58 Questions Tenants should ask Landlords before Renting in Canada in 2024

From screening properties to signing the lease, arm yourself with the right questions for a seamless and informed renting experience.

Even Einstein asked questions, goes an old chestnut. And it is all the more important to do so if you find yourself in a new land and experience a new culture. 

What are some of the questions that you need to ask before you settle into your new home? One way to approach this task is to sit with a pen and paper, an app or a computer and write down what questions you would like to ask yourself.

This guide will help you with some of these questions:

6 Questions to ask yourself before you start looking

1. What is your budget? Determine how much you can comfortably afford to spend on rent each month. This will help you avoid wasting time on listings that are out of your price range.
2. What location would you like to consider? Ask yourself what amenities and services are important to you. Do you need to be close to public transportation? Are you looking for a neighborhood with plenty of shops and restaurants? Think about what you value in a location and use that as a guide when browsing listings.
3. Size: What size of rental property do you need? Are you looking for a studio apartment, a one-bedroom, or something larger? Consider your living situation and what will be most comfortable for you.
4. What are your deal breakers? Are there any specific requirements or restrictions that you have? For example, do you have pets and need a pet-friendly rental? Or perhaps you require a parking space. Do you have a senior citizen moving in with you and if you’d have any special considerations? Consider these deal breakers and use them as filters when browsing listings.
5. Duration of stay: How long do you plan on staying at this rental property? If you’re only looking for a short-term lease, make sure to filter your search accordingly. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a long-term rental, consider factors such as lease renewals and the potential for rent increases.
6. Listing: Where did you first read about the listing? Did you ensure that it’s from an authentic source? Did you verify the photos or read online reviews?

The idea is to narrow down the options by seeking responses to some of these screener questions.

19 Questions to ask the landlord after applying

When you find a rental property that meets your criteria and you’ve decided to apply, it’s important to gather as much information as possible before signing the lease. Here are some essential questions to ask the landlord after applying:

1. Application process: How long does the application process typically take? Knowing the timeline can help you plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary stress.
2. Fee: What is the application fee? Some landlords charge a fee for processing rental applications. Make sure you understand the cost involved before proceeding.
3. Credit check: Do you require a credit check? Many landlords in Canada conduct credit checks to assess an applicant’s financial history. Understanding this requirement will help you prepare the necessary documents. However, you can also rent an apartment without any credit history.
4. Income: Are there any income requirements? Landlords may have specific income thresholds that tenants must meet. Ask about these requirements to ensure you qualify.
5. Renter’s insurance: Is renter’s insurance mandatory? Some landlords require tenants to have renter’s insurance to protect their personal belongings. Find out if it’s necessary and what the coverage should include.
6. Lease terms: What are the lease terms? Ask about the length of the lease and any specific conditions, such as quiet hours or restrictions on pets or guests.
7. Pet policy: What is the landlord’s pet policy? Ask about any pet deposits, pet rent, or breed restrictions.
8. Conditions: Are there any additional costs? Inquire about utility bills, parking fees, or other extra expenses beyond the monthly rent. This will help you budget accordingly.
9. Repairs and maintenance: What repairs or maintenance are the landlord’s responsibility? It’s important to clarify the landlord’s responsibilities for repairs and maintenance in the rental unit.
10. Tenant references: Can the landlord offer you references from previous tenants? Speaking with former tenants can give you valuable insights into the landlord’s responsiveness and the overall living experience in the rental property.
11. Lease renewal option: Is there an option to renew the lease? If you’re considering a long-term stay, find out if the landlord offers lease renewal options and if the terms might change.
12. Break a lease: What happens when you break a lease? What are some of the consequences? 
13. Rent increase cycle: Have there been any recent rent increases? Understanding the rental history and any recent rent increases can help you plan your budget effectively.
14. Payments: How are rent payments made? Inquire about the preferred method of rent payment and whether it can be done electronically.
15. Rent due: Often it is assumed that the rent is due at the start of the month. This may not always be the case. Ask about when it is due.
16. Delayed payments: What are the consequences for late rent payments? Understanding the consequences of paying rent late can help you avoid unnecessary fees or legal issues.
17. Previous tenants: Why did the previous tenants decide to leave? This may not be a frequently asked question but it doesn’t hurt to know. 
18. Decoration: Are there any restrictions on decorating your apartment? What are some of the boundaries? 
19. Inspections: How often are inspections made to ensure the upkeep of the property? It’s crucial to know the overall process. Do you get the inspections done on your own and have them reimbursed later or would the landlord chip in?

These are some of the frequently asked questions to help you steer clear of any needless hassles at a later date.

5 Questions to ask during/after a showing

Often first impressions of a new home stay with us whether we are looking for temporary or permanent accommodation in any country. It’s easy to be influenced by the realtor’s or the  broker’s pitch. But it’s important to ask the right questions during and after a showing. Here are important questions that you may want to ask:

1. Neighborhood: Can you provide more details about the neighborhood? Ask about nearby amenities such as grocery stores, schools, public transportation and recreational facilities. Understanding the neighborhood will give you a better idea of what your daily life will look like.
2. Application process: Can you provide more information about the application process? Ask about any specific documents or references that may be required. Knowing the application process in advance will help you come prepared and save time.
3. Furnished or not: Is the unit furnished or unfurnished? Clarify whether the rental property comes fully furnished or if you will need to provide your own furniture. This will help you plan your move accordingly.
4. Age: How old is the property? This will determine the overall quality of building materials and if any major redevelopment may be necessary in the near future. The last thing you want is to have damp walls during winter. 
5. Maintenance emergency: We have all had a broken faucet or a sudden leak in a pipe at least once in our living memory. And when that happens, it may wreak havoc. Whom should you contact and how soon will they arrive to fix the problem? Ideally, you should have a service that can swoop in at the slightest notice even at an odd hour.

Remember, asking these questions will not only provide you with important information but also demonstrate your interest and readiness to be a responsible tenant. Take your time during and after a showing to ask these questions and gather all the necessary details to make an informed decision.

11 Questions to ask before signing a lease

Signing a lease is a significant commitment, and it’s important to have all the necessary information before making a decision. Asking the following questions will help you fully understand the terms of your lease and ensure a smooth renting experience.

1. Terms and duration: What are the lease terms and rental duration? Understanding the length of your lease is crucial, as it will determine how long you are obligated to stay in the rental property. Additionally, ask if there are any penalties for early termination if your circumstances change unexpectedly.
2. Subletting policy: What is the policy on subletting or assigning the lease? If you foresee the need to sublet your rental unit or transfer the lease to someone else, it’s crucial to inquire about the landlord’s policies and any associated fees or requirements.
3. Renovation policy: Are there any restrictions on modifications or renovations? If you have plans to personalize your living space through modifications or renovations, get that out of the way first. 
4. Noise restrictions: Are there any quiet hours or noise restrictions? If you value peace and quiet, ask if there are any specific quiet hours or noise restrictions in place. This is especially important if you are living in a shared building or have sensitive neighbors.
5. Dispute resolution: What is the process for resolving disputes or disagreements? It’s important to know how disputes or disagreements between you and the landlord will be handled. Ask about the preferred method of communication and if there is a formal process for resolving conflicts.
6. Keys: How many set of keys are you allowed to make? Indeed the landlord will have a set but they cannot enter the rented apartment without your prior knowledge. During an emergency, you can always reach out to the landlord for a spare set of keys.
7. Laundry: Not all accommodation options have a dedicated laundry service. But if it is a shared laundry room, enquire about how much it will cost you and the timings are. 
8. Parking: Often people take parking for granted. Is it covered in your lease? Or would it be a pay-and-park arrangement?
9. Public transportation: How far away are you from the local bus stop or the railway station? How easy is it to commute in general in the area? 
10. Security: What are the security measures to keep the house safe from possible miscreants? In gated neighborhoods security guards may be stationed at key locations. However, that may not always be the case. 
11. Heads up: What is the notice period that a landlord should offer you before he visits your apartment? 

Remember, there’s no such thing as too many questions. A good landlord will appreciate your diligence and willingness to clarify any uncertainties.

8 Questions a landlord can ask you

When searching for an apartment to rent in Canada, it’s important to be prepared for the questions that a landlord may ask you during the application process. These questions typically aim to gather information about your financial stability, rental history, and suitability as a tenant. Here are some common questions that a landlord may ask you:

1. Income proof: Can you provide proof of income? Landlords often want to ensure that you have the financial means to afford the monthly rent. They may ask for pay stubs, employment letters, or bank statements to verify your income and determine if you meet their income requirements.
2. Employment status: What is your employment status and history? Landlords may ask about your current job, how long you’ve been employed there, and if it is a stable or temporary position. This information helps them assess your ability to pay rent consistently over the course of your lease.
3. Eviction: Have you ever been evicted? Landlords want to ensure that you have a good rental history and have not been evicted in the past. They may ask for references from previous landlords to verify your rental history.
4. Occupants: How many people will be living with you? Landlords may ask about the number of occupants to ensure that the unit is suitable for the desired number of tenants. This helps prevent overcrowding and potential damage to the property.
5. Smoking rules: Do you smoke? Some landlords have strict no-smoking policies, so they may ask if you are a smoker or if you have any intentions of smoking inside the rental unit.
6. References: Can you provide references? Landlords may ask for references from previous landlords or personal references to gain insight into your character and reliability as a tenant.
7. Commitment: Are you willing to sign a lease agreement? Landlords may inquire about your willingness to sign a lease agreement and commit to a specific lease term. Lease terms can vary, but a standard lease agreement is typically for one year.
8. Do you have any questions for me? A good landlord will often give you an opportunity to ask questions about the property, lease terms, or any other concerns you may have. It’s always a good idea to come prepared with your own questions to ensure that the rental is a good fit for you.

Remember, building a good rapport with your potential landlord is essential in creating a positive and successful rental experience. The idea is to be transparent while corralling as much information as you can from your prospective landlord.

Questions a landlord cannot ask you

When looking for a rental property in Canada, it’s important to know your rights as a tenant. Landlords have the responsibility to provide fair and equal treatment to all prospective tenants. There are certain questions that landlords are not allowed to ask you during the application process or while considering your tenancy. These questions are designed to protect tenants from discrimination and uphold their right to privacy.

1. Family status: Landlords cannot ask about your family status, including whether you have children or if you are planning to have children. Discrimination based on family status is prohibited by law.
2. Marital status: A landlord cannot inquire about your marital status or request information about your personal relationships. This includes questions about your spouse or partner.
3. Gender or sexual orientation: It is illegal for landlords to ask about your gender identity or sexual orientation. They cannot discriminate against potential tenants based on these factors.
4. Race, ethnicity, or nationality: Landlords cannot ask about your race, ethnicity, or nationality. Discrimination on these grounds is strictly prohibited.
5. Disability: It is unlawful for landlords to ask about your disability or request any information related to your health or medical conditions. This includes questions about physical or mental disabilities.
6. Religion: Landlords cannot ask about your religious beliefs or practices. Discrimination based on religion is prohibited by law.
7. Source of income: It is illegal for landlords to inquire about your source of income, including whether you receive government assistance or have a disability pension. They can only ask for proof of income to ensure that you can afford the rent.
8. Age: A landlord cannot ask about your age or request your date of birth. Discrimination based on age is prohibited, except in cases where age is a valid requirement for a specific housing program or community.

Immigration or citizenship status: Landlords cannot ask about your immigration or citizenship status. Discrimination based on immigration status or nationality is against the law.