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Ontario Rental Law Essential Guide to Enforceable Lease Clauses.
Lease Clauses That Don't Hold Up: What Ontario Agents Need to Know
We've all seen them: "No pets." "$1,000 pet deposit." "Mandatory professional cleaning."
They sound reasonable. But under Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, many of these clauses are completely unenforceable.
As agents, our job isn't just to lease a property quickly or for top dollar — it's to protect our clients. That means educating landlords before they list, and ensuring tenants know their rights.
Here's what actually works
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Use the Ontario Standard Lease
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Charge a reasonable key deposit (actual replacement cost only)
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Include lawful clauses: utilities, smoking restrictions, occupancy
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Review condo declarations (they may allow pet restrictions)
And what doesn't
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"No pets" clauses (generally void)
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Pet deposits (not legal in Ontario)
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Damage or security deposits
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Mandatory professional cleaning
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Post-dated cheques or PAD as a condition of tenancy
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Tenants covering repair deductibles or normal wear & tear
Remember: If a lease clause contradicts the Residential Tenancies Act, it doesn't matter what both parties agreed to — it won't stand.
Knowledge protects deals. Know the rules. Lease smarter.
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