Landlord & Tenant Questions

What is a security deposit?

An amount of money that is held in a trust either as an initial part-payment in

a purchasing process.

Must a landlord provide a receipt for a security deposit?

No

Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit?

Yes

How much can be charged for a security deposit?

Cant be more than half the months rent

How much time does a landlord have to return a security deposit after the tenant
moves out?

Within 15 days

What is a rental agreement?

A written or oral contract between a landlord and tenant that provides for a
tenancy for a short period of time, such as one month

What are the types of rental agreements?

Week to week
Month to month
Not less than 6 months and not more than 12 months

Must a landlord give a copy of a signed rental agreement to the tenant?

Yes

Must a landlord give a tenant a copy of the Residential Tenancies Act?

Yes

What is a rental premises condition report form?

Its completed, signed and dated by the tenant and landlord to show the
condition of the residential premises at the beginning and end of the rental
agreement.

Does the Residential Tenancies Act apply to a verbal rental agreement?

Yes

Can a landlord request post-dated cheques for rent payments?

Yes

Are there residential premises not covered by the Act?

Yes

Does the Act apply to business/commercial rental agreements?

No

Is a tenant responsible to have insurance on his/her personal belongings?

No

When a rented premise is sold to a new owner, does the rental agreement continue?

Yes

What happens to a security deposit when there is a change in ownership?

The new owner is responsible for the security deposit

Can a landlord charge a fee for late payment of rent?

Yes

Can a landlord charge a fee if a tenants rent cheque is returned because of nonsufficient funds in the tenants account?

Yes

Can a tenant withhold rent because a landlord is not maintaining the premises?

No, but the landlord may receive a notice

Can a landlord terminate a rental agreement when the tenant does not pay rent?

Yes

Can a landlord increase rent by giving a verbal notice to the tenant?

No, the landlord must give a written notice to the tenant

Can a landlord increase rent anytime?

No

Is a tenant responsible for damages to the residential premises?

Yes

What can a landlord do if a tenant has not repaired damages?

The landlord can request in writing a tenant to repair damages

Can a termination notice be verbal?

No

Where can I get a copy of the Residential Tenancies Act?

Official copies can be bought at their locations and at the government service
centres

If a landlord gives a tenant a Termination Notice in writing, is the tenant required to

give a written notice of his departure?

Yes