• Give proper notice using Form N9.
• Keep a copy of all communication.
• Leave the unit clean and in good repair, minus normal wear and tear.

For more tips, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Getting Your Deposit Back

In Ontario, your rent deposit can only be used for the last month’s rent—not for cleaning, repairs, or damages. If you give proper notice and fulfill your lease, the landlord must return any overpayment with interest. You can read more about this in Ontario's laws or see the step-by-step process for How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

If you need to find a new home quickly, Browse apartments for rent in Canada to see the latest available rental units in your area.

Remember, you have the right to a fair process when moving in and moving out. For additional details about rights and responsibilities, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What notice do I need to give to move out?
   Tenants usually need to give at least 60 days' written notice using the correct form (N9) before the end of the rental period.
2. Can my landlord keep my rent deposit for cleaning or repairs?
   No, in Ontario your rent deposit can only be used for last month’s rent, not for cleaning or damages.
3. What happens if I move out before my lease ends?
   You are still responsible for rent until the lease ends or a replacement tenant is found, unless your landlord agrees to end the lease early.
4. When should the landlord return my deposit?
   The landlord applies your deposit to your final month's rent. If there’s interest owed, it must be paid to you, usually at the end of your tenancy.
5. What if there are problems with my unit when I move in?
   Document the problems and notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible to avoid being held responsible when you move out.

How To: Moving In and Moving Out in Ontario

1. How to give notice to move out legally:
   Fill out Form N9 and deliver it to your landlord at least 60 days before your planned move-out date.
2. How to get your rent deposit back:
   Make sure you have paid all your rent and leave the unit in good condition—the landlord should apply your deposit to the last month’s rent and return any interest owed.
3. How to document move-in condition:
   Take dated photos, note all damages on a checklist, and have your landlord sign off on it to avoid disputes later.

Key Takeaways

• Give written notice before moving out using the proper form.
• Deposits in Ontario are for last month’s rent only—not damages.
• Always document your rental’s condition at move-in and move-out.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario: file complaints, access forms, get help with disputes
• Ontario Government: Your Rights as a Tenant: official guides and contact information
• For more facts and support, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario
• Legal clinics: Seek free legal advice from your local community legal clinic

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

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