Every term, explained.

Rent increase above the annual provincial guideline (2.5% in 2025). Requires LTB approval and only allowed for capital expenditures or major repairs.

Transferring your lease to another tenant with landlord consent. Different from subletting — assignor releases all rights.

Self-contained unit with no separate bedroom. Bathroom and kitchenette included.

Illegal in Ontario. Landlords can only collect first + last month rent. Anything else is unenforceable.

Series of LTB forms landlords use to start eviction. Each has a minimum notice period and grounds. Tenants can dispute at the LTB.

The mandatory Ontario residential lease form since April 2018. Non-standard clauses are unenforceable.

The maximum legal deposit in Ontario. Held by the landlord and applied to your last month's rent at end of tenancy.

Someone (parent, employer) who agrees to pay your rent if you can't. Often required for tenants without strong credit or income history.

Landlord lockouts, utility shut-offs, or threats without LTB order. All illegal under the RTA. Damages payable to tenant up to $25,000.

Maximum $20 in Ontario, refundable at end of tenancy. Anything above is illegal.

Ontario tribunal that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants. Online forms, scheduled hearings, binding orders.

Colloquial term for assignment. Common in mid-lease moves (job relocations, etc.).

What every fixed-term lease becomes after the initial term expires. Same rent + terms; either party can end with proper notice.

Landlord must give 90 days written notice for any rent increase. Once per 12 months max.

Ontario's main rental law. Defines tenant + landlord rights, deposit rules, eviction process, rent control. Overrides most lease terms.

Provincial annual cap on rent increases. 2.5% for 2025 (2024 was 2.5%, 2023 was 2.5%). Set by Ontario government each fall.

Optional but recommended. Covers your belongings (the landlord's policy doesn't) plus liability. Typically $20–$40/month.

See Form 2229. Mandatory in Ontario since April 2018 for all residential tenancies.

Renting your unit to another person while keeping your name on the lease. Landlord consent required; you remain liable.

Summitly's tenant verification badge. $49/year covers ID + credit + employment + references + history. Instant-apply across all Exclusive rentals.

Synonym for lease. Ontario law requires it in writing using Form 2229 since 2018.

Heat, hydro, water — which (if any) are bundled in your rent. Always read the lease line; most condos include water + maintenance but not hydro.

Summitly's agentic rental AI. Voice + chat in 50+ languages. Search, lease review, deposit guidance, verification help.