The Real Life of Renting in the GTA
Renting in the GTA isn’t always as simple as it looks on Tiktok. Confusing lease agreements, noisy neighbours, that one faucet that always drip and the day to day life of a renter comes with plenty of “wait, what?” moments.
True to life renters stories with smart tips from Ontario’s rental rules that can save you from stress and money.
The “Who Fixes This?”
You’re halfway through cooking dinner when the stove burner decides it’s done for the night. What more worse is when you wake up, step into the shower and no hot water or other plumbing issues that prevent you from morning shower. Wow! that is so frustrating.
In Ontario, landlords are legally responsible for repairs and maintenance that includes appliances, plumbing, heat, pest infestation and structural problems.
One tenant shared how her property management company ignored a black mold problem even though she had young kids living in the unit. This is not just unsafe but it was a violation of Ontario’s rental laws. Landlords must provide a safe, healthy living space. If they refuse, tenants can file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
When It’s on You - Tenant Negligence
Not everything is the landlord’s responsibility. Tenants also have obligations and negligence can get expensive.
A renter left a window wide open during a storm. The entire living room flooded, damaging the floors. The landlord fixed it but billed the tenant for the repairs since it was caused by negligence.
Examples of Tenant Negligence
Leaving candles or stoves unattended that leads to fire
Forgetting to turn off taps causing a flood
Ignoring small leaks or issues until they became big problems
Not keeping the property clean leading to pest
Damaging walls, flooring or appliances through misuse
The Ontario Law clearly stated, tenants must keep the place reasonably clean and avoid causing damage whether by accident or carelessness. If something breaks due to negligence, you can be held financially responsible.
The Rent Payment Puzzle
Another tenant told me they paid cash every month then the landlord claim they “never paid”.
Here’s the deal, always pay by e-transfer or cheque and ask for receipts. Landlords in Ontario must provide them upon request.
The Lease Agreement Surprise
Many renters rush into signing without reading the fine print but here’s something most don’t know, Ontario requires landlords to use the Standard Lease Agreement.
A renter shared how her landlord asked her family to lie to the city about part of the house being rented by another tenants so he could avoid paying taxes. That’s not only shady, it puts tenants in a tough legal spot. Remember, you don’t have to cover for a landlord’s obligations. It is important to seek advice before signing.
“Can I?” Questions
Can I paint the bedroom? Adopt a cat? Put up a floating shelves? The answer is ask first and get it in writing if the landlord approved.
Rent Smart
Protect your rights, stay organized and make smart decisions. Here’s the short list of must dos:
Prepare your documents
Budget for utilities, parking and tenant insurance
Keep a digital file of your lease and rent receipts
Always get promises in writing
I’ve created a comprehensive renter’s guide that covers everything you need to know. Check the full guide here angelesrealestate.ca because the more you know, the more confident your renting experience will be.
Marie Jain Angeles, Realtor
Direct Line: (416) 857-5246
email: angelesrealestate@outlook.com
Jayson Angeles, Realtor
Direct Line: (647) 994-5246
email: jangelesrealestate@outlook.com
Right at Home Realty
480 Eglinton Ave. W Suite 30
Mississauga, Ontario L5R 0G2
Tel: (905) 565-9200
