Top 5 Things Tenants Should Know When Moving In or Out in Ontario

Moving in or out of a rental home in Ontario is an important transition for any tenant. Whether you’re starting fresh or preparing to end your lease, knowing your rights and responsibilities under Ontario law can make the process much smoother. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate common issues, forms, and steps during a move—so you can avoid stress and protect your interests at every stage.

1. Understanding Rental Deposits and Initial Payments

When moving into a new rental in Ontario, landlords can only require a rent deposit (sometimes called a last month’s rent deposit). This deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent (or one rental period for weekly tenancies), and it may only be used for the last month’s rent—not for damages or cleaning costs.

• Landlords cannot collect a security deposit or damage deposit in Ontario.
• Receipts must be provided if requested by the tenant.
• You have the right to interest on your deposit each year, usually equal to the rent guideline increase.

For more on this topic, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. Inspecting the Unit Before and After Your Tenancy

Before moving in, carefully inspect the rental unit for any existing damage or safety concerns. Document issues with photos and a checklist. This helps protect you if there’s any dispute about the unit’s condition when you move out.

• Schedule a walk-through with your landlord if possible.
• Take clear photos of appliances, fixtures, walls, floors, and windows.
• Note issues like broken locks, pest problems, or missing smoke alarms.

When moving out, a final inspection—ideally with your landlord—can help ensure you’re not held responsible for pre-existing damage. For details, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

3. Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Tenants and landlords in Ontario have rights and obligations outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. These include:

• Keeping the unit reasonably clean
• Reporting urgent repairs promptly
• Giving proper notice if you wish to move out
• Ensuring rent is paid on time

Your rental agreement cannot take away rights provided by law. For a full overview, visit the Tenant Rights in Ontario page.

4. Giving Proper Notice When Moving Out

In most cases, tenants must give written notice using the official Notice to End your Tenancy (Form N9), available from the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario. Standard notice is at least 60 days before your desired move-out date, ending at the conclusion of a rental period or lease term. Hand-deliver or send this notice to your landlord for proof.

5. Getting Your Deposit Back (Last Month’s Rent)

Your last month’s rent deposit should automatically apply to your final month in the unit. If your landlord has taken a deposit for another reason or is withholding it improperly, you can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board. Landlords must not withhold deposits to cover damages or cleaning fees.

For practical tips on ending your tenancy smoothly, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

For rental searches in your next city, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Key Ontario Forms for Moving In/Out

• Notice to End your Tenancy (Form N9):
  Use this form to officially notify your landlord if you are ending your tenancy. Available at the Landlord and Tenant Board Forms page.
  Example: A tenant with a month-to-month lease who wants to move out September 1 must give written notice to the landlord by July 1.
• Application to Collect Rent the Tenant Owes (Form L9):
  While primarily used by landlords, tenants should be aware if this form is filed against them after moving out. More info at the LTB Official Forms.

Always use official forms and keep copies for your records.

FAQ: Ontario Tenant Moving In/Out Questions

1. Can my landlord demand a damage deposit in Ontario?
   No, landlords may only require a rent deposit (usually for your last month) and cannot charge a separate damage deposit.
2. How much notice do I have to give to move out?
   Most tenants on a monthly lease must provide at least 60 days written notice ending on the last day of a rental period, using Form N9.
3. What if I find existing damage when moving in?
   Document all damage with photos and a checklist, and share your findings with your landlord right away. This helps protect you from responsibility when you move out.
4. When should I receive my deposit back?
   In Ontario, your deposit is applied to your last month's rent. If it was collected for another purpose, seek help from the Landlord and Tenant Board.
5. Who do I contact if there’s a dispute about moving out?
   Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for advice and forms.

How To: Common Tenant Actions When Moving In/Out

1. How do I give official notice to end my tenancy?
   Download Form N9 from the Landlord and Tenant Board, fill it out with your move-out date, and deliver it to your landlord at least 60 days before you want to leave. Keep a copy.
2. How can I protect myself from undue damage claims?
   Take photos and detailed notes at move-in and move-out. Share the checklist with your landlord.
3. What steps should I follow if my landlord withholds my deposit?
   Ask your landlord for clarification, then contact the Landlord and Tenant Board if the issue isn’t resolved.

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Document your unit’s condition at both move-in and move-out to avoid disputes.
• Use proper forms and deliver written notice on time when ending your tenancy.
• Know that only last month’s rent deposits are allowed; damage deposits are not legal in Ontario.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario — For official forms, applications, and dispute resolution
• Ontario Government Renting Guide — Plain-language info on tenant rights
• Tenant Rights in Ontario — Key facts for tenants in Ontario
• CLEO: Your Rights as a Tenant — Free legal info in multiple languages

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1. [1] See Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 for Ontario’s main legislation on rental housing.
2. All official forms and applications are available at the Landlord and Tenant Board’s website.
3. Province-wide tenant rights summarized here: Tenant Rights in Ontario.

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