Tenants
Landlords
Tenants
Do’s:
- Report Any Damages Caused By Natural Events As Soon As Possible
- Request The Landlord To Conduct An Inspection If There Are Suspected Infestations
- Have A Lawyer Or Legal Clinic Review Your Rental Lease Agreement Before You Sign It
- Always Check With The Landlord Before Making Substantial Changes To The Rental Unit
- Request Changes To The Agreement In Writing
Don’ts:
- Do Not Allow Entry For Non-Urgent Matters If A 24-Hour Notice Has Not Been Provided
- Do Not Sign Any Agreements Or Documents Before Reading All Clauses
- Do Not Stop Paying Rent, Despite Conflicts With The Landlord
Landlords
Do’s:
- Require Income Verification From Potential Tenants
- Ask For A Letter Of Reference And Contact Information From Past Landlords
- Ask For Permission For A Credit Check Before Agreeing To The Lease
- Go Over The Lease Agreement To Ensure There’s Clarity Between Both Parties
- Ensure Tenants Are Providing Written Requests
Don’ts:
- Go Through Appropriate Measures Before Sending Urgent Notices To The Tenant
- Do Not Interfere With The Tenant’s Day-To-Day
- Do Not Enter The Rental Unit Without A 24-Hour Written Notice, Unless Urgent
- Act In Good Faith – Communicate With Tenants Before Serving Them With Notices
- Never Shut Off Vital Services For The Rental Unit
This tip sheet is supported by Pro Bono Students Canada- Osgoode Hall Chapter