05/08/2025
Imagine paying a deposit for a rental, only to show up and find there’s no apartment at all! 😱 That’s exactly what happened to 21 renters in a Kitchener scam, totaling over $63,000 in losses.
While social media is a great place to find deals, it’s also a breeding ground for scams. Not knowing the ins and outs of Ontario leases could make you an easy target.
Here are some red flags to watch for:
🚩 No Standard Lease Form: In Ontario, landlords must use the Ontario Standard Lease. If the lease looks generic or outdated, it could be fake.
🚩 Vague or Missing Details: A legit lease will clearly outline the property address, tenant/landlord names, rent amount, due dates, and lease terms. If anything’s missing, it’s a red flag.
🚩 Upfront Payments Beyond First & Last: Ontario law allows only first and last month’s rent as a deposit. Any extra charges are illegal.
Stay informed and protect yourself from rental scams!