What Can and Can't a Landlord Ask You in Ontario?

When looking for an apartment in Ontario, you’ll often find that landlords request a hefty amount of information from you. References, credit checks, employment verification—the list goes on. In the clamber of finding a new residence, you’ll want to be sure your potential new landlord isn’t asking questions beyond the scope of your ability to finance and care for the property.

What Can Landlords Request from Prospective Tenants?

  • Documents to prove sufficient income

Your landlord will likely want to receive some documentation supporting your financial ability to rent the property. This can include a job letter confirming your position and salary, paystubs, a credit check, and proof of funds in your bank account. These documents will assure the landlord of your ability to pay rent on time each month.

  • References from past landlords

To determine that you have been in good standing with previous landlords, a new landlord may request a references to ensure there is no history of late or unpaid rental payments, damages to previous properties in your name, or other important circumstances to consider relating to your tenant record.

  • Whether you have pets

While most landlords in Ontario are not able to evict you for owning a pet, they are allowed to reject your rental application for owning a pet.

What Landlords Cannot Request from Prospective Tenants

  • Any information regarding your marital status, family status, or sexual orientation

  • Whether you receive public assistance

  • Whether you are a Canadian citizen

  • Your age, sex, or gender

  • Your race, ethnic background, or religion

  • Whether you have any disabilities

If a landlord requests any information pertaining to the above mentioned topics, you should not answer. They are not allowed to do so per the Ontario Human Rights Code. Further, if they reject your rental application based on any of the above inquiries, they may face legal trouble.

Optional Questions:

  • Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

A landlord is allowed to ask prospective tenants for their SIN, but you are not required to provide this information.

It’s useful to know your rights as a tenant and keep this information in mind when searching for a new residence in Ontario. For more information regarding the Ontario Human Rights Code, see ohrc.on.ca.

Kira Cox