Ontario Standard Lease

In 2018 a standardized lease came into effect in Ontario, and it is mandatory for residential landlords and property management companies to use this lease with the option to add other conditions and terms.

A standard rental lease helps both parties build a contract under a government direction. It is a legally enforceable document that contains official terms and conditions, and ensures requirements for the rental unit are met and agreed to by the landlord and the renter.

Here are some highlights of the lease form.

• Parties to the Agreement: Under this section, included are the names of both the landlord and tenant
• Rental Unit: In this section, the details of the apartment, townhome or other type of unit you are renting are listed including if it is a condo property or any parking information
• Information of Contacts: Under this section, the contact information for the landlord is listed for any future communication needs.  As well, this is where the tenant can grant permission for the landlord to send notices and other communications through email
• Term of Tenancy: In this area the length of the tenancy is listed which determines the rules and regulations on giving notice to move-out
• Rent Agreement: This is the area where charges are outlined in various sections including rent payable, date rent is due, parking charges and other fees such as Non-sufficient funds issues on payments.
• Utilities and Services: Here you will find other charges that are or are not included in the rent such as air-conditioning, electricity, laundry fees and other utilities etc.
• Tenant Insurance: In this area the landlord may require the tenant obtain tenant insurance as a condition of the lease to ensure that contents and the building are protected in the case of negligence.

Other areas of the lease outline the notice period necessary to end an agreement as well as the obligations of both the residents and the landlord to maintain a property.

Landlords can add other conditions to the standard lease as long as they are signed and agreed to by the tenant(s).

Having a standard lease format protect both the tenants and the landlord and ensures that all necessary information is disclosed, and all parties understand their obligations under the contract.

You can find a copy of the standard lease online, or contact us with questions.