Renting a room in Ontario: what to know before you move in
Renting a room is often the most affordable way to live in Ontario, especially in the GTA, Ottawa and university cities. It also comes with a few rules that are different from renting a whole apartment. Here is what to check before you agree to anything.
1. Find out who else lives in the home
This matters more than most renters realize. Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) covers most rentals, but it generally does not apply if you share a kitchen or bathroom with the owner (or certain close family members of the owner) who live in the same home.
- Owner lives there and you share a kitchen or bathroom with them: the RTA usually doesn't apply. The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) can't hear disputes, and the rules on notice, deposits and evictions in the RTA don't protect you. Your agreement with the owner is what counts.
- Owner doesn't live there (for example, a house rented room by room to several people): the RTA usually applies, even though you share a kitchen with other tenants.
If you're not sure, ask the landlord directly: "Do you or your family live here, and will I share the kitchen or bathroom with you?"
2. Get the agreement in writing
Whether or not the RTA applies, write down the basics: rent, what's included (utilities, internet, laundry, parking), the start date, how much notice either side must give, and any house rules. If the RTA applies, most landlords must use Ontario's standard lease.
3. Ask the right questions on the tour
- How many people live in the home, and who shares the bathroom?
- Is the room furnished? Does it lock?
- Which utilities are included, and is there a cap on usage?
- Are guests allowed overnight? Are there quiet hours?
- Where can I store food, and is there laundry on site?
- How is rent paid, and will I get receipts?
4. Be careful with money
Never send a deposit for a room you haven't seen in person or by a live video tour. A common scam is a "landlord" who is out of the country and asks for e-Transfer first. For rentals covered by the RTA, the only deposits a landlord can ask for are a rent deposit and a refundable key deposit.
5. Know how to end the arrangement
If the RTA applies, a monthly tenant generally gives at least 60 days' written notice (Form N9) ending on the last day of a rental period. If the RTA doesn't apply, follow what your written agreement says, so make sure it says something.
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