Newcomer Guide: Renting in Canada

Whether you’re settling into a bustling city or a cozy community, Canada’s rental market is designed to be accessible and welcoming for newcomers. Finding your ideal rental involves key steps, from setting a budget and searching for listings to understanding lease agreements and preparing necessary documents. Having the correct information and resources at your fingertips makes navigating this process much more manageable. With some preparation, you’ll soon feel confident about securing a place to call home. 

Ready to start your journey to find the perfect rental? Let’s explore the ins and outs of renting in Canada and what you need to know as a newcomer.

Understanding Canadian Rental Options

Nearly every country has a way of referring to various rentals, such as a flat, a villa, or a unit. In Canada, you’ll generally find rentals referred to by the amount of bedrooms it has, such as a one-bedroom or two-bedroom. Rentals are further categorized into the type of building they are located in, such as:

• Apartments
• Townhomes
• Basement suites
• Condos

Finally, these can again be further divided into short- and long-term rentals, which refer to the duration of time someone would be staying in that space.

Short-Term Rentals

At Accora Village, we offer various short-term rental options for weeks or months at a time at select locations within the community. Each unit is fully renovated, includes modern appliances, and is fully furnished, meaning it has all the furniture you need and can move right in with your personal belongings. 

This is an excellent option for those who require temporary housing or are waiting for long-term availability. 

Long-Term Rentals

Long-term rentals typically last a year or more. They can include all the same features as short-term rentals but are generally not furnished other than having basic appliances. Accora Village has various long-term apartment and townhome rental options, where residents also have access to the Accora Recreation Centre which includes an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, full-sized gym, weight and cardio rooms, recreational programming and more.  

Rental Resources and Newcomer Settlement Organizations

The Government of Canada provides several online resources that are accessible to new Canadians. These include:

• The newcomer’s rental guide: A Canadian Government guide to renting in Canada includes but is not limited to landlord obligation, visiting rental units, and rent increases.
• Newcomer resources: A free online service provides access to many required services, including but not limited to housing, education, and mental health support.
• Newcomer services: A resource of several government service centers to help new Canadians with various services, including but not limited to language training, settlement plans or help finding a job.

Creating a Budget: Estimating Your Monthly Costs

Once you understand your rental options and what suits your lifestyle best, the next step is to create a budget for monthly costs. Keep in mind that rental prices vary across major cities, with Ottawa offering a range of options to suit different budgets, typically between $1,600 and 2,100 for a one-bedroom. 

Other cities, like Toronto, average $2,500 per month, while Vancouver, on the low end, can be $2,650, and Calgary is generally $1.850 for a one-bedroom. 

Here’s a more thorough breakdown of rental costs to expect when renting in Ottawa:

• Studio: $1,375-$2,000
• 1 Bedroom: $1,600-$2,100
• 2 Bedrooms: $2,000-$2,700
• 3 Bedrooms: $2,600-$3,000
• 4 Bedrooms: $2,800-$3,800

Prices vary depending on location and amenities. However, rent is just one part of your monthly expenses. Be sure to factor in additional costs like utilities (heat, water, electricity), internet, tenant insurance, and transportation (including parking if needed). Here’s a rough estimate of how much each factor could cost in Ottawa:

• Utilities: $200-$350/month
• Parking: $80-$250/month
• Internet: $45-$85
• Transportation: $50-$150

Tenant Insurance varies from $15-$40/month. However, depending on the provider, tenant insurance can be bundled with car insurance, offering alternative prices. 

Ideally, rent should cost no more than 30-35% of your gross income. To save on costs, consider shared accommodations or look for rentals with utilities included. Online cost-of-living calculators can help you estimate expenses and plan your budget effectively. 

For a stress-free approach, explore Accora Village’s all-inclusive rental options in buildings like Deschenes Court, including:

• Moodie
• Haydon
• Franklin

These apartments include utilities, making budgeting more straightforward and predictable.

Where to Look for Rental Listings

Finding the perfect rental starts with knowing where to look. Online platforms like Rentals.ca are popular for browsing listings, and the government offers subsidized housing for qualifying candidates. However, as a newcomer to Canada, it’s best to find a rental agency or property management company to help secure your first rental and walk you through the requirements. 

An alternative source to find residences include:

• Community bulletin boards like the one for Eastern Ontario
• Newcomer support groups
• Immigrant settlement services in Ottawa,

Recommendations from friends and family can also point you toward trusted landlords or hidden gems. 

However, as you search, look for red flags in rental ads, such as requests for upfront payments without a lease or listings that seem too good to be true. These could be signs of scams. By exploring a combination of online tools, local networks, and professional services, you’ll be well-equipped to find a rental that feels like home.

Understanding the Rental Application Process

Once you have found a place that suits your needs, budget, and feels comfortable to you, you’ll be required to fill out a rental application. Before doing so, ensure you know your rights. 

Most landlords will require key documents to verify your reliability as a tenant, including:

• Identification 
• Proof of employment/Income
• References
• Security background checks

Select landlords accept alternative options for newcomers without a Canadian credit history, such as providing proof of consistent income or credit checks. 

While some rentals may ask for a guarantor or co-signer who will pay your rent or cover your costs in the event you can’t, this isn’t always necessary. (Accora Village does not accept guarantors or co-signers)

In Ontario, security deposits are not provincially legal, but landlords may request a deposit equal to one month’s rent. This is often called “first and last,” which is the rent for your first month living in the space and the last month before you move out of it. 

What to Know About Signing a Lease

Signing a lease is a significant step in your rental journey, and understanding its terms is essential for a smooth experience. Key details to pay attention to include:

• Rent payment schedules (when your rent is due every month)
• Lease duration (how long you will live in the rental unit)
• Renewal policies (what steps to take if you would like to continue living in the rental unit after the lease duration expires)

Tenants in Canada have specific rights and responsibilities, such as maintaining the property and paying rent on time, while landlords are required to provide a safe and habitable living space. 

Before signing, carefully review standard lease clauses in the tenant and landlord contract. These could include maintenance responsibilities or penalties for breaking the lease early.

Leases typically come in two forms: fixed-term and month-to-month agreements. Note that both require a 60-day notice to terminate the lease.

Fixed-Term Lease

A fixed-term lease is when the tenant and landlord agree that the tenancy will last for a set time, often one year. This option is ideal for renters who want to live somewhere long-term and have found housing in a desirable neighbourhood that suits all their needs. 

Following a fixed-term, they can often automatically transition into month-to-month leases in certain provinces like Ontario after the initial period. If a tenant prefers to move out after the original fixed-lease term, they must submit an N9 notice of termination to the landlord.

Month-to-Month Agreements

A month-to-month rental agreement is a more flexible option, which renews at the end of each month. This option is excellent for those looking for a short-term rental if they’re in one of the following positions:

• Looking for another option for a fixed-term rental
• Want to live in a different neighbourhood or city
• Waiting for family to arrive in the country

If you’re unsure about lease terms, consult Ontario’s guide to standard leases for clarity. Understanding your lease ensures you’re well-prepared and confident in your rental commitment. 

Ready to find your perfect home? Explore Accora Village’s transparent leasing process and discover a community that prioritizes your comfort and peace of mind.

Moving In: Setting Up and Settling Into Your New Home

Once your lease is signed, a few essential steps remain to ensure a smooth transition. These include:

• Set up utility accounts, like electricity and water, in your name.
• Check with your landlord about available internet service providers in your building.
• Arrange renter’s insurance through a qualified insurance agent to protect your belongings.

On move-in day, thoroughly inspect the property and document any existing damage. This is important should anything happen during your lease to change the state of the space.

Your Canadian Rental Journey Starts Here

Your Canadian rental journey is an exciting step toward building a new life, and with the proper knowledge, it’s entirely manageable. Take the time to research, ask questions, and explore your options to find a home that suits your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant community or a quiet retreat, there’s a perfect place waiting for you. 

Ready to start your search? Explore Accora Village’s rental options in Ottawa, where you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment designed to make your transition as smooth as possible. Your new home is just around the corner; let’s make it happen!

Frequently Asked Questions for Newcomers Renting in Canada

How does tenant insurance work, and is it required?

Tenant insurance protects your belongings in case of fire, theft, or other unforeseen circumstances. The requirement for tenant insurance depends on your landlord. For example, all of our tenants at Accora Village are required to have tenant insurance of their own.

What happens if I want to break my lease early?

We do not advise attempting to break your lease early. You will have to receive written consent from your landlord to break the lease or agree to assign another tenant, which is when you find someone to take over the lease for the remainder of the term. 

In extreme cases, the Landlord and Tenant Board can end the lease early if there is evidence of abuse or other valid reasons.

How do I report maintenance issues to my landlord?

You can contact your landlord directly. However, at Accora Village, we streamline this process by allowing tenants to note maintenance concerns through our maintenance service request page. 

Can my landlord increase my rent, and by how much?

Every 12 months, rent-controlled properties can increase the rent by the yearly approved rate. However, for buildings built in Ontario after November 15, 2018, landlords can increase rent every 12 months at a percentage they choose.

Landlords can also apply for an increase in rent from the landlord and tenant board. The tenant’s rent increase notice is sent 3 months before it takes effect, outlining the reasons for the rise.

What are my rights if I face discrimination while renting?

If you are discriminated against while renting, the Ontario Human Rights Commission offers protection and support for issues that go against the Ontario Human Rights Code.