Renting a Condo in Ontario: Lease Rules, Bylaws, and What Tenants Miss

Updated: January 2026

Condo rentals are common across Ontario, especially in urban markets and transition periods between buying and selling. However, many tenants assume a condo lease works the same way as renting a house. In practice, condo rentals come with additional rules that can catch tenants off guard.

This guide explains what prospective tenants need to know before renting a condominium unit, including lease rules, condo bylaws, and common issues that arise after move-in.

For a broader overview of Ontario leasing rules, start with our main guide: Leasing in Ontario.

Condo Rentals Operate Under Two Sets of Rules

When renting a condo in Ontario, tenants are subject to two legal frameworks at the same time:

1. The Residential Tenancies Act and the Ontario Standard Form of Lease
2. The condominium corporation’s declaration, bylaws, and rules, supported by guidance from the Condominium Authority of Ontario

While the lease governs rent, term, and tenancy rights, condo bylaws govern how the unit and common areas are used. If a lease clause conflicts with a condo bylaw, the bylaw controls day-to-day use of the unit.

This is especially important when reviewing additional lease clauses. Some clauses appear reasonable but do not hold up under Ontario tenancy law or are overridden by condo rules. We break this down in detail in Ontario Lease Clauses That Hold Up at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Condo Rules Tenants Commonly Overlook

Many disputes arise not from the lease itself, but from condo rules tenants never reviewed before signing. Commonly overlooked rules include:

• Pet size, breed, or quantity restrictions
• Noise and quiet-hour enforcement
• Visitor and guest limitations
• Use of balconies and outdoor space
• Storage locker and parking restrictions

Tenants should request the condo rules in writing before committing. Verbal explanations are not enough when enforcement is handled by property management. For a practical overview of condo rule expectations, review the CAO guidance on condo rules and compliance.

Move-In and Move-Out Rules Matter

Condo move-ins are rarely informal. Many buildings require:

• Advance elevator bookings
• Security deposits for moves
• Restricted move-in hours
• Management approval before moving

If these rules are ignored, condo corporations may fine the unit owner, who can then seek recovery from the tenant. This can happen before the tenant fully settles in, so it is worth confirming the building’s move procedures early.

Pets in Condo Rentals

Unlike most non-condo rentals, condominium corporations may restrict or prohibit pets through their bylaws. These rules apply even if a landlord personally allows pets.

Tenants should confirm pet rules directly from the condo corporation or property manager before signing. A lease clause cannot override condo bylaws.

Guest Policies and Long-Term Visitors

Some condos limit how long guests may stay or how frequently visitors can access amenities. While occasional guests are usually permitted, extended stays may trigger enforcement.

If you expect frequent visitors or extended guest stays, clarify the building’s guest and occupancy expectations upfront. That conversation prevents compliance notices later.

Short-Term Rentals and Subletting

Many condo corporations prohibit short-term rentals entirely, including Airbnb-style use. Some also restrict subletting or require registration or approval.

Even when tenancy law allows assignment or subletting in certain situations, condo rules may still restrict how the unit can be used. For that reason, tenants should confirm the building’s policies before making plans that involve sharing, subletting, or short-term occupancy.

Noise Complaints and Enforcement Reality

In condo buildings, noise complaints are often documented by security or management. Repeated complaints can escalate quickly and may affect a tenant’s ability to remain in the unit.

Unlike single-family homes, condo enforcement is structured and ongoing. Tenants should take noise rules seriously, including during daytime hours.

Repairs and Who to Contact

Condo tenants often struggle to determine who handles repairs. Responsibility depends on the issue:

• In-unit appliances and fixtures usually fall to the landlord
• Common elements are handled by property management
• Emergency issues may require immediate management contact

As a result, tenants should ask at the start of the tenancy who to contact for common scenarios such as water leaks, HVAC issues, and after-hours emergencies. Clear instructions prevent delays and confusion.

Renovations, Décor, and Alterations

Condo bylaws frequently restrict changes such as:

• Flooring replacements
• Window coverings visible from outside
• Balcony furniture and décor
• Installations requiring drilling or wiring

Even minor alterations may require approval. Therefore, confirm what is permitted before making changes or purchasing items that depend on building approval.

Insurance Requirements

Condo rentals involve multiple insurance layers:

• Condo corporation insurance covers common elements
• Landlord insurance covers unit-related risks for the owner
• Tenant insurance covers personal belongings and liability

Most landlords require tenant insurance. Tenants should also ask what the landlord expects for liability coverage and request clarity on move-in liability requirements if the building requires a moving deposit.

The Condominium Status Certificate

While typically reviewed during purchases, a status certificate also reveals useful context about a building’s operations. It can indicate:

• Financial health of the corporation
• Frequency of enforcement actions
• Strictness of rule enforcement

Tenants do not usually receive this document, but landlords and Realtors® may reference building information when assessing suitability and risk.

Tenant Screening Still Applies

Tenant screening rules for condo rentals are the same as other residential properties. Landlords should screen fairly and consistently, and tenants should prepare documentation that supports affordability.

For detailed guidance, see: Tenant Screening in Ontario.

Where Disputes Go

Lease enforcement falls under the jurisdiction of the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario. At the same time, condo corporations may enforce bylaws separately through property management and the corporation’s compliance process.

Understanding which rules apply, and who enforces them, helps tenants respond properly if an issue arises.

Planning Before You Sign

Professional boundary note: This article reflects common Ontario condo leasing practice from a Realtor® perspective. For legal interpretation or dispute resolution, independent legal advice should be obtained.