Understanding Renters' Rights in Ontario, here’re some FAQs:
1) Eviction Notices:
Eviction cannot be done via text; formal procedures must be followed.
The Residential Tenancies Act specifies approved methods for serving eviction notices.
2) Lease Renewal:
Tenants automatically transition to month-to-month tenancies after the lease ends.
Signing a new lease can lead to rent increases beyond legal limits.
Renewing a lease can prevent certain types of evictions but may not always be in the tenant's best interest.
3) Tenant's Liability for Landlord's Taxes:
Tenants could technically be liable for a landlord's unpaid taxes, though this is rare.
The CRA has decided not to pursue similar cases in the future, but the law remains unchanged.
4) Living with Landlord:
Tenants sharing a kitchen or bathroom with their landlord are not protected under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Exceptions exist if the landlord moves in after the tenant.
5) Houseguests and Visitors:
Tenants generally have the right to host guests.
Landlords can intervene if guests cause damage or engage in illegal activities