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Ontario Lease Agreement Compliance

Essential requirements for RTA-compliant lease agreements, mandatory clauses, and prohibited terms

Standard Lease Requirement

Since April 30, 2018, landlords in Ontario must use the standard lease form for most new tenancy agreements. Tenants can request the standard lease within 21 days if not provided.

Understanding Lease Compliance

Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act sets strict requirements for lease agreements to protect both landlords and tenants. Any lease clause that contradicts the RTA is void and unenforceable, even if both parties agree to it.

Required Lease Information

  • Legal names of all tenants and landlord
  • Rental unit address and specific unit number
  • Monthly rent amount and payment due date
  • Services and utilities included in rent
  • Rent deposit amount and purpose (first/last month)
  • Parking and storage space (if applicable)
  • Smoking rules and restrictions
  • Signature of both landlord and tenant with dates

Prohibited & Unenforceable Clauses

❌ No Pets Allowed

Ontario allows tenants to have pets regardless of lease terms (except condos with valid bylaws)

❌ No Guests or Additional Occupants

Tenants have right to reasonable enjoyment including having guests

❌ Automatic Rent Increases

Rent increases must follow RTA guidelines and proper N1 notice procedures

❌ Waiving Tenant Rights

Any clause waiving RTA rights is void and unenforceable

❌ Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Fees

Landlords cannot charge fees beyond actual bank charges incurred

❌ Post-Dated Cheques Required

Tenants can choose their payment method; landlord cannot mandate post-dated cheques

Lease Compliance Checklist

  • 1
    Use standard Ontario lease form (mandatory since April 2018)
  • 2
    Include all required information fields completely
  • 3
    Avoid any prohibited or unenforceable clauses
  • 4
    Provide tenant with signed copy within 21 days
  • 5
    Keep original lease on file for duration of tenancy
  • 6
    Use only Board-approved forms for notices and applications
  • 7
    Document all communications in writing
  • 8
    Maintain proper records of rent payments and deposits

Professional Property Management Services

Royal York Property Management ensures all lease agreements comply with Ontario RTA requirements

Learn MoreCall (833) 666-3306