A Landlord Guide to the Ontario Standard Lease

Since 2018, most residential landlords in Ontario are required to use the Ontario Standard Lease. If you are self-managing your property, understanding this document is essential.

Who must use the standard lease?¶

The standard lease is mandatory for most private residential tenancies in Ontario, including basement apartments, condos, houses, and apartments. Exemptions include some social housing, long-term care, and commercial tenancies.

Key sections you can customize¶

While the form itself is standardized, several sections allow customization. You can specify rent amount and payment details, parking and storage arrangements, smoking and pet policies within legal limits, and additional terms that do not conflict with the Residential Tenancies Act.

Common mistakes landlords make¶

Adding illegal clauses is the most frequent error. You cannot require post-dated cheques, charge damage deposits beyond the last month rent deposit, prohibit guests, or restrict reasonable enjoyment of the unit. These clauses are void even if the tenant signs them.

Always have your lease reviewed by someone familiar with Ontario tenancy law. At Horizon, we prepare all leases for our managed properties and ensure full compliance.