Key takeaways
- Landlords usually ask for credit, income and references. Offer alternatives for each
- Bank statements, a job offer, references and a guarantor all help
- Deposit rules depend on your province; know them before you pay
- Never pay before viewing the unit and verifying the landlord
- Each province has a tenancy board that protects renters
What landlords look for
Most landlords want to know you’ll pay the rent on time. They usually ask for a credit check, proof of income or employment, and references from previous landlords. As a newcomer you may have none of these in Canada yet, and that’s normal.
What you can offer instead
- Proof of funds: bank statements showing savings that cover several months of rent
- A job offer or employment letter, even if you haven’t started yet
- References: previous landlords at home, your employer, or a settlement worker
- A guarantor with Canadian credit who co-signs the lease
- A short cover note introducing yourself and explaining your situation
Where to look
Use established rental sites, property management companies and your settlement agency. Community groups and word of mouth can lead to good rooms, but take extra care with listings on social media, where most scams appear.
Deposit rules by province
- Ontario: a landlord can ask for a last month’s rent deposit and a refundable key deposit, but not a damage deposit. Most rentals use the Ontario standard lease.
- British Columbia: a security deposit of up to half a month’s rent, and a pet deposit if applicable.
- Quebec: deposits are generally not allowed.
Rules summarized as of September 2026. Check your provincial tenancy board for current rules and other provinces.
Red flags and scams
- You’re asked to pay before seeing the unit
- The rent is far below similar places nearby
- The “landlord” is abroad and will mail the keys
- You’re pressured to decide or pay immediately
- Payment by gift cards, crypto or wire transfer to a stranger
Tip: Search the address and the landlord’s name online, and ask to see ID or proof of ownership or management.
Your rights as a tenant
Every province has a body that handles landlord and tenant disputes, such as Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board, British Columbia’s Residential Tenancy Branch and Quebec’s Tribunal administratif du logement. Settlement agencies and legal clinics can help if something goes wrong.
General information, not legal advice. Tenancy law differs by province; check your provincial tenancy board.
