Will the New Standard Lease Form Protect Landlord Rights in Ontario?

Starting April 30, 2018 every new residential tenancy (with a few exceptions) entered into in Ontario must use the government’s new Standard Lease Form. The lease form was updated in December 2020. It can be found at

http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/FormDetail?OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH&ENV=WWE&TIT=2229E&NO=047-2229E

The 14 page Standard Lease Form is supposed to provide both information on landlord rights and responcibilities, and provide tenants information about their rights and responsibilities. Reduce the illegal terms in leases and misunderstandings caused by verbal tenancy agreements, and reduce the need for Landlord and Tenant Board hearings to resolve disputes.

The Standard Lease tries to address all landlord and tenant relationships. It does this poorly. There are many sections which are confusing or likely to confuse.

However, if a landlord fails to use this Standard Lease Agreement, the tenant may request it. If the landlord fails to provide one, it could lead to the tenant legally withholding one months’ rent.

Does the 14 pages cover all issues needed to protect a landlord?  Not even close. At least a landlord is permitted to add an appendix to the Standard Lease to cover issues to protect the landlord. The appendix cannot include any illegal terms.

There are appendixes a landlord can purchase to add to the Standard Lease. I highly recommend that landlords add an appendix with additional terms.