Getting Started

Whether you are a first-time renter or an experienced tenant, finding the right place takes effort and time. The seven parts in this section will help you prepare to look for rental accommodations.

Because the law governing landlords and tenants in Canada varies among the different provinces and territories, specific information appears in the Provincial & Territorial Fact Sheets.

Seven Elements of Preparation:

• Identify Your Needs
  Provides some hints about basic information that you'll need to collect in order to conduct an effective rental search.
  
• Where to Look
  Helps identify where to look for a rental accommodation and includes tips for searching in a distant location.
  
• Before Meeting Prospective Landlords
  Sets out a landlord's point of view and lets you know what the landlord can and cannot ask on a rental application.
  
• The Credit Check
  Explains what credit ratings are and what's involved in a credit check.
  
• Renting in Spite of Bad Credit
  Identifies things you can do when you have poor credit.
  
• Before Meeting the Landlord
  Explains how you can make a good impression when meeting a landlord.
  
• Shared Accommodation: Pros, Cons and Considerations
  Identifies important considerations when including a roommate in your rental plans.