Ontario Landlord Red Flags (From Tenants Who Learned the Hard Way)

Renting in Ontario can feel like a full-time job, and sometimes, the scariest part isn’t the rent, it’s the landlord.
Whether you’re moving out for the first time or just tired of sketchy listings, these are real red flags Ontario tenants have learned to spot the hard way.

Save this one, it could save you thousands.

1. “Wants cash only.”

🚩 If a landlord asks for cash payments and nothing else, that’s a huge warning sign.
Why? Cash means no paper trail, which makes it harder to prove you’ve paid rent if something goes wrong.
You’re entitled to receipts in Ontario, if they refuse to provide one, walk away.

2. “Won’t put your name on the lease.”

No lease = no protection.
Even if you’re renting a room or basement suite, your name should be on a written rental agreement.
Without one, you can be kicked out without notice, rent can suddenly “go up,” or rules can change mid-way.
A legitimate landlord won’t hesitate to make it official.

3. “Says ‘I prefer mature professionals.’”

This one sounds innocent, but it often means they want quiet tenants who won’t complain.
It’s code for: “I’ll choose tenants who won’t question the conditions.”
Age isn’t what matters. Respect, communication, and boundaries do.
If that phrase pops up in the ad, take note of the tone and ask direct questions before signing.

4. “Says ‘I’ll fix that after you move in.’”

They won’t.
If something needs repair, leaky sink, broken door, missing smoke detector, get it handled before you hand over money.
Take photos, get written confirmation, and don’t assume it’ll magically happen later.
Once you’ve moved in, you lose most leverage.

5. “Won’t show you utility bills.”

If rent doesn’t include utilities, you have the right to ask what they usually cost.
A good landlord will show you a recent bill or give an estimate.
A shady one will dodge the question or say, “it’s not that bad.”
Translation: it’s probably worse than you think.

6. “Won’t let you take photos or videos during the walkthrough.”

Another big no.
If you can’t document the condition of the unit before moving in, it’s easier for them to claim you caused damage later.
Always take clear photos and videos, walls, appliances, windows, even corners.
A transparent landlord won’t care.

The bottom line

Ontario’s rental market is tough, and sometimes desperation makes people ignore warning signs.
But good landlords exist, and they’ll respect your right to clear terms, receipts, communication, and documentation.

The red flags above don’t mean “never rent again.” They mean: don’t settle for sketchy.

If you’ve experienced any of these, share your story, it helps someone else avoid the same mistake.

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