Subletting or assigning your rental in Ontario means letting someone else live in the unit under your lease. Tenants and renters should know when landlord consent is needed, how to ask for permission, and what to do if consent is refused. This guide explains plain-language steps, common timelines, and practical examples so you can protect your tenancy, handle screening and documentation, and use the Landlord and Tenant Board if necessary. Where available, links point to official Ontario sources and simple forms you may need.
What are subletting and assignment?
Subletting is when you rent your unit to someone else for a period while you remain responsible under the lease. Assignment transfers your lease to another person so they become directly responsible to the landlord. Both options usually require landlord consent under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1].
When you need landlord permission
- Serve a written notice requesting landlord consent before you sublet or assign.
- Give clear dates for the proposed sublet or assignment and the expected move-in/move-out timeline.
- Provide screening documents and references for the replacement tenant when asked.
What to do if a landlord says no
If a landlord refuses consent, ask for the reason in writing and keep evidence of your request and their reply. If you believe the refusal is unreasonable, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for a decision[2]. The Board can decide whether consent was unreasonably withheld and may allow subletting or assignment.
Practical steps before you sublet or assign
- Check the unit for maintenance or repair issues and document any concerns before the new occupant moves in.
- Agree in writing how rent will be paid, when, and who is responsible for utilities or damages.
- Share clear contact details and emergency instructions with the replacement tenant and the landlord.
If you need a replacement tenant quickly, consider listing the unit online; you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare how listings describe availability and application requirements.
When to consider alternatives
If assignment or subletting is not allowed, you can discuss mutually agreeing to end the lease early. That may involve a written surrender or a replacement tenant approved by the landlord. For guidance on leaving before a lease ends, see What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires and consider how to formally end the rental agreement by following steps in How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.
Forms and official resources you may need
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — the legislation that governs subletting and assignment in Ontario; read it to understand your statutory rights and obligations.[1]
- Landlord and Tenant Board applications and forms — use the Board's official forms if you need a decision about consent, including the general application forms available on the LTB website.[2]
- Official guidance and sample letters — use the LTB and Ontario government pages for sample notice language and document checklists before filing any application.[3]
FAQ
- Can my landlord refuse a request to sublet or assign?
- Yes, but refusals must be reasonable; if you think a refusal is unfair you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a decision.
- Do I need a written agreement with the person I sublet to?
- Yes, get a written sublet agreement that states rent, responsibilities, and dates; keep copies of all documents and communications.
- Who stays responsible for the lease if I sublet?
- As the original tenant you usually remain responsible to the landlord for rent and damage unless the lease is assigned and the landlord accepts the new tenant.
How-To
- Draft a written request that explains whether you seek a sublet or an assignment, the proposed dates, and details about the replacement person.
- Attach screening documents, references, and any proof of the replacement's ability to pay rent.
- Deliver the request to the landlord and keep a dated copy of delivery or email communication.
- If refused and you believe the refusal is unreasonable, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board with the official application form and your evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) - official tribunal
- Ontario.ca: Renting and lease agreements
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
