Not to mention that, as a tenant, you have certain responsibilities when moving out of a rental unit. Failing to perform your required duties as a tenant can not only make your transition more difficult — but could even result in additional expenses. 

We know that it can be challenging to stay on top of everything that you have to do. But, we’ve got you covered — here are some tips from our property management team to make sure you have a successful move and fulfill your tenant obligations. 

Provide 60 Days’ Notice 

Whether you are on a fixed term or month-to-month lease, all tenants are required to provide 60 days’ notice to their landlord in order to vacate the property. In Ontario, you must use the Tenant’s Notice to Terminate the Tenancy (Form N9) to give notice. This form is available in the Forms section at tribunalsontario.ca/ltb or from any Landlord and Tenant Board office. After you’ve given your 60 days’ notice, you will only need to pay your second-to-last month’s rent as your last month’s rent deposit will cover your final month’s rent payment.

You will be required to include the date you are writing the notice, the full address of the rental property that you are leaving, the date the tenancy will be terminated, and your signature. If you don’t provide your landlord with the required information, it will be considered improper notice. 

Failure to provide your landlord with proper notice means that your tenancy will actually continue after you plan to depart. As a tenant, you will run the risk of paying rent for two residencies. That’s why notices to vacate are important!

Repair Any Damages

Tenants are required to leave the rental property in the same condition as when they moved in. While normal wear and tear are considered reasonable, tenants are expected to repair any damages that fall outside of this category. 

This includes:

• Repainting the walls to the colour it was when you moved in
• Replacing broken windows 
• Making sure that the electrical and plumbing systems are still in good condition
• Making sure that appliances and light fixtures are working properly, including changing light bulbs

If your landlord claims that you have damaged the rental property, you will be liable to pay for the fixing costs. That’s why it’s always best to take good care of the property and repair damages before you leave.

Clean Your Unit

After you have moved everything out of your unit, it’s key that you thoroughly clean the property. 

This includes:

• Emptying all cupboards and drawers
• Wiping down all surfaces including doors and floors
• Emptying the refrigerator and freezer and leaving them plugged in
• Cleaning all appliances inside and out
• Disconnecting and/or transferring utilities, if required
• Leaving bedroom door keys in doors, if applicable

It’s also important to note that any items left inside of your unit or any appliances will be disposed of and may even result in additional costs for you. If your landlord alleges that you did not clean the rental property properly, they must file an application against you to collect payment for cleaning. So, be sure to double-check everything!

Update Your Tenant Insurance

Many landlords in Ontario require that you obtain tenant insurance (Required by SPM). Naturally, this means that you are obligated to inform your insurance provider that you are moving to a new location so your information is updated. 

Please note: if you are a student planning to go onto your parent(s) insurance, the coverages are not the same. Always ensure that you read the full terms of the tenant insurance policy. If you have any questions about obtaining tenant insurance, please contact our office.

Maintain the Exterior of the Property

Tenants are still required to maintain the cleanliness of the exterior rental property up until their last day of residency. Failure to properly care for the property may result in fees or further action from your landlord. This also includes taking out the garbage on the proper collection date and removing any garbage that may be on the exterior property. 

You should also check your lease to see whether or not you or your landlord is responsible for lawn & snow care. If it is your responsibility, you will have to make sure that you maintain the exterior of the rental property up until the end of your residency. This means you will still be responsible for cutting grass, shovelling and salting the necessary areas to prevent possible accidents.

Finally, Attend Your Final Inspection with Your Landlord

As a tenant, you will be required to attend a final inspection of the rental property with your landlord. During this inspection, your rental unit will be checked for any damage that does not fall under normal wear and tear. 

This final inspection is normally completed after you have moved all of your furniture and belongings out of the rental property. After the inspection, you and your landlord will sign a checklist as you inspect each room. Don’t forget to retain a copy of the checklist for your records.

Find Your Next Place to Call Home with SPM

Moving out can be exhausting, but it’s critical not to forget your responsibilities as a tenant to avoid paying extra fees and facing legal action from your landlord. 

Always remember that as a tenant, you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity by your property management agency. 

At SPM, we believe that you are entitled to the same level of comfort, safety, and support as a homeowner. Let us help you find a property that suits your needs. 

Talk to a specialist today to get started.