Student Housing Lease Rules: Ontario Tenant Guide

Student housing in Ontario has some unique rules that can be confusing for tenants. Whether you’re renting an apartment, a shared house, or a room in a student residence, it’s important to understand your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This guide covers the most important aspects for student renters, including protections, lease terms, deposits, and official forms.

How Ontario’s Laws Protect Student Tenants

In most cases, student rentals—including off-campus apartments and shared houses—are covered by Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA). However, certain types of student residences, such as university-operated dormitories, may be exempt.

• Private rentals and shared apartments: Usually covered by the RTA
• On-campus university/college residences: Generally exempt (always ask your housing office)
• Private rooms in a landlord’s home: Covered if you have your own entrance/kitchen, but possibly exempt if you share with the landlord’s family

To see a complete overview of renter protections, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Unique Lease Terms for Students

Student leases in Ontario are often fixed-term (typically eight or 12 months). After this period, the lease usually becomes month-to-month unless you and your landlord agree otherwise. Your rights do not end with the academic year.

• Quiet Enjoyment: You have the legal right to a safe and reasonably quiet living space, regardless of your status as a student.
• Eviction rules: Landlords cannot evict you simply because the school year ends or classes finish. The RTA governs any notice or eviction process.

Rental Deposits and Application Money

Student tenants in Ontario can legally be asked to pay a deposit, but only for the last month’s rent—not for damage, keys, or additional fees. Learn what’s permitted in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

After You Sign the Lease

Once your student lease is signed, your rights and responsibilities differ little from other tenants. For tips on managing your new rental and what to expect, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Forms and Procedures for Student Tenants

Ontario student renters should be familiar with several important forms administered by the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario:

• N11: Agreement to End the Tenancy – Use this if you and your landlord agree to end your rental before the lease term is up. For example, you find a co-op placement elsewhere and want to move out early. Access the form and details on the LTB official forms page.
• N9: Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy – Use this if you need to end a month-to-month tenancy, with 60 days’ notice. For instance, if you graduate and decide not to rent for the summer. Download N9 from the LTB.

Tips for submitting these forms:

• Give written notice in person or by mail (not email, unless your landlord agrees in writing)
• Keep a copy for your records and get proof of delivery if possible

Common Issues and Advice for Student Rentals

• Roommates: If you share with others, you might have a joint lease, making all tenants responsible for rent and damages.
• Subletting: If you plan to leave temporarily (for summer or a co-op), ask your landlord for written consent to sublet. Landlords cannot refuse without valid reasons under the RTA.
• Maintenance: Landlords must keep your unit in good repair and address urgent problems promptly.

If you’re unclear about your lease, ask for clarification—and never feel rushed into signing. The Landlord and Tenant Board can help if disputes arise.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Ontario Student Rentals

1. Are all student housing leases in Ontario covered by tenant laws?
   Most off-campus and private student rentals are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, but university-owned dorms may be exempt.
2. Can a landlord evict me because the semester is over?
   No. Ending the school year is not a legal reason for eviction. Your landlord must follow proper procedures under Ontario law.
3. Do I get my last month’s rent deposit back?
   No, this deposit is applied to your final month—not refunded separately. But you shouldn’t be charged for damages unless proven and agreed.
4. Can I sublet my student rental for the summer?
   Yes, if you have the landlord’s consent. The landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.
5. What if I need to break my lease early?
   You must give proper notice or negotiate with your landlord, often using the N9 or N11 forms from the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Key Takeaways for Student Tenants

• Most student housing in Ontario is legally protected under the RTA, except university dorms
• Proper notice and procedures are required to end your lease or sublet
• Know your rights—don’t be pressured into illegal fees or unfair practices

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario – Dispute resolution, forms, and tenant guides
• Ontario Government – Renting in Ontario: Your Rights
• Local campus legal clinics and student unions for free tenant advice
• Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Ontario RTA text
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario: Official LTB website
3. LTB forms: Ontario LTB forms portal
4. Ontario government resource page: Renting in Ontario: Your Rights

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