What should a landlord include in a lease?

A complete lease should include: both parties' names and contact info, property address and unit description, lease term (start and end dates), rent amount and due date, deposit amount and terms, entry notice procedures, maintenance responsibility, and any special rules.

Should landlords use standard lease forms?

Ontario and Quebec require standard lease forms by law. In other provinces, standard forms are recommended but not mandatory. Using a standard form reduces errors and ensures all legally required disclosures are included.

How should a landlord document the condition of a unit?

Conduct a written move-in inspection with the tenant before they take possession. Both parties sign the inspection report. Take dated photos or video. Store these records throughout the tenancy and use them to assess move-out condition.

Can a landlord require tenants to have renters insurance?

Most provinces do not require landlords to mandate renters insurance by law, but landlords can make it a lease condition. BC and Ontario allow lease clauses requiring tenants to carry liability insurance. It is generally good practice for both parties.

What deposit rules should landlords follow?

Collect only the permitted type and amount (e.g., last month's rent in Ontario; max half month in BC; max one month in Alberta). Provide a receipt. Pay interest where required. Return within the provincial deadline with an itemized statement of any deductions.

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Landlord Guide

Landlord Lease Checklist: What Every Residential Lease Must Include

A well-drafted lease protects both you and your tenant. Use this checklist to confirm your residential lease covers everything it needs to — before handing it over.

Parties and Property

Full legal names of all landlords and tenants

Complete address of the rental unit (including unit number)

Parking space and storage locker identifiers, if applicable

Who is permitted to occupy the unit

Term and Rent

Lease start and end date (or month-to-month designation)

Monthly rent amount, in writing

Rent due date and accepted payment methods

Whether utilities are included and which ones

Last month's rent deposit amount and date collected

Rules and Restrictions

Pet policy (allowed, restricted, or prohibited)

Smoking policy

Guest and occupancy limits

Subletting and assignment provisions

Rules for noise, common areas, and amenity use

Maintenance and Repairs

How tenants report maintenance issues

Landlord's obligation to maintain the unit in good repair

Tenant responsibilities for minor maintenance (e.g., changing light bulbs)

Process for emergency repairs

Entry and Privacy

Required notice period before landlord entry (min. 24 hours in Ontario)

Circumstances allowing entry without notice (emergencies)

Legal Compliance

Use of the provincial standard lease form where required (e.g., Ontario)

No clauses that waive tenant rights under the Residential Tenancies Act

Disclosure of known issues (e.g., mold, pest history)

Fire safety information and smoke detector disclosure

Ontario Landlords: Use the Standard Lease

Since April 30, 2018, Ontario landlords must use the provincially approved Standard Lease Form for most residential tenancies. Using a different form — or omitting required disclosures — can give tenants the right to withhold rent until a compliant lease is provided.

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