Understanding rights and responsibilities is crucial for both landlords and tenants. This blog post educates tenants on three key areas of tenant responsibilities: monthly rent payments, notice to vacate, and ongoing maintenance and care. As a tenant in Ontario, knowing your obligations helps maintain positive relationships with landlords and protects your tenancy rights.
1. Tenant Payment and Rent Obligations
Tenants are responsible for paying their rent in full and on time, just as a property owner is responsible for paying their mortgage in full and on time. The most common mistake tenants make is neglecting to inform landlords or property management companies when cheques or automated payments will bounce due to insufficient funds. This results in tenants paying bank NSF fees and landlord or property management company administrative fees, often adding an extra $50 to $75 to that month’s rent.
We have two important tips for tenants:
- Communicate Proactively: Inform your property management company or landlord as soon as you know you won’t have enough funds in your account. You can ask if they’re open to accommodating an adjustment, perhaps withdrawing the funds later in the day, or the following day, or arranging for you to pay through another method.
Note that this is not a requirement of the landlord or property management company. In fact, many will not, rightfully, as they often rely on that money to pay their mortgage. If they oblige, ensure you take action to ensure it doesn’t become the norm or you may find an eviction notice around the corner. - Use Overdraft Protection: Enroll in overdraft protection for enough money to cover your rent based on a zero balance. This ensures that even if you don’t have the funds, the overdraft protection kicks in, covering the rent payment and avoiding costly fees. The cost of this service is usually less than the fees you’ll incur if it happens one time.
Additional rent payment best practices:
- Always keep proof of payment (receipts, bank statements)
- Understand your payment methods and deadlines
- Set up payment reminders 3-4 days before due dates
- Know that consistent late payments can be grounds for eviction
- Familiarize yourself with Ontario’s rent payment regulations
2. Tenant Obligations for Maintenance and Property Care
Be sure to familiarize yourself with what you’re responsible for in your house. Generally speaking, tenants are responsible for things that wear quickly based on their use, this includes light bulbs, water and air filters, among other things.
You’re also responsible for maintaining the house in a way that doesn’t cause issues. For example, neglecting to prevent an excessive amount of hair from going into the shower drain could result in you picking up the tab for a clogged drain. Or, failing to clean up crumbs and food waste that results in pest or insect issues could fall upon you to pay repairs for.
Common tenant maintenance responsibilities in Ontario:
- Regular cleaning and sanitation of the rental unit
- Replacement of light bulbs, batteries in smoke detectors
- Changing furnace filters (typically every 3 months)
- Minor plumbing maintenance (drain strainers, basic clogs)
- Lawn care and snow removal (unless specified otherwise in lease)
- Proper garbage disposal and recycling
- Preventing damage from negligence or improper use
- Reporting major maintenance issues promptly to landlords
Important distinction: While tenants handle day-to-day maintenance, landlords are responsible for major repairs and ensuring the property meets health and safety standards under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act.
3. Tenant Renewal and Termination Procedures
It’s important to understand your obligations when informing your landlord or property management company if you’d like to vacate the property. They are required to inform you if they want to move in or evict you for other permitted purposes.
Generally speaking, tenants are required to provide 60 days from the date the notice is provided, and it must also be the last day of a tenancy period. For example, if you pay your rent on the first of the month and you submit this notice on June 3rd, 2024, your notice must state that your last day of tenancy will be August 31, 2024, which is the first end of a tenancy period following the 60 days of notice.
Key notice requirements for tenants:
- 60 days written notice is standard for month-to-month tenancies
- Notice must be given on Form N9 (Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy)
- Notice period must align with rental payment periods
- Fixed-term leases automatically convert to month-to-month unless proper notice is given
- You remain responsible for rent until the end of the notice period
- Proper documentation and proof of notice delivery is essential
4. Additional Tenant Responsibilities to Consider
Insurance Requirements
While not legally required, tenants should obtain renters insurance to protect personal belongings and provide liability coverage. Landlord insurance does not cover tenant possessions.
Utility Payments
Understand which utilities you’re responsible for paying (usually electricity, gas, water if separately metered) and ensure accounts are transferred to your name upon moving in.
Guest and Occupancy Limits
Most leases specify occupancy limits and rules about long-term guests. Violating these can be grounds for eviction.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Tenant Responsibilities
Remember that these discussions are based on our knowledge of the Residential Tenancy Act in Ontario, Canada, when writing this blog. Tenants and Landlords would be well advised to familiarize themselves with the Act and hire legal counsel for specific situations.
By understanding and fulfilling your responsibilities as a tenant, you can:
- Maintain positive relationships with landlords
- Protect your security deposit and rental history
- Avoid costly fees and legal issues
- Ensure a smooth tenancy experience
- Build good references for future rentals
Need Help Understanding Your Tenant Rights?
If you’re a tenant looking for a property or a Landlord requiring property management services, contact us today. At Renti, we believe in transparent communication and helping both tenants and landlords understand their rights and responsibilities under Ontario law.
