Is this booklet for you?

Are you a senior who rents? Are you considering renting? Then this booklet is for you!

You will be able to find answers to common questions about renting and being a senior renter. You can find this booklet helpful whether you rent:

• an entire house,
• a room in a house,
• an apartment in a building with only a few suites or one with hundreds,
• a suite in a condominium, or
• a mobile home.

This booklet is divided into several sections. They explain many of your rights and responsibilities, as well as your landlord’s. They can help you know what to expect when you sign your tenancy agreement, when you move in, while living there, and when you move out. One section helps you think about your future living needs.

There is also a section on Safety and Security. It helps you as a tenant to deal with problems that sometimes crop up in the building. It also helps you know how to recognize abuse or harassment from people, and what to do if it happens.
 

At the end of this booklet you can test your knowledge, and find community resources to help you learn more. There is also a glossary that explains words commonly used when renting.

Note: If you are going to be a roommate with someone, your rights and responsibilities are different. Contact the Tenants’ Rights Action Coalition for their Fact Sheet on “Roommates” (1-800-665-1185).
If you are a member of co-op housing, you are not considered to be a “renter”. That means many of the legal rights identified in this booklet may not apply to you.
 

Each co-op has its own rules, and all co-ops must follow provincial and federal laws for co-op housing. If you own a mobile home and rent the pad, then some different residential tenancy laws apply to your situation.


Click here to go to Renters' Guide Table of Contents

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