Top 50 Questions About Rent & Deposits for Ontario Tenants

Rent & Deposits Ontario published June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
Can my landlord increase my rent?
Yes, but only once every 12 months and within the provincial rent increase guideline unless exempt.
How much notice does my landlord need to give before raising rent?
At least 90 days’ written notice is required before a rent increase.
What is Ontario’s rent increase guideline for this year?
For 2024, the guideline is 2.5%. Check the Ontario government site for updates.
Can my landlord demand a security deposit?
No, only a rent deposit (for last month's rent) is allowed, not a security deposit.
What is a rent deposit and how much can my landlord ask for?
Only up to one month’s rent (or one rental period) as a last month's rent deposit is allowed.
Can my landlord use my deposit for damages?
No, the rent deposit can only be used for last month's rent, not for damages.
Can a landlord require a key deposit?
Yes, if it’s refundable and does not exceed the cost of replacement for keys or entry devices.
When must my landlord return my key deposit?
Upon returning all keys or entry devices at the end of your tenancy.
Is a pet deposit allowed?
No, Ontario law does not allow pet deposits or fees in most cases.
Can my landlord ask for post-dated cheques?
No, but you may provide them if you wish. It cannot be required.
How do I pay my rent?
By the method specified in your lease, typically cash, cheque, or e-transfer.
What happens if I pay my rent late?
Your landlord can give you an N4 notice for late payment, but cannot immediately evict you.
Can my landlord charge a late fee?
No, charging late fees for rent is not allowed in Ontario.
What should I do if I can’t pay my rent?
Contact your landlord, pay what you can, and seek help from local resources. You can also explain your situation to the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Can the landlord raise rent above the guideline?
Only with approval from the Landlord and Tenant Board for certain reasons, such as renovations or tax increases.
What form does my landlord use to give notice of a rent increase?
Form N1 is used to give a legal rent increase notice. See: N1: Notice of Rent Increase.
What if I think the rent increase is unlawful?
You can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T1 if you believe the increase is above guidelines or not properly served: T1: Tenant Application for a Rebate.
Can my rent go up if my building is new?
Most units first occupied after November 15, 2018, may be exempt from rent control rules, allowing higher increases.
Is there a maximum rent a landlord can charge?
No, initial rent is set by the landlord, but increases are regulated for most tenancies.
What if my landlord didn’t give proper notice for a rent increase?
The increase is not valid until proper notice is given. Continue paying your old rent.
What if I overpaid my rent?
You can apply for a rebate from the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T1: T1 Application.
Can the landlord demand the last month’s rent deposit again if the rent increases?
Yes, with each rent increase, the landlord can ask you to top up your rent deposit to the new monthly amount.
What form do I use to dispute a rent increase above guideline?
Use Form T1 for a rebate or T6 for other issues. LTB Forms.
Can I withhold rent for repairs?
No, you must continue to pay rent. File Form T6 for maintenance issues instead: T6: Tenant Application About Maintenance.
What should I do if my landlord gives me an N4 notice for late rent?
Pay the rent and any arrears listed on the notice within 14 days to cancel the eviction process.
Can my landlord require a damage deposit?
No, damage deposits are not legal for residential tenancies in Ontario.
What is Form N4 and when is it used?
N4: Notice to End Tenancy for Non-payment of Rent. Issued if you haven’t paid rent on time. N4 Form.
How can I prove I paid my rent?
Keep receipts, e-transfer records, or cheque images as proof of payment.
Is my landlord required to give me a rent receipt?
Yes, if requested, your landlord must provide a free rent receipt.
Can my landlord increase rent for extra people?
No, unless the tenancy agreement allows or with approval from the Board.
What happens to my deposit if I renew my lease?
Your rent deposit carries over and covers your last month under the new or continued tenancy.
Do rent deposits accrue interest?
Yes, your landlord must pay you interest yearly at the same rate as the annual rent increase guideline.
When is the rent deposit due?
Usually when you sign the lease, before you move in.
Can my landlord ask for a deposit after I move in?
Only if you haven’t paid one yet; otherwise, it cannot be demanded again.
If my landlord sells the property, who holds my rent deposit?
The new owner is responsible for your rent deposit and last month’s rent.
How do I get my deposit back if I don’t use it for last month’s rent?
Landlords must return any unused deposit at the end of your tenancy.
Can my landlord ask for a cleaning deposit?
No, cleaning deposits are not allowed in Ontario.
How much notice do I need to give to move out at the end of my lease?
Usually 60 days written notice for monthly leases; check lease terms for details.
What if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
You can file a T1 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board: T1 Form.
What documents should I keep related to my tenancy?
Lease agreement, rent payment receipts, deposit receipts, and all communications.
What official body handles rent disputes in Ontario?
The Landlord and Tenant Board handles all residential rent and deposit disputes in Ontario.
What law governs rent and deposits in Ontario?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 covers all rent and deposit matters in Ontario.
Can my landlord increase the rent during a fixed-term lease?
No, rent can only be increased after a 12-month period and with proper notice, even in a fixed-term lease.
Is my landlord allowed to demand rent in cash only?
No, you cannot be forced to pay by cash only; you have the right to reasonable payment options.
What if my rent is subsidized or RGI (rent-geared-to-income)?
Special rules apply; contact your housing provider or the Landlord and Tenant Board for details.
Can I agree to pay higher rent than allowed by law?
No, rent increases above the guideline are not enforceable unless approved by the Board.
If rent is due on a weekend or holiday, when should I pay?
Pay on or before the next business day to avoid being late.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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