Deposits & last month's rent
What you can collect — and what you can't — in Ontario.
General information, not legal advice. Ontario rules and timelines change — always confirm the current forms and requirements with the Landlord and Tenant Board or a licensed paralegal before acting.
What's allowed
In Ontario you may collect a rent deposit equal to one rental period's rent (usually one month). It can only be applied to the last month's rent — not to damage or cleaning.
What's not allowed
Damage deposits, key deposits beyond the actual replacement cost, and automatic cleaning fees are not permitted. You must also pay the tenant interest on the rent deposit each year, at the guideline rate.