Moving into your first apartment? It's exciting but also kind of overwhelming. There's a lot to figure out. Here's everything you need to know before you sign that lease and move in.
First things first: Before you start apartment hunting, learn how to spot scams. Read our guide on how to spot rental scams so you don't get ripped off.
Get Your Money Right First
Figure Out What You Can Actually Afford
Before you start looking, know your budget. A good rule of thumb is rent shouldn't be more than 30% of your monthly income. But in competitive markets, you might need to stretch that a bit.
Don't forget to budget for:
- Rent
- Utilities (if not included): electricity, water, heat, internet
- Tenant insurance (most landlords require this)
- Groceries and stuff for your place
- Getting around (bus, car, whatever)
- Phone and subscriptions
- Savings for emergencies
Save Up for the Upfront Costs
Renting costs a lot upfront. In Ontario, landlords can ask for:
- Last month's rent: One month's rent, they hold it until you move out
- Security deposit: Not allowed in Ontario for most rentals. If someone asks for this, they're breaking the law
- Key deposit: This is allowed if it's reasonable, usually $50 to $200. You get it back when you return the keys
You'll also need money for:
- First month's rent
- Moving costs (truck, movers, boxes)
- Furniture and things for your place
- First payment for tenant insurance
- Setting up utilities
Try to save at least 2 to 3 months of rent before you start seriously looking.
Check Your Credit
Most landlords check your credit. Get your credit report from TransUnion or Equifax before you apply. If you don't have much credit history (common for first-time renters), you might need references or a co-signer.
Know Your Rights in Ontario
Before you sign anything, understand your rights. Ontario has the Residential Tenancies Act that protects tenants. Here's what you need to know:
Standard Lease
Ontario requires landlords to use a standard lease form. This protects you and them. The standard lease has:
- Names of you and your landlord
- Property address and details
- How much rent and when it's due
- What's included (utilities, parking, etc.)
- Rules and who's responsible for what
- How long the lease is for
You can download the standard lease from the official Ontario guide.
Watch Out for Illegal Stuff in Leases
Some landlords try to put illegal things in leases. Even if you sign it, those parts aren't enforceable. Common illegal stuff includes:
- No pets policies (usually not enforceable, landlords can only refuse pets in specific situations)
- Rent increases above the legal limit
- Giving up your right to a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board
- Security deposits (beyond last month's rent and key deposit)
- Restrictions on guests or roommates
If you see weird stuff in a lease, you can still sign it, but know those parts don't count. If you're not sure, review the Residential Tenancies Act or talk to a lawyer or paralegal.
Rent Increases
In Ontario, rent increases are controlled. Landlords have to give you 90 days written notice before raising rent, and they usually can't go above a set limit unless the Landlord and Tenant Board approves it.
Before You Move In
See the Place in Person
Never sign a lease without seeing the place. When you visit, check:
- Overall condition and cleanliness
- Appliances work (stove, fridge, dishwasher if included)
- Water pressure and hot water
- Heat and AC work
- Windows and doors (locks work, screens are good)
- Signs of bugs or water damage
- Storage space
- Parking (if you need it)
- Laundry
- Cell phone reception
Take Pictures of Everything
Before you move in, take photos or videos of the whole place. Document any damage, wear, or problems. This protects you when you move out and helps you get your deposit back. Send copies to your landlord and keep your own copies.
Read the Whole Lease
Read every word. Don't rush. Ask questions if you don't understand something. Make sure you know:
- How much rent and when it's due
- What's included (utilities, parking, storage)
- Who's responsible for maintenance
- Pet rules (if you have pets)
- Rules about subletting or getting roommates
- How to end the lease
Get Everything in Writing
If your landlord promises something, get it in writing. Verbal agreements are hard to prove. If they promise repairs, include certain things, or agree to special terms, make sure it's in the lease or a separate written agreement.
Make Sure They're Real
Confirm you're dealing with the actual owner or authorized property manager. Get their contact info and make sure you can reach them when you need to.
Moving Day
Before You Move
- Set up utilities (give them at least 2 weeks notice)
- Get tenant insurance (most landlords require this)
- Book a moving truck or movers
- Pack and label boxes by room
- Tell everyone your new address (bank, work, government)
- Set up mail forwarding with Canada Post
- Plan your route and parking for moving day
Pack a First Night Box
You'll be tired after moving. Pack a box with:
- Toiletries and personal stuff
- Change of clothes
- Phone charger
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
- Light bulbs
- Trash bags
- Paper towels and toilet paper
- Snacks and water
On Moving Day
- Do a final walkthrough with your landlord if possible
- Test all appliances
- Make sure all keys work
- Note the condition of everything
- Take meter readings if utilities are in your name
- Change locks if your lease allows it
After You Move In
First Week
- Unpack essentials and get organized
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Find fire exits and emergency procedures
- Meet your neighbors if you want
- Find grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essentials
- Set up internet and cable if you want
- Register for garbage pickup if needed
First Month
- Set up a system for paying rent (set reminders)
- Keep track of any problems (write them down)
- Learn your building's rules
- Figure out how to request maintenance
- Keep all your lease documents and receipts organized
- Start building an emergency fund
Maintenance and Repairs
In Ontario, landlords have to keep the place in good shape. They're responsible for:
- Structural repairs
- Plumbing and electrical
- Heating and cooling
- Appliances they provide
- Common areas
You're responsible for:
- Regular cleaning
- Small stuff (changing light bulbs, batteries)
- Damage you or your guests cause
- Pest control if you caused the problem
Always report problems in writing and keep records. If your landlord won't fix urgent stuff like no heat or water, you might have rights to withhold rent or file with the Landlord and Tenant Board. Check the Residential Tenancies Act for the process.
Be a Good Tenant
Having a good relationship with your landlord makes everything easier:
- Pay rent on time, every time
- Be clear and respectful when you communicate
- Report problems right away
- Take care of the place and respect your neighbors
- Follow the lease and building rules
- Give proper notice for changes or requests
Helpful Resources
- Ontario Government: Renting in Ontario - Your rights as a tenant
- Landlord and Tenant Board - Rules under the Residential Tenancies Act
- Standard Lease Form - Download the official lease guide
- Solve a disagreement with your landlord or tenant - File complaints or get help resolving disputes
- Find a lawyer or paralegal - Get legal advice
How Closr Makes This Easier
We're building Closr to make first-time renting less stressful. When we launch Fall 2026, you'll get:
- Verified Listings: Every place is checked before it goes up, so you know it's real
- Clear Pricing: You see exactly what everything costs upfront, no surprises
- Standard Process: We use Ontario's standard lease and walk you through each step
- Verified Landlords: All landlords are checked, so you can trust them
- Everything Documented: All conversations are recorded, protecting you and your landlord
- Help When You Need It: Guides, checklists, and support throughout
Bottom line: Renting your first place is a learning experience. Take your time, ask questions, read everything, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Knowing your rights and responsibilities from the start sets you up for success. When in doubt, check the Residential Tenancies Act or talk to a lawyer or paralegal. They're there to help.