20 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
Asking the right questions before signing can save you from costly surprises. Here are 20 questions every renter should ask their landlord.
About the Unit
Before you fall in love with a unit, make sure you understand exactly what you're getting — and what might be lurking beneath the surface.
- 1
What's included in the rent? (Utilities, parking, storage, laundry, internet?)
- 2
Has the unit had any pest issues — cockroaches, bedbugs, or mice? When were they last treated?
- 3
When was the unit last renovated? Are there any known maintenance issues?
- 4
What's the heating and cooling system? Who pays for heat and electricity?
- 5
How is garbage and recycling handled? Is there in-suite laundry or shared laundry?
About the Lease Terms
Understanding the structure of your lease before you sign protects you from unexpected obligations.
- 6
Is the lease fixed-term or month-to-month? What are the exact start and end dates?
- 7
What are the notice periods? How much notice do I need to give to end the tenancy?
- 8
Can I sublet the unit if I need to leave temporarily? What is the process?
- 9
Are there any restrictions on guests or additional occupants?
- 10
What alterations, if any, am I allowed to make to the unit?
About the Landlord
Your landlord's responsiveness and track record matter as much as the unit itself.
- 11
How do you handle maintenance requests? Is there an online portal or phone number?
- 12
What is your typical response time for urgent repairs (e.g., no heat, water leaks)?
- 13
How many units do you manage? Is there an on-site superintendent?
- 14
Have there been any Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) orders against you or this property?
- 15
Who do I contact in an after-hours emergency?
About Rent and Fees
Get full clarity on every dollar you'll owe — before you commit.
- 16
What payment methods do you accept? Is e-transfer or pre-authorized debit available?
- 17
Are there any NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees? (In Ontario, these are capped at $20.)
- 18
What does the last month's rent deposit cover? Will it earn interest?
- 19
Are there any fees not listed in the lease — move-in fees, amenity charges, or admin fees?
- 20
Has the rent been increased recently? When was the last increase and by how much?
Pro Tip
Ask these questions in writing (email or text) so you have a record of the answers. Any verbal promises that contradict the lease may be hard to enforce without documentation.