Step-by-Step Help for Ontario Tenants: Moving In and Out

Moving in or out of a rental unit in Ontario can bring up many questions and potential issues for tenants. Whether you're starting a new lease, planning your exit, or dealing with move-related disputes, it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities under Ontario law. This guide offers clear, step-by-step support tailored for Ontario tenants facing moving in or out challenges, focusing on official rules and the most up-to-date processes.

What to Do Before Moving In: Key Steps for Ontario Tenants

An organized moving-in process helps protect both your comfort and your rights as a tenant in Ontario. Here are your most important early steps:

• Review your lease agreement: Make sure all terms, such as rent, duration, and allowed occupancy, are clear and correct.
• Understand the rules about deposits. In Ontario, landlords can only ask for a rent deposit equal to one month's rent, used for last month's rent.
• Take photos of your new unit before moving your belongings in. These can help resolve issues at move-out.
• Arrange a walk-through inspection with your landlord to document current conditions. This isn’t required by law, but it’s highly recommended.

For a detailed checklist and practical tips when settling into a new home, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Documenting the Condition: Why the Initial Inspection Matters

Keeping a record of the condition of your unit is the best way to safeguard your security deposit and prevent disputes later. If your landlord offers an inspection, document any pre-existing damage in writing and with photos.

Find an inspection checklist and more details at Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Common Problems When Moving In

• Unit not ready or not clean
• Repairs not completed as promised
• Disputes over deposits or payment issues
• Landlord access issues

If you discover health or safety hazards, report them to your landlord immediately in writing. For broader safety requirements, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Official Forms for Common Move-In / Move-Out Issues

• N11: Agreement to End the Tenancy
  Use this form if you and your landlord mutually agree to end the tenancy early. N11: Agreement to End the Tenancy (Ontario LTB).
• N12: Notice to End Your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser or a Family Member Requires the Rental Unit
  You may receive this if your landlord or a close relative intends to move in. N12 Form (Ontario LTB).
• Tenant Application (T2):
  If your landlord has withheld your deposit or you experience other rights violations, you can file a T2 application for tenant rights violations. Tenant Application T2 (Ontario LTB).
• Tenant Notice to End the Tenancy (N9):
  Give this notice when you intend to end a month-to-month lease. N9 Form (Ontario LTB).

Always keep copies of completed forms and provide them to your landlord by methods allowed (mail, hand delivery, or as otherwise permitted).

Steps for Moving Out: How to Avoid Common Problems

• Give your landlord proper written notice (usually N9 with at least 60 days’ notice).
• Arrange a final walkthrough or inspection together.
• Take photos once the unit is empty and cleaned.
• Return all keys and get written confirmation you’ve moved out.
• Provide your landlord with your forwarding address for your deposit return.

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

Security Deposit Returns

Ontario does not permit "damage deposits" – only rent deposits (usually for the last month's rent). Your deposit must be returned with any legally required interest, less any owed rent or approved deductions.

The Ontario Tribunal for Rental Disputes

In Ontario, all tenancy disputes, move-in/move-out problems, and landlord-tenant forms go through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). This is the official government body for resolving rental and lease disputes, enforcing your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.

Quick Reference: Rights and Responsibilities in Ontario

Tenants and landlords in Ontario both have defined obligations. For a full breakdown, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Tip: Document everything! Save written notices, completed forms, emails, and photos for your records.

For help with every stage of your rental journey—or to start searching for a new home—Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions: Moving In/Out in Ontario

1. Do I have to pay a security deposit in Ontario?
   No. Ontario landlords can only request a "rent deposit" (typically the last month's rent), not a damage or security deposit. For more on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
2. How much notice must I provide before moving out?
   For monthly leases, provide at least 60 days' written notice using the N9 form before your rental period ends.
3. What if repairs are not done when I move in?
   Inform your landlord in writing. If issues aren't resolved, you may file a T2 application with the LTB.
4. Is a move-in or move-out inspection required?
   It is not required by Ontario law, but strongly recommended to prevent disputes.
5. How do I get my last month's rent deposit back?
   The deposit is applied to your final month's rent. If you overpaid, any balance should be refunded with interest.

How-To: Solving Common Move-In/Out Issues in Ontario

1. How do I correctly give notice when moving out?
   Complete the N9 Tenant Notice form, serve it to your landlord at least 60 days ahead of your planned move-out date, and keep a copy.
2. How can I make sure I get my deposit/interest returned?
   Supply your landlord with a forwarding address, and request written confirmation of deposit return. If the landlord refuses, file a T2 application with the LTB.
3. What steps can I take if my landlord refuses repairs after move-in?
   Send a formal repair request in writing. If unresolved, apply to the LTB using a T2 Form.
4. Can I leave before my lease ends?
   Talk to your landlord about an N11 mutual agreement to end the tenancy. If needed, consult the LTB for your options.

Summary: What Every Ontario Tenant Should Know

• Always keep written records (notices, forms, photos) during your rental.
• Use and submit official forms for notices, ending tenancies, and complaints.
• Involve Ontario’s LTB for unresolved disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (Ontario): Official forms, applications, and dispute resolution
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Complete Ontario rental housing law
• Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO): Housing Law Resources
• For a rights summary, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario

---

1. Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
3. Landlord and Tenant Board – Official Forms

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy