What is a tenancy agreement?

A tenancy agreement, also known as a lease or rental agreement, is a legal contract between a tenant and a landlord. This can be in writing or a verbal agreement. Clients entering into a tenancy agreement should be sure to read through the agreement carefully so that they understand what they are signing. 

The agreement should detail:

• How much the rent will be
• What is included in the rent payment (e.g., water, heat, hydro, etc.)
• The length of the lease
• Any “additional terms” that the landlord or tenant might have – make sure your client reads this part carefully.

How You Can Help:

• Step 1: If your client is thinking about renting a new unit, let them know that they have the right to a tenancy agreement on Ontario’s Standard Lease Form.
  • If your client is planning on entering into a tenancy agreement and is concerned about any of the terms in it, make sure they review it with a legal professional before signing anything.
• Step 2: Help your client read through any tenancy agreement and make sure they make note of any “additional terms” that the landlord might have included.