Top 50 Questions: Leases & Agreements in Ontario

Leases & Agreements Ontario published: June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
What is a standard lease in Ontario?
The standard lease is a government-mandated rental contract required for most residential tenancies in Ontario.
Do I need to sign a written lease in Ontario?
Landlords must use the Standard Form of Lease for most new tenancies since April 30, 2018.
Where can I find the Ontario Standard Lease form?
Download it from Ontario’s official site here.
What happens if my landlord doesn’t give me a standard lease?
You can request one in writing. If not provided in 21 days, you may legally withhold one month’s rent.
What if I still don’t get a lease after withholding rent?
You are not required to repay the withheld rent, but your tenancy still continues.
Can my lease contain extra rules?
Only if those rules do not contradict the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
Who enforces lease rules in Ontario?
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) enforces tenancy laws and resolves disputes.
Which law governs residential leases in Ontario?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 regulates most rental agreements.
Does my lease need to be in English?
No, but both landlord and tenant must understand the lease language.
What if I lose my copy of the lease?
You can request another copy from your landlord.
Is a verbal rental agreement valid in Ontario?
Yes, but your landlord still must provide a written standard lease if you request it.
Can my rent be raised during my lease term?
Only after 12 months and with at least 90 days’ written notice using Form N1.
What if my lease says something different than the law?
The Residential Tenancies Act always overrides terms that are inconsistent with the law.
Can a landlord refuse to renew my lease?
Leases automatically go month-to-month after the original term unless you both agree to a new term.
How do I end my lease early?
Give proper written notice, use Form N9, and follow the lease or RTA rules.
Does a lease automatically renew?
Yes, it continues as month-to-month if you stay and don’t sign a new lease.
Do I have to move out when my fixed-term lease ends?
No, you can stay as a month-to-month tenant unless you give notice or the landlord has legal grounds to end the tenancy.
Can I break my lease if I find someone to take over?
Yes, with your landlord’s written approval. This is called an assignment; request it in writing.
What’s the difference between subletting and assigning?
Assignment permanently transfers your lease; subletting means someone else lives there temporarily but you remain responsible.
Can my landlord refuse to let me assign or sublet?
Only with a valid reason; refusal without a good reason lets you give 30 days’ notice to end your lease.
Does the law protect me if my landlord adds illegal terms?
Yes, unenforceable terms do not apply, even if you signed the lease.
Can my landlord demand more than one month’s rent for deposit?
Only one month’s rent can be collected as a rent deposit.
Is a “no pets” rule allowed in Ontario?
No, “no pets” clauses are generally unenforceable under Ontario law.
Can a landlord ban smoking in the lease?
Yes, landlords may include a non-smoking clause in new leases.
What if my lease conflicts with the RTA?
The RTA always takes priority over the lease.
Can my landlord ask for a key deposit?
Yes, but only in an amount equal to the cost of replacing the keys.
Can rules be changed after I sign a lease?
Only if both you and your landlord agree in writing, unless required by law.
What fees are illegal in an Ontario lease?
Charges for guests, pets, or entry fees (other than lawful deposits) are not allowed.
Can I get out of my lease if I am a victim of domestic violence?
Yes, you can give 28 days’ notice using Form N15.
Is an email agreement to rent binding?
Yes, a rental agreement in writing, including email, is usually binding in Ontario.
Do all rental units require a standard lease?
Most do; exceptions include certain care homes, co-ops, and commercial units.
Must my landlord provide receipts for rent?
Yes, you can request a receipt for any rent payment and your landlord must provide it.
Can I get my rent deposit back?
The rent deposit is applied to your last month’s rent, not returned as cash.
Are there rules about renting with roommates?
Yes, all tenants listed on the lease are equally responsible for rent and damages.
Can my landlord change the locks?
Only if you agree or the Landlord and Tenant Board authorizes it, and you must be given new keys.
Can I be charged for returned (NSF) cheques?
Yes, up to $20 per returned cheque is allowed.
Are discounts or incentives in leases binding?
Yes, if agreed to in the signed lease, they are enforceable.
What form do I use to give notice to move out?
Use Form N9: Tenant’s Notice to End Tenancy.
Can I sign a lease if I am under 18?
Yes, age does not prevent you from entering a binding lease in Ontario.
Do I need a co-signer for my lease?
Landlords may require a co-signer, but it’s not required by law.
Can the landlord refuse to rent to me based on income source?
No, discrimination based on lawful source of income is not allowed.
What should I do if my landlord wants to change lease terms?
You do not have to agree; changes need mutual written consent unless required by law.
Must a new landlord honour my existing lease?
Yes, the terms remain the same when a rental property is sold.
What happens if my lease is not renewed?
You become a month-to-month tenant with the same rules and rights.
Can the landlord refuse my rent payment?
Landlords must accept rent unless they have a legal order to evict.
Whose name should be on the lease?
All adult tenants should be listed, and the landlord or property manager.
Can my lease require post-dated cheques?
No, you cannot be forced to provide post-dated cheques by law.
Is a digital signature on a lease valid?
Yes, digital or electronic signatures are legally valid if both parties agree.
What’s the role of the Landlord and Tenant Board?
The LTB resolves disputes and enforces Ontario’s rental laws. Visit the LTB.
How do I challenge an illegal lease clause?
Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board to apply for a hearing and enforce your rights.
Where can I get tenant support or advice?
Contact the LTB or Ontario’s rental housing enforcement unit for official help.

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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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