Before you let people into your rental unit you must set out a comprehensive lease agreement that protects your interests.
Update: The standard lease has changed and an updated version is now available. Until February 28, 2021, a landlord and tenant may use the old or updated version of the standard lease. For most new residential tenancy agreements signed on or after March 1, 2021, you must use the updated standard lease.
While there is a prescribed template, it is likely that “one size fits all” approach is not the optimal one in your particular situation. You might want to add additional terms to the agreement and set out rules that are very specific to the rental unit or property, such as rules about the use of common spaces or amenities to the agreement.
Any extra term which attempts to take away a right or responsibility under the act is void (not valid or legally binding) and cannot be enforced. Some examples of void and unenforceable terms include those that:
- do not allow pets (however, the landlord can require the tenant to comply with condominium rules, which may prohibit certain pets)
- do not allow guests, roommates, any additional occupants
- require the tenant to pay deposits, fees or penalties that are not permitted under the act (e.g., damage or pet deposits, interest on rent arrears)
- require the tenant to pay for all or part of the repairs that are the responsibility of the landlord