Frequently Asked Questions

Nothing. Our service is free for tenants. We're compensated by the listing brokerage when you sign a lease — standard practice in Ontario.

We match you to MLS® System listings, book showings, prepare your full application package, advise on offer strategy, and handle paperwork through signing. We represent you — not the landlord.

We review applications within 24 hours and typically book showings within 48 hours. The sooner you submit a complete application, the faster we move.

You'll need photo ID, a credit report, employment letter, recent pay stubs, last year's T4 or Notice of Assessment, and a landlord reference. Self-employed or new to Canada? We help you build a competitive application without the traditional document set.

Most landlords want 650+, with 700+ being competitive. That said, income and employment stability often matter more than the number itself. We advise you on what will and won't work for specific listings.

Yes. We work with new arrivals regularly using co-signers, prepaid rent arrangements, or landlords who understand international credit. We know which approaches work for non-traditional applications.

No. Rent-controlled units (first occupied before Nov 15, 2018) can only increase once per year by the provincial guideline — 2.1% in 2026. Units first occupied after that date are exempt and can increase by any amount with proper notice. Read our full Rent Control Guide →

Ontario landlords can only legally collect first and last month's rent — a "damage deposit" or "security deposit" is illegal. If a landlord asks for more than first + last, that's a red flag and a violation of the Residential Tenancies Act.

Standard is 12 months, though shorter terms are sometimes negotiable in tenant-favourable markets. After any fixed term, your lease automatically converts to month-to-month under Ontario law.

Yes — Ontario law does not allow landlords to enforce "no pet" clauses in most cases. While a landlord can ask, clauses prohibiting pets are generally void under the Residential Tenancies Act. That said, condos may have building-level restrictions. We help match you with pet-friendly listings and can advise on your specific situation.

If you're the sole tenant on the lease, you typically need your landlord's consent to add a roommate. However, a landlord cannot unreasonably withhold permission. If you're looking to share a rental from the start, we can help you find units suited for shared living.

The province does not impose breed-specific rental restrictions, but individual condo corporations may have rules about pet size or type. We always confirm pet policies with the building or landlord before booking showings.

Once your lease is signed, your agent will walk you through move-in logistics — key pickup, utility transfers, insurance setup, and anything else you need. We're available for questions even after you've moved in.

Your landlord is responsible for maintaining the unit in a good state of repair under the Residential Tenancies Act. If something breaks, contact your landlord or property manager directly. If they don't respond, you have the right to file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering your unit, and can only enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The only exceptions are emergencies or if you've given explicit consent. They cannot enter whenever they want.

During a fixed-term lease, your rent cannot increase. After the lease converts to month-to-month, your landlord can increase rent once every 12 months with at least 90 days written notice. Units occupied before November 15, 2018 are subject to Ontario's annual rent increase guideline. Newer units are exempt from the guideline cap.

Typically you'll need government-issued photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or an employment letter), and optionally a credit report. Our application form walks you through everything step by step — you don't need to have it all ready upfront.

Most applications are reviewed within 24–48 hours. Once approved, lease signing and move-in logistics are typically handled within a few days. The faster you submit your documents, the faster we can move.

Rejections happen for various reasons — income requirements, credit history, or competing applications. If your application isn't accepted, we'll continue searching and submitting on your behalf until we find the right fit. There's no limit to how many listings we can apply to for you.

Not always. A guarantor is typically needed if your income doesn't meet the landlord's threshold (usually 2.5–3x the monthly rent) or if you have limited credit history. Students, newcomers, and self-employed applicants are most commonly asked for a guarantor. See our Guarantor Guide for more details.

Yes, 100%. Our service is completely free for renters. The landlord or listing brokerage pays the commission — you pay nothing for our help finding, touring, and securing your rental.

In Ontario, landlords can only collect first and last month's rent as a deposit. They cannot charge security deposits, key deposits beyond the actual cost of replacement, or application fees. Be cautious of anyone asking for more.

Most landlords require tenant insurance as a condition of the lease, and we strongly recommend it regardless. It covers your personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses if something goes wrong. Policies typically start around $20–30/month. See our Renter's Insurance Guide for more.