Standard Form of Lease
Required
Most residential rentals in Ontario must use the government's Standard Lease. It spells out rent, deposits, utilities and rules in plain language.
HomeLife Miracle Realty Ltd., Brokerage
HomeLife Miracle Realty Ltd., Brokerage
Looking for a place to rent, or a reliable tenant for your property? I help tenants find the right rental and help landlords lease faster, with clear advice on Ontario's Standard Lease and rental rules.
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Search Rentals
Browse rentals in Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph and Woodstock on my search site. See one you like? Send me the link and I'll arrange a showing and help with your application.
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Found a rental you like? Send it to me and I'll book the showing.
For Tenants
Here's the path from your first call to move-in day, including the one moment where things can change direction.
Area, budget, bedrooms, move-in date, pets and parking. I'll set up a search for rentals that fit.
ID, proof of income, a credit report and references. Good rentals move fast, so have them ready before you tour.
In person or by video. I'll point out what to check, from parking and utilities to who handles repairs.
I'll help you put together a strong application and present it to the landlord.
Most Ontario rentals must use the official Standard Form of Lease. I'll go through it with you before you sign.
Usually first month's rent and a last month's rent deposit. Then arrange tenant insurance and utilities if they aren't included.
Walk through the unit with the landlord and take dated photos, so everyone agrees on its condition.
Tenant Checklist
Landlords often choose the first complete, well-organized application. Have these ready before you start touring.
A driver's licence, passport or other government-issued ID for each adult on the lease.
A recent employment letter and pay stubs. Self-employed? Bring tax returns or bank statements.
A recent credit report from Equifax or TransUnion. New to Canada? Ask me what else can help.
Contact details for a past landlord and your employer.
Filled out completely for every adult who will live there.
Usually first month's rent and a last month's rent deposit, paid once your application is accepted.
Many landlords ask for proof of tenant insurance before you move in.
If you have a pet, share its type, size and a reference from a past landlord.
For Landlords
Whether it's a house, condo, townhouse or basement unit, I'll help you set the right rent, find a qualified tenant and get the lease done properly.
I compare similar rentals nearby so your unit is priced to lease quickly without leaving money on the table.
Clear photos, an MLS® listing and organized showings, so you don't have to take every call yourself.
I collect complete applications and help you review income, credit and references before you choose.
The Ontario Standard Lease filled out properly, deposits collected the legal way, and a move-in inspection.
Good for:
Ontario Rules
Knowing the basics protects both sides. Here are the rules that come up most often in Ontario rentals.
Required
Most residential rentals in Ontario must use the government's Standard Lease. It spells out rent, deposits, utilities and rules in plain language.
1 month max
A landlord can ask for a deposit of no more than one month's rent, used only for the last month. The landlord must pay interest on it every year.
Not allowed
Damage, security and pet deposits aren't allowed. A refundable key deposit is the only other deposit a landlord can collect.
2.1% · 1.9%
The limit is 2.1% for 2026 and 1.9% for 2027, once every 12 months with 90 days' written notice. Units first occupied after November 15, 2018 are exempt.
No-pet clauses void
A lease can't ban pets, so a "no pets" clause can't be enforced. Condo rules that ban pets are an exception.
24 hours' notice
Landlords need to give 24 hours' written notice, with a reason, to enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Emergencies are an exception.
Ontario has made several changes to tenancy rules in 2026. For anything not covered here, check with the Landlord and Tenant Board or ask me.
Ask Me a Rental QuestionGeneral information only, not legal advice. Rules can change. Last checked October 2026.
Free Rental Guides
Free Ontario checklists for renting or leasing out a home. Enter your details and I'll email your copy, and you can download it right away.
ID, income, credit, references and deposits: everything for a strong application.
A room-by-room condition form for move-in and move-out, with signature lines.
Prep, screening, the Standard Lease, deposits, rent increases and entry rules.
Looking for more? See all free guides or ask me.
Local Rental Tips
Ontario’s rules apply everywhere in the province, but a few local details come up again and again with rentals in Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph and Woodstock.
Many rentals here are basement apartments or second units in a house. Tenants have the same rights in a basement unit as anywhere else. Landlords should make sure the unit meets the Building and Fire Codes and local zoning, since an unpermitted unit can create insurance and safety problems.
Rentals near the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier often run on 12-month leases that start in September or May. The City of Waterloo requires a rental housing licence for many low-rise rental properties, so landlords should check the current rules before advertising.
Hydro, gas, water and internet can be included or extra, and it makes a big difference to the real monthly cost. Whatever you agree on should be written into the Standard Lease so there are no surprises later.
Many landlords ask tenants to carry tenant insurance, and it is a good idea either way. It usually covers your belongings and your liability if something goes wrong, like a leak that damages the unit below.
If your landlord is selling or re-renting, they can enter for showings with proper written notice under the Residential Tenancies Act. Knowing these rules in advance avoids a lot of friction on both sides.
For deposits, rent increases, pets, landlord entry, maintenance and ending a tenancy, read my complete guide to how renting works in Ontario, with links to the official government sources.
Rental FAQ
Quick answers for tenants and landlords. Have a different question? Just ask.
A landlord can ask for a rent deposit of no more than one month's rent, and it must be used for your last month. They can also collect a refundable key deposit. Damage, security and pet deposits aren't allowed.
Usually photo ID, proof of income such as an employment letter and pay stubs, a credit report, references from a past landlord and employer, and a completed rental application for every adult.
For most rentals, the limit is 2.1% for 2026 and 1.9% for 2027. Rent can go up only once every 12 months, with 90 days' written notice. Units first occupied after November 15, 2018 aren't covered by this limit.
A lease can't ban pets, so a no-pets clause can't be enforced once you're a tenant. Pets that cause damage, make excessive noise or are dangerous can still be an issue, and condo rules that ban pets are an exception.
When a REALTOR® helps lease a property, the leasing fee is usually paid by the landlord, as agreed in writing with their agent. If you're a tenant working with me, I'll explain in writing how I'm paid before we start.
It depends on the rent, location, condition and time of year. A well-priced, clean unit with good photos usually rents faster. I'll suggest a rent based on similar rentals nearby.
Yes. I can explain every step in English, Punjabi, Hindi or Urdu, for tenants and landlords alike.
Jeewan Sidhu, REALTOR®Usually replies the same day
Tell me what you need and I'll help you find the right place, or the right tenant, across Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo.