Everything You need to know Before you rent
This guide offers practical advice to help you find a safe, affordable, and comfortable place to live while balancing the realities of student life.
Getting Started
- Start your housing search early to avoid limited options
- Understand upfront costs: first/last month’s rent, security deposit, application fees, and potential parking charges
- Research average rental rates in the area to avoid being overcharged
- Be cautious of listings that appear too good to be true
- Always view a unit in person before committing
Living with Roommates
- Relationship: Decide what you want in a roommate—friendship, shared responsibilities, or simply splitting costs
- Lifestyle: Consider sleep schedules, cleanliness habits, dietary needs, pets, smoking, and noise tolerance
- Cleanliness: Define what “clean” means to you and share expectations early on
- Responsibility: Ensure all roommates are financially stable and comfortable discussing shared costs
- Guests: Align on expectations for hosting friends or significant others
- Conflict Resolution: Discuss how each of you handles disagreements and challenges. Open communication goes a long way
Transportation & Location
- How close is the rental to campus?
- Do you need a parking pass or transit plan?
- Know your route: by bus, car, bicycle, or walking
- Consider:
- Number of transfers on public transit
- Bike or walking paths
- Local services: groceries, laundromats, gyms, entertainment
Health, Safety & Security
- Inspect the Unit: Are doors and windows lockable? Are smoke detectors and alarms functional?
- Lighting: Check entryway, hallway, parking, and stairwell lighting inside and outside
- Access & Guests: How many people have keys? Can you lock your room?
- Neighbourhood Check: Visit the area during the day and night for vibe, safety, and walkability
- Building Maintenance: Is the property clean and well-kept? Is the landlord responsive to repairs?
Bed Bug Awareness
- Ask landlords if the unit or building has had bed bugs in the past
- Check the Bed Bug Registry
- Bed bugs can exist in clean spaces—inspect thoroughly
- Landlords are responsible for treatment if infestation occurs
- Contact public health or legal services if the landlord fails to act
Rental Scams
Red Flags:
- The landlord won’t show the unit in person
- Payment is required before viewing
- Requests to wire money overseas
- Listings with vague or inconsistent information
What to Do:
- Never send money before signing a verified lease
- Speak directly with landlords and tenants
- Report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or call 1-888-495-8501 or the local police
Know Your Rights
- Understand your rights under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act
- Learn which deposits are legal (first/last month’s rent only)
- Know eviction rules and lease responsibilities
Resources:
Budgeting for Off-Campus Life
- Rent – a 12-month lease is typical, be prepared for first and last month’s rent
- Internet & Utilities – hydro, heat, water
- Transportation
- Meals/Groceries
- Laundry access
- Entertainment
- Shared expenses with roommates