Renting in Canada when you are new here

The basics in plain language

Most rentals in Canada are advertised as monthly rent. You pay rent on the first of each month. A typical lease runs for 12 months and then becomes month-to-month unless you sign a new fixed-term lease.

Most landlords ask for first and last month's rent before you move in. That means you pay two months upfront. Some buildings also charge a key deposit (refundable) and a small move-in fee. In Ontario, security deposits beyond first and last month are not allowed.

Utilities (heat, hydro, water, internet) may or may not be included. Read the lease carefully. A unit at $2,000 with heat and water included can be a better deal than a unit at $1,900 without.

Three things to check before signing

• Compare the rent to the neighbourhood range. Use Fair Rent Canada to see what other renters in the same area pay for the same unit type. Run the calculator before you commit.
• Ask what is included. Heat, water, parking, hydro, internet. Each one is worth $30 to $150 per month if you would otherwise pay separately.
• Check the rent increase rules. Ontario and BC have annual caps on rent increases for existing tenants. Newer Ontario buildings (first occupied after November 15, 2018) are exempt between tenancies. Make sure you know which category your unit falls into.

Questions every newcomer should ask

• What is the total monthly cost including utilities?
• How much is first and last month's rent? Get the exact dollar amount.
• When was the building last renovated? Newer units often rent above the area range.
• Is parking included or extra? Indoor parking can add $100 to $250 per month.
• What is the rent increase policy? Province sets the cap each year.
• Can I see the unit before I sign? Never sign for a unit you have not seen.

Rental scams and warning signs

If a listing seems much cheaper than nearby units, that is a red flag. Run the address through Fair Rent Canada to see the local range. If the rent is way below the range, ask why.

Never wire money or send e-transfers to someone you have not met, especially if they say they are out of the country and cannot show the unit. Legitimate landlords let you visit the unit before any money changes hands.

Ask for the landlord's name and contact details. Search the property address on Google to make sure it exists and matches the listing photos.