Breaking Down the Sections To The 2021 Ontario Standard Lease

Navigating the 2021 Ontario Standard Lease can be overwhelming. As a property management company, we’re here to break down Sections 1 to 15 to help both landlords and tenants understand the essential details.

Section 1: Parties to the Agreement

This section identifies the landlord(s) and tenant(s) involved in the lease, ensuring both parties are clearly defined with their names and contact information.

Section 2: Rental Unit

This clause describes the rental property, including the full address, type of unit (e.g., apartment, house), and any additional details such as parking spaces or storage units.

Section 3: Contact Information

Here, the landlord’s address for receiving formal notices is provided. Both parties can agree to use email as a method for communication, ensuring efficient and timely exchanges.

Section 4: Term of Tenancy Agreement

This specifies the start date of the tenancy and the type of tenancy (fixed-term or month-to-month). It clarifies that the tenant doesn’t have to move out at the end of the term unless the landlord or tenant gives notice to end the tenancy.

Section 5: Rent

Details the rent amount, payment due dates, and any additional charges for services like parking. It also mentions allowable rent increases under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Section 6: Services and Utilities

Lists the services and utilities included in the rent and those that are the tenant’s responsibility. This section ensures clarity on who pays for what, avoiding future disputes.

Section 7: Rent Discounts

Specifies any rent discounts agreed upon by the landlord and tenant. This might include early payment discounts or other incentives.

Section 8: Rent Deposit

Explains the rules regarding rent deposits, including how they are calculated, when they are due, and how they will be returned at the end of the tenancy.

Section 9: Key Deposit

Details any key deposit required and the conditions under which it will be returned. This is to ensure the tenant returns all keys provided at the end of the tenancy.

Section 10: Smoking

States the landlord’s rules about smoking in the rental unit and common areas. This helps maintain a clear understanding of smoking policies to avoid any misunderstandings.

Section 11: Tenant Insurance

Advises tenants to obtain insurance to cover personal property and liability. This protects tenants in case of unforeseen events such as theft, fire, or damage.

Section 12: Changes to the Rental Unit

Outlines the process for making changes or improvements to the rental unit, including obtaining the landlord’s consent. This ensures any modifications are agreed upon by both parties.

Section 13: Maintenance and Repairs

Specifies the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants for maintaining and repairing the rental unit. This section helps keep the property in good condition and clarifies who handles what.

Section 14: Assignment and Subletting

Explains the rules for assigning or subletting the rental unit, including obtaining the landlord’s consent. This is important for tenants who may need to transfer their lease to someone else.

Section 15: Additional Terms

Allows for any additional terms agreed upon by the landlord and tenant, such as rules about pets, smoking, or other specific agreements not covered in the standard lease terms.