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4. > Moving Out on Your Own
5. > Rental Agreements

Rental agreements

What is a rental agreement?

A rental agreement (sometimes called a lease or a tenancy agreement) is a contract between a landlord and a tenant. The landlord grants the right to occupy a rental unit, and in return the tenant commits to pay rent. The contract may also include details of negotiated terms or rules agreed by the parties.

Why do you need a written agreement?

Make sure you get your rental agreement in writing. It’s possible to have an oral agreement but a written agreement is much better because it officially records what you and the landlord have agreed to. If there is a dispute later, the written record may help to settle it.

What’s included in a rental agreement?

Your written rental agreement should include the legal name and address of the landlord. This is important so that you know where to send any notices or documents that may be required–for example, a notice that you plan to end your lease.

A rental agreement should also contain information about:

• the date the tenant can move into the rental unit
• the monthly rent amount
• the date the rent is to be paid
• the services that are included in the rent (such as electricity or parking) and any separate charges
• the conditions under which the rental agreement can be terminated, and the length and type of notice required
• the allowed frequency and amount by which the landlord can increase the rent
• any deposits required, whether they earn interest and how they are to be repaid
• the rules that the landlord requires all tenants to follow.

Your rights and responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords have rights and responsibilities. These can vary depending on the province or territory. For more information, please contact the body that oversees housing where you live:

• British Columbia – Residential Tenancy Branch, Ministry of Social Development
• Alberta – Service Alberta, Landlords/Tenants
• Saskatchewan – Office of Residential Tenancies
• Manitoba – Residential Tenancies Branch, Family Services and Consumer Affairs
• Ontario – Landlord and Tenant Board
• Quebec – Régie du logement
• New Brunswick – Office of the Rentalsman
• Nova Scotia – Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations
• Prince Edward Island – Office of the Director of Residential Rental Property
• Newfoundland and Labrador – Residential Tenancies Section, Consumer Affairs Division
• Yukon – Consumer Services, Department of Consumer Services
• Nunavut – Department of Justice, Residential Tenancies Act
• Northwest Territories – Department of Justice, Residential Tenancies Act, and Northwest Territories Rental Office

Related Resources

Date Modified:

2011-11-21