Renting your first place in Ontario? Whether you’re moving into a condo, apartment, or basement unit, it’s important to understand your rights, responsibilities, and what to expect as a tenant. This guide will walk you through key information every new renter should know in Ontario—and provide a practical tip for protecting your access with spare keys or fobs.
1. Know Your Rights Under the Law
As a tenant in Ontario, you’re protected under the Residential Tenancies Act. This legislation outlines what landlords can and can’t do, including:
- Rent increases: In most cases, landlords can only raise the rent once every 12 months and must give you at least 90 days’ written notice. There’s also a cap on how much they can increase, which the government updates annually.
- Evictions: A landlord can’t just kick you out. There are strict rules for when and how a landlord can terminate a tenancy.
- Repairs and maintenance: Landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental unit in a good state of repair—this includes plumbing, heating, and any appliances provided.
📘 For a full breakdown, check out Ontario’s official renting rights page or CERA’s Renters Guide PDF.
2. Understand the Lease Agreement
Before moving in, you’ll sign a lease—this is a binding contract. Most rentals now use Ontario’s standard lease form, which helps ensure fair and transparent agreements.
Be sure to review:
- Lease term (e.g., 12 months or month-to-month)
- Utilities (What’s included? What do you pay separately?)
- Rules (Any restrictions on guests, pets, or smoking?)
3. Security Deposits and Key Fees
In Ontario, landlords are allowed to collect a key deposit—but only if it’s refundable and no more than the cost of replacing the key or fob. They cannot charge you for things like cleaning deposits or last month’s rent plus an additional security deposit.
4. Tenant Insurance Is a Smart Move
While not legally required, many landlords do ask for proof of tenant insurance. It’s an affordable way to protect your belongings in case of fire, water damage, or theft.
5. Protect Your Access With Backup Keys and Fobs
One thing many new renters overlook? Access.
Imagine losing your only key or fob—and being locked out late at night. Replacing locks or paying emergency locksmith fees can be expensive and stressful. The best solution? Make an extra copy while you still have your original.
✅ At MiniFob and FobToronto, we offer fast key and key fob duplication services. All you need is your original copy—no need to wait until it’s lost or broken.
📍 You can use our service checker or visit any of our locations to see if your key or fob is eligible.
6. Thinking About Renting Out a Room or Space?
If you’re considering listing a room or unit on Airbnb or another platform, make sure you understand local short-term rental rules. We’ve written a full guide on Ontario’s Short-Term Rental Regulations—and yes, we can help with extra fobs for guests (as long as you meet the lawful conditions).
Final Thoughts: What New Renters Need to Know in Ontario
Renting in Ontario doesn’t have to be overwhelming—just make sure you’re informed. From understanding your lease to protecting your access with backup keys and fobs, being prepared makes all the difference.
Need a spare key or fob?
Stop by MiniFob or our headquarters at FobToronto. Most copies take just minutes—and save you from major headaches down the road.
Recent Comments