Signing a lease agreement is one of the most important steps when securing Off-Campus housing, yet many students rush through the process without fully understanding their rights and responsibilities. Lease-related issues are common, but they can often be avoided by taking proactive measures before putting pen to paper. The first and most crucial step is to have your lease reviewed by the Off-Campus Living Advisor (OCLA) at your university. These professionals are trained to identify clauses that are against the Residential Tenancies Act and major red flags. Their guidance can prevent costly mistakes and give you peace of mind before committing to a rental.
In Ontario, the Standard Lease Agreement is required for most types of rentals. This standardized document protects both tenants and landlords by clearly outlining the terms of the tenancy, including rent amount, payment due dates, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding guests or subletting. Be wary if a landlord provides a custom lease or adds unnecessary clauses—these may include illegal terms that violate your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). For example, a landlord cannot legally prohibit pets (unless the property is a condo with its own pet restrictions), demand post-dated cheques, or require you to perform property maintenance like mowing the lawn or shoveling snow unless these tasks are explicitly agreed upon.
If you encounter questionable clauses, address them respectfully with your landlord. Politely point out that certain demands—such as banning pets or charging excessive cleaning fees—are unenforceable under Ontario law. Many landlords may not realize they’re overstepping, so a calm conversation can often resolve the issue. However, if they insist on including illegal terms, consider it a red flag and reconsider renting from them. Document all communication in writing (emails or texts) to protect yourself in case of future disputes.
Another critical aspect of lease agreements is understanding maintenance and repair obligations. Landlords are legally required to ensure the property meets health and safety standards, including working heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. If something breaks due to normal wear and tear (e.g., a leaky faucet or a malfunctioning appliance), the landlord is responsible for repairs—not the tenant. However, tenants are expected to keep the unit reasonably clean and report issues promptly to avoid further damage.
Security deposits are another area where landlords often overstep. In Ontario, they can only collect a rent deposit (last month’s rent) and a key deposit (if applicable). They cannot ask for additional deposits for cleaning, pets, or “damage insurance.” If a landlord demands extra fees upfront, this is a violation of the RTA.
Finally, know your options if conflicts arise after signing the lease. The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the governing body that handles disputes, and tenants can file applications if a landlord refuses to make repairs, unlawfully enters the unit, or attempts an illegal eviction. Universities often provide legal support services to help students navigate these processes.
By taking the time to review your lease with OCLA, recognizing illegal clauses, and understanding your rights, you can avoid common rental pitfalls and ensure a fair, stress-free living situation. A well-negotiated lease sets the foundation for a positive tenant-landlord relationship and a smoother Off-Campus experience overall.