Successfully finding a new rental is not always as easy as finding a listing and contacting a landlord. There is a lot of competition for rentals in our community, so being prepared ahead of time can raise your chances of finding your new home.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enhance your chances of finding a suitable rental and avoid potential pitfalls.
Beware of Scams
Never send money without seeing the unit
If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is
Be cautious of prices that are too low or too high
Determine a Budget
Add utilities if they are not included
Identify Requirements
Consider proximity to amenities, schools, or public transportation
Prioritize needs over wants
Quickly Contact Landlords
The market is competitive, contact landlords right away to set up viewings as soon as possible
Talk to Neighbours
Get insights from neighbours about the rental units and the neighbourhood
Evaluate the Landlord
Note how easily they can be contacted and how quickly they show the unit
Be wary if they delay or request a deposit before resolving important details
Be sure to call the landlord to find out more information about the unit and book a viewing.
Call between 9:00 am and 9:00 pm
Record the landlords you’ve called with Name/Date/Rental price
Avoid giving too much personal info
Ask about other possible available units
Example Questions to Ask
How much are rent and utilities?
What is the estimated cost of utilities?
Are there laundry facilities?
Is parking available?
What is your pet policy?
How do you manage maintenance requests?
Being prepared will speed up the process and will show the landlord that you are responsible and reliable.
Be sure to bring a positive attitude to your viewing, which includes not complaining about a previous landlord or employers.
These are some of the documents you may be asked for:
Photo ID – If you do not have valid ID, there is an ID clinic located at the Guelph Community Health Centre at 176 Wyndham St. N.
Proof of your Income – If you are employed, you can show a recent paystub if requested. If you are on Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Programme bring a recent statement with you and let the landlord know that pay directs can be set up to guarantee payments.
Credit Check – If you have good credit, print out a free report from a website such as Credit Karma.
References(previous landlords, employers, colleagues, mentors, etc.) – If you have had positive rentals in the past ask those landlords to write a brief letter stating dates you rented and details such as good rent paying habits and that you were a good fit in their unit.
Your goal is to make a positive impression on the landlord as there could be many people applying for the same unit.
Give a great first impression by:
Be on time or early
Dress professionally
Be polite
Let the landlord know you are showing interest by:
Express your interest if you like the apartment.
Ask for an application or details on the application process
Thank the landlord for their time
Submit the application promptly
Follow up if you don’t hear back
Be prepared to apply to multiple units
Congratulations on your new home! Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and pleasant rental experience.
Rent Payment
Pay rent on time
If there is a need for slight delay, notify the landlord right away, but do not make a habit of it
Unit Care
Keep the unit clean.
Avoid damage
Avoid noise complaints
You are responsible for any damages made by guests
Tenant Responsibilities
Tenants are responsible for malicious or accidental damages to the unit, for example:
Nail marks in the wall
Spills on carpets
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords are responsible for damages due to fair wear and tear, for example:
176 Wyndham Street North (Inside the Guelph Community Health Centre) Guelph, ON N1H 8N9
The Clinic is open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:00pm; a legal outreach van operates in the County; please visit gwlegalclinic@lao.on.ca for more information.
T 519.821.2100 or 1.800.628.9205 (toll free within Wellington County, outside of Guelph)
If you need to report an issue concerning a tenant, staff member, or any community-related concerns, please fill out and sign our online Tenant Issue Report form.
