Renting an Apartment in Ontario: Essential Advice for Renters

As a newcomer to Canada, finding a comfortable place to live is one of the first steps toward settling into your new life.

In Ontario, a province known for its diversity and opportunities, renting an apartment can be both an exciting and challenging endeavor, especially for those new to Canadian living.

This guide aims to walk you through the rental process in Ontario, offering step-by-step assistance and useful tips to help you confidently navigate the market.

Whether your search is for a cozy studio or a spacious family apartment, you will find all the necessary information here to make a well-informed decision.

With a focus on the unique aspects of living in Ontario, this resource is designed to ease your transition into life in Canada, helping you find not just a place to live, but a home where you can thrive in this vibrant and welcoming region.

Before renting an apartment in Ontario, there are several critical factors to consider to ensure that your new home meets your needs and expectations:

• Budget (rent affordability and other expenses)
• Location (proximity to work, school, public transportation, amenities, and safety)
• Lease Terms (length of lease, termination policy)
• Apartment Features and Condition (size and layout, appliances, fixtures)
• Building Amenities and Policies (pet policy, noise, building amenities)
• Legal and Financial Aspects (security deposit, renter’s insurance, credit background check)
• Future Considerations (long-term needs)

Studio Apartments: Studios are the epitome of compact living. These units typically combine the living room, bedroom, and kitchen into one open space, with a separate bathroom. Studios are small but ideal for singles or couples looking for an affordable, low-maintenance living solution. They offer simplicity and efficiency, making them popular choices for students and young professionals.

One-Bedroom Apartments: These apartments provide a separate bedroom from the living area, offering more privacy and space than a studio. These are perfect for individuals or couples who need a bit more room, or who enjoy having distinct living and sleeping areas. This was our first rental, a one-bedroom apartment, which was spacious enough for my wife and me, and even accommodated our parents when they visited us for a month.

Two-Bedroom Apartments: Such apartments are excellent for small families, roommates, or those needing extra space for a home office or guests. With two separate bedrooms, these apartments offer more space and flexibility, accommodating a variety of living situations.

Basement Apartments: They are often found in private homes, offering a unique living experience. They tend to be more affordable and can provide more space than a typical studio or one-bedroom apartment. These units are great for those on a budget, though they may have less natural light compared to above-ground apartments.

Duplexes: These are single buildings divided into two separate living units, each with its own entrance. Residing in a duplex can feel more like living in a house, often with access to outdoor space. They are ideal for those seeking a balance between an apartment and a house.

Townhouses: They offer multi-floor living, often including multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. They strike a balance between the space of a house and the community feel of an apartment complex. Townhouses are perfect for families or individuals looking for more room, with the added benefit of communal amenities in some complexes.

Loft Apartments: Lofts typically feature a large, open floor plan with high ceilings and large windows. Originally converted from commercial or industrial buildings, lofts often retain elements like exposed brick walls or ductwork, offering a unique, urban aesthetic. They’re popular among those who appreciate a modern, open-concept living space.

Condominiums (Condos): While similar to apartments, condos are individually owned units within a larger complex. Renting a condo means you’re dealing directly with the owner rather than a rental management company. Condos often come with high-quality finishes, appliances, and access to amenities like gyms, pools, and security services.

Shared Apartments/Houses: In a shared arrangement, tenants rent individual rooms and share common areas like the kitchen, living room, and bathroom with other occupants. This option is economical and can be a great choice for students, young professionals, or anyone looking to save on rent and enjoy a communal living environment.

Shared Facilities in the Apartment Complex

In apartment buildings, tenants often have access to a variety of shared facilities that cater to their everyday needs and enhance their living experience.

Laundry options range from the convenience of in-unit washers and dryers to communal laundry rooms with coin-operated machines, and sometimes, residents might use nearby laundromats.

For hosting events, many complexes feature party rooms or social halls, which can be reserved for private functions and are typically equipped with kitchen facilities and seating arrangements.

Recreational amenities are also common, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and green spaces, offering residents leisure and relaxation opportunities right at their doorstep.

On-site management is available for maintenance requests and tenant concerns, ensuring smooth and efficient handling of any issues that arise, and providing a direct line of communication for residents.

Buildings usually have on-site parking lots or garages for residents’ vehicles, offering convenience and safety, often including designated spots or secure access.

Security features such as gated entrances, security cameras, and sometimes on-site security personnel provide an added layer of safety and peace of mind for residents within the apartment complex.

When preparing to rent an apartment, especially as a newcomer in Ontario, it’s essential to approach the process with careful planning and organization. This preparation involves:

• Documents: Prepare necessary documents like proof of income, employment letter, references, and, if possible, a credit report. These documents will strengthen your rental application.
• Viewing Apartments: When viewing apartments, inspect the condition carefully. Check for signs of pests, functioning appliances, and adequate heating/cooling. Ask about maintenance and how emergency repairs are handled. It is always a good idea to record the condition of the apartment.
• Negotiating Rent: While negotiating rent is not always possible, it doesn’t hurt to try. If the apartment has been on the market for a while, or if you have strong references and a good credit score, the landlord might be open to negotiation.

Here are the benefits and drawbacks of both options:

However, a common and often viable solution is subletting. Subletting involves finding someone else to rent your apartment for the remainder of your lease term. This allows you to move out without breaching your lease agreement, as the new tenant takes over the rent payments.

However, it’s crucial to first check your lease terms and consult with your landlord, as not all rental agreements permit subletting. If allowed, you’ll be responsible for finding a reliable subtenant and may still be liable if the subtenant fails to pay rent or damages the property.

Always ensure proper legal procedures are followed in a subletting arrangement to protect yourself and stay compliant with your original rental agreement.

Here are the costs of renting in some popular cities in Ontario, providing a snapshot of the diverse rental landscape across this province:

As you navigate the varied and dynamic world of renting an apartment in Ontario, armed with knowledge about the different types of apartments and the costs associated with each city, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision.

Whether you opt for the bustling streets of Toronto or the serene landscapes of smaller towns, Ontario’s rental market offers something for everyone.

Embrace this exciting phase of finding a place that not only meets your living needs but also enhances your lifestyle. With each city offering its unique charm and a range of rental options, your perfect Ontario home awaits, ready to be the backdrop for your new adventures and cherished memories in Canada.