What are Tenant Rights in Canada? A Newcomer’s Guide

Renting an apartment or house is often the first step for newcomers along their housing journey in Canada. While finding a home can feel overwhelming, knowing your rights as a renter will help you avoid misunderstandings, protect yourself, and enjoy your home with peace of mind. This guide explains tenant rights and responsibilities in Canada, outlines what landlords can and cannot ask, and where to find help in each province.

What Are My Rights as a Tenant in Canada?

As a renter in Canada, you have the right to:

👉 Tenant laws vary by province or territory, but the principles above apply across Canada.

Questions to Ask Before Renting a Home

Asking the right questions before signing a lease can prevent surprises later. Vital questions include:

• How much is the monthly rent, and what is included (utilities, internet, parking)?
• How long is the lease, and can I renew it?
• Are laundry facilities available in-unit or in the building?
• Are there extra costs for storage, pets, or amenities?

Read more about rental application tips for newcomers!

Newcomers can often feel squeezed by high rental costs, but there are practical ways to cut expenses. Here are 10 tips to save money on rent in Canada.

💡 Tip: Always ask for details in writing and keep a copy of your lease.

What Are Tenant & Landlord Responsibilities?

Tenant vs. Landlord Responsibilities

Canadian Rental Rules: What Tenants Cannot Do

As a tenant in Canada, there are limits to what you can do while renting. To avoid legal or financial trouble, keep in mind that tenants cannot:

• Withhold rent, even if the landlord delays repairs, non-payment can lead to eviction

• Renovate or make major changes to the property without the landlord’s permission

• Change the locks without the landlord’s permission

• Sublet or transfer (assign) your lease to someone else without the landlord’s permission.

What Can Landlords Ask and Not Ask in Canada?

Since many landlords will request a credit check, it is helpful to know how to obtain a credit card in Canada and avoid common mistakes.

What Should I Know Before Signing a Lease in Canada?

A lease is a legal contract and should clearly state:

• Names and contact information for you and your landlord.
• Monthly rent you have agreed to pay, with or without utilities, parking, cable television, or other services
• Date the rent is due, i.e., the first day of each month, and the amount of any future rental increases
• Rental period, i.e., one year or month-to-month
• Lease length (month-to-month or fixed term)
• Rules about pets, smoking, or subletting
• Repair responsibilities.

Privacy Note: Landlords must follow Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). They cannot collect personal details unrelated to renting.

🔒 If you’re unsure about anything in your lease, ask an immigrant-serving organization to review your lease before signing.

Rent Increases and Tenant Rights in Canada

Rent increases usually happen once every 12 months (on the anniversary of the lease). Landlords must follow provincial rent increase rules and:

• Abide by rent increase guidelines, for example, in Ontario, the 2025 rent increase guideline is capped at 2.5%.
• Give at least 90 days written notice before an increase takes effect.

Where Can I Find Landlord and Tenant Boards in Canada?

Each province has Landlord and Tenant laws and the rules and regulations vary.  For example, in Ontario, Canada’s largest province, the legislation is called the Residential Tenancies Act. This legislation is in place to protect renters.

If landlords and tenants disagree, they should first try to resolve it by talking. If that doesn’t work, they can apply for dispute resolution. See the provincial links below for more information for renters.

FAQs About Tenant Rights in Canada

Should I hire a real estate agent to help me find a rental?

Many newcomers find it helpful to work with a licensed real estate agent (also called a realtor) when searching for a rental home. Agents know the local market, can guide you through viewings, explain lease terms, and help you avoid scams. Want to learn more? Read our guide on Working with a Real Estate Agent to Find Rental Housing in Canada.

How do I know if a rental listing is a scam?

Be cautious of unusually low rents, requests for upfront payment before viewing, or landlords unwilling to show the property. Always use trusted platforms and sign a written lease.

👉For a full list of tips, read our guide How Newcomers Can Avoid Rental Scams.

Can my landlord enter without notice?

No. Landlords must give written notice (usually 24 hours) unless it’s an emergency.

Can I be evicted without warning?

No. Landlords must follow provincial laws and inform you in writing.

Do I need a credit history to rent in Canada?

Not always. Some landlords may accept a co-signer, a higher deposit, or references instead. Read more about renting without a credit history.

What if my landlord won’t make repairs?

You can file a complaint with your provincial landlord-tenant board.

Final Thoughts About Tenant Rights in Canada

For most newcomers, renting is the first step toward building a life in Canada. By knowing your tenant rights and responsibilities, you can avoid disputes, plan your housing costs, and live securely.

👉 Solution: Explore rental listings on Rentals for Newcomers and join our free housing webinar to learn how to rent with confidence in Canada.