| |
|
According to national and provincial laws, both you and your landlord have certain rights and responsibilities:
|
| |
Tip |
|
| |
If something happens and you cannot return to your rental for a few days, some renters insurance will cover temporary housing or pay the bill to move to a new location. Check with an insurance agent for further information.
|
|
|
What landlords can ask you:
- If you can afford the rent. They can request references from previous landlords and your credit history. They can also ask you where you work and how much you earn.
- To take proper care of the rental unit. Expect them to contact your previous landlords. They can ask about pets, smoking habits and anyone who will be living with you.
- To provide a security deposit (in most provinces*). A security deposit protects the landlord in the event of: non-payment of rent, moving out without giving proper notice, damages to the rental unit and cleaning of the unit for the next tenant.
*Security deposit policies vary by province so you may not have to pay one. Click here for links to each province's regulations.
What landlords CANNOT ask you:
Landlords cannot ask you for personal information that is protected by human rights legislation. This includes:
- Your family plans
- How many children you have
- Your religion, sexual orientation, marital status or ethnic background
Some rental applications may request your Social Insurance Number; legally you do not have to disclose it.
Things landlords must provide:
- Premises that are safe and in good repair
- Reasonable supply of any utilities listed in the rental agreement. (You are responsible for obtaining and paying for utilities not listed in the rental agreement.)
- Regular maintenance and upkeep of the premises
Things landlords may not do:
- Harass you
- Seize your property for non-payment of rent, unless ordered by the courts or otherwise permitted by law
What you should know as a tenant:
- You cannot withhold rent over a dispute or to pay for repairs.
- You can be evicted for non-payment of rent, even if you pay a day late. Some provinces do allow a grace period; click here for a link to the laws in your province.
- You must keep the premises clean and in good repair. You are responsible for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
- In the event of a serious problem, issue or repair need, you should contact your landlord immediately.
- You may not harass your landlord.
- You must allow future tenants to occupy the premises providing that your landlord provides adequate notice of the termination of your rental.
- Your landlord's insurance policy may NOT cover your personal belongings in such events as theft, fire and vandalism. It also does not usually cover any costs (e.g. medical liability) if someone gets hurt in your rental unit. Before renting, check to see what your landlord's insurance does and does not cover. To protect yourself and your personal belongings, consider tenant's insurance, which can be surprisingly affordable.
Did you know? |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
RBC Insurance® offers renters insurance. Request a free and confidential quote online today. |
|
 |
|
 |
Each province also has its own regulations about renting. Before you rent, make sure you know how your province's laws apply to such matters as:
- Signed lease documents
- Security and key deposits
- Lease renewal and termination
- Subletting
- Rent increases
- Late rent payments
- Evictions
- Pets and smoking
- Conditions under which the landlord may enter the rented premises
Click here for links to laws relating to residential rentals in each of the provinces and territories.
If you and your landlord have a dispute:
- Review your rental agreement. Most will outline the steps for dispute resolution.
- Check your legal rights and responsibilities in your province. (Click here for a link to your province's laws.)
- Follow your jurisdiction's dispute resolution process, or the process set out in your rental agreement. By not following the process, you may actually harm your case.
|
|
