How to find apartments for rent in Canada

Finding apartments to rent in Canada can feel overwhelming, especially with varying rules, prices, and practices depending on the province or city you’re looking in. Whether you’re moving to a major city like Toronto or Vancouver, or settling in smaller centres like Halifax or Saskatoon, understanding how the rental process works is key to securing a place that fits your needs and budget. In this guide, liv.rent breaks down the most important steps and considerations for renting an apartment in Canada, from setting a budget to understanding lease agreements and navigating local rules.

Set your rental budget

Rental prices in Canada vary widely depending on the city and province. In major urban centres like Vancouver and Toronto, one-bedroom apartments often rent for over $2,400–$2,600/month. In contrast, cities such as Winnipeg, Halifax, or Québec City typically see one-bedroom prices closer to $1,200–$1,600/month. It’s important to research current rental averages in your desired location using reliable sources such as liv.rent’s monthly rent reports.

Average rent costs in Canada

When determining your rental budget, it’s essential to account for more than just the base rent. Many listings in Canada do not include all housing-related expenses, and overlooking these can lead to unexpected monthly costs. Below are common charges renters should be aware of:

• Utilities: This usually refers to heat, water, and electricity, but not all rentals include every utility. Some older buildings or basement suites may exclude one or more, adding $50–$150/month. In British Columbia, for example, tenants often pay BC Hydro separately, while in Alberta, gas and electricity are typically billed individually.
• Internet and phone: These are rarely included in rent and can cost between $60–$100/month, depending on your provider, city, and service speed. Fibre-optic service is more common in large cities, while smaller towns may have fewer options.
• Tenant insurance: Most landlords require tenants to carry insurance before move-in. This protects personal belongings in case of fire, water damage, or theft, and typically costs $15–$30/month, depending on coverage.
• Parking fees: Not all rental units come with a designated parking spot. In cities like Calgary, Montreal, or Ottawa, underground or surface parking can add $50–$200/month to your expenses. In some areas, street parking requires a municipal permit.
• Laundry access: If the unit doesn’t include in-suite laundry, you may need to rely on shared in-building machines or laundromats. Expect to pay $2–$4 per load in shared facilities.
• Move-in or key fob fees: Some condo buildings charge additional administrative fees, such as move-in fees, elevator reservation deposits, or key fob activation charges. These can range from $50–$200, depending on the building.

Choose your location

City vs. suburb: cost, commute, and convenience

Where you choose to live in Canada will significantly impact your rental experience, from price to lifestyle. Urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer easy access to public transit, jobs, and amenities, but tend to have higher rents and smaller living spaces. Suburban areas surrounding these cities, such as Burnaby (near Vancouver), Mississauga (near Toronto), or Longueuil (near Montreal), often offer more space for less money, though with longer commute times.

To help guide your decision, liv.rent publishes monthly rental market updates for key regions. These reports provide up-to-date rental averages, neighbourhood comparisons, and year-over-year trends — helping you assess affordability and make data-informed decisions:

• Toronto Rent Report
• Vancouver Rent Report
• Montreal Rent Report
• Alberta Rent Report

How to research neighbourhoods

Once you’ve chosen a city or region, the next step is to narrow down your preferred neighbourhoods. Consider factors such as safety, proximity to work or school, access to public transit, grocery stores, and green space. Tools like Google Maps, local city websites, and liv.rent’s neighbourhood guides can provide useful insight into what each area offers.

For example, Vancouver’s West End is known for walkability and proximity to beaches, while Calgary’s Beltline offers a mix of affordability and downtown convenience. In Montreal, neighbourhoods like Le Plateau or Griffintown are popular with students and young professionals, each with its own rental price range and character. Doing neighbourhood research early helps you focus your search and ensures you find a rental that fits your lifestyle and priorities.

Understand furnished vs. unfurnished rentals

What’s typically included in furnished units

In Canada, furnished rentals are commonly found in downtown cores, near universities, and in short-term rental markets. A fully furnished unit usually includes essential furniture such as a bed, sofa, dining table and chairs, and kitchenware like pots, pans, and utensils. Some may also include linens, towels, and small appliances like toasters and kettles. However, what’s included can vary, so it’s important to request a detailed inventory before signing a lease.

Furnished apartments tend to come at a premium, with prices often 10–30% higher than comparable unfurnished units, although this is not always the case. They’re especially popular in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, where many international students and temporary workers need move-in-ready options. If you’re planning a short stay or don’t own furniture, this type of rental may be worth the higher cost.

When it makes sense to rent unfurnished

Unfurnished apartments are the standard in most of Canada’s long-term rental market. These units typically come with major appliances, fridge, stove, oven, and sometimes a dishwasher or in-suite laundry, but no furniture. In newer developments, it’s common to see modern kitchens and built-in laundry even in unfurnished suites.

Renting unfurnished makes the most financial sense if you’re planning to stay for six months or longer, already own furniture, or want the freedom to personalize your space. They also offer better long-term value, as you’re not paying extra for convenience. In smaller cities and suburban areas, furnished options are often limited, so most renters default to unfurnished listings. Whether you choose furnished or unfurnished depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay, and whether convenience or customization matters more to you.

Search on trusted rental platforms

Why use liv.rent for verified listings and safe applications

When searching for an apartment in Canada, using a trusted rental platform is one of the best ways to protect yourself from scams and wasted time. liv.rent is Canada’s safest rental platform built for both landlords and tenants, with a strong focus on safety, transparency, and convenience. All listings go through a multi-step verification process, including ownership checks and fraud detection, helping renters avoid common issues like fake units or misleading photos.

The platform also allows you to apply digitally, submit supporting documents securely, and even sign leases online, making it ideal for renters relocating across provinces or arriving from abroad. Unlike classified sites, liv.rent’s built-in trust features, such as verified landlord profiles and optional credit checks, give tenants peace of mind during every step of the process.

How to avoid scams and fake listings

Rental scams are a growing concern across Canada, particularly in cities with tight rental markets like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Fraudsters may post attractive listings at below-market rates, ask for deposits before a viewing, or impersonate landlords without actually owning the property.

To avoid scams:

• Never send money before signing a lease or viewing the property.
• Watch out for vague listings with few details or overly generic photos.
• Verify the landlord’s identity and ownership, especially if they’re unwilling to meet or communicate clearly.
• Use platforms like liv.rent that offer listing verification and secure communication tools.
• Trust your instincts, if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.

Know your tenant rights and responsibilities

Lease agreements and what to read carefully

In Canada, most provinces require a written lease agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy. This document will typically include details such as the monthly rent, duration of the lease, what utilities are included, rules about pets or smoking, and procedures for ending the tenancy. Some provinces, like Ontario and British Columbia, have standardized lease templates that landlords must use.

Before signing, carefully review the lease for:

• Start and end dates of the tenancy
• What’s included in the rent (e.g. heat, water, internet)
• Rules around subletting, guests, or noise
• Late payment fees and procedures
• Move-in/move-out responsibilities

Never sign a lease without reading it in full. If you’re unsure about any terms, consult a local tenant advocacy organization or legal resource in your province.

Rules around rent increases and evictions

Each province has its own legislation governing how much and how often rent can be increased, as well as the rights landlords have to end a tenancy.

• British Columbia and Ontario set annual rent increase caps and require at least 90 days’ written notice.
• Alberta and Saskatchewan allow more flexibility but still require notice and a minimum lease period before increases.
• Quebec allows landlords to raise rent at lease renewal, but tenants can contest the increase with the rental board.

Evictions must also follow strict guidelines. Landlords generally cannot evict without cause and must provide written notice, often with months of advance warning, depending on the reason. In most cases, eviction notices can be contested at a provincial tribunal.

Prepare your documents

What landlords typically ask for

To rent an apartment in Canada, you’ll usually need to provide several documents as part of your application. These help landlords assess your reliability as a tenant and confirm your identity and income. Commonly requested documents include:

• Government-issued photo ID: A driver’s licence, passport, or permanent resident card.
• Proof of income: This could be recent pay stubs, a letter of employment, or a T4 slip.
• References: Typically from previous landlords or employers who can vouch for your responsibility.
• Credit report: Some landlords may request a credit check or ask for a report from Equifax or TransUnion.
• Completed rental application: Many platforms, including liv.rent, allow tenants to fill this out digitally for added convenience.

In provinces like Ontario or British Columbia, landlords are not permitted to request certain documents, such as your SIN (Social Insurance Number), unless necessary. Be sure to review your province’s rental laws to know what is and isn’t allowed.

Tips for first-time renters or newcomers to Canada

If you’re new to the country or renting for the first time, you may not have local references or a Canadian credit history. In these cases, you can strengthen your application by:

• Providing a guarantor or co-signer — someone with a stronger financial profile who agrees to take responsibility if you default.
• Offering a larger deposit — though this must comply with provincial rules (e.g. only first and last month’s rent allowed in Ontario).
• Preparing a letter of intent — a short letter explaining your situation, financial stability, and interest in the unit.
• Using a verified platform like liv.rent — which allows you to build a trusted renter profile and apply digitally with confidence.

Having these documents ready in advance will help you act quickly in competitive markets and increase your chances of securing a rental.

Consider pet policies if you have a pet

How to find pet-friendly rentals

Not all rental units in Canada allow pets, and those that do often come with restrictions on the type, size, or number of animals permitted. When searching for a rental, use filters on listing platforms like liv.rent, which consistently features a higher percentage of pet-friendly listings compared to other rental platforms in Canada. Listings on liv.rent clearly indicate whether pets are allowed, and if there are any limitations.

Pet-friendly housing is more commonly found in suburban areas or purpose-built rental buildings, while many condo units and smaller landlords in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary may follow building bylaws that restrict or prohibit pets. Searching on platforms like liv.rent helps renters with pets quickly identify suitable listings and avoid wasting time on units that won’t accommodate their needs.

Understand rental deposits and fees

Security and damage deposits by province

Most Canadian landlords require tenants to pay a deposit before moving in, usually equivalent to first month’s rent, and in some provinces, also last month’s rent. This is standard practice in Ontario, where landlords are permitted to collect both at the start of the tenancy. In British Columbia and Alberta, however, landlords can only request one month’s rent as a security deposit.

It’s important to confirm what’s being collected and ensure it’s clearly documented in your lease. Landlords must provide a receipt for any deposit taken, and the funds are usually held until the end of the tenancy unless otherwise specified.

Security and damage deposits by province

In addition to first and last month’s rent, some provinces allow landlords to collect separate deposits for security or potential damage. These deposits are designed to cover issues like unpaid rent, repairs beyond normal wear and tear, or key replacement. However, deposit regulations vary widely across Canada, and understanding your province’s specific rules can help you avoid overpaying or agreeing to illegal terms.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s allowed in different provinces:

• British Columbia: Landlords may request a security deposit of up to half of one month’s rent, plus an additional pet damage deposit if applicable. Deposits must be returned within 15 days of move-out, provided no damage is found.
• Alberta: A security deposit of up to one full month’s rent is permitted. Landlords must keep it in a trust account and pay annual interest unless the lease states otherwise.
• Ontario: Only a rent deposit (up to one month’s rent) is allowed. Damage deposits are illegal, and landlords cannot charge extra for cleaning or key replacement.
• Quebec: No deposits are allowed, landlords may not collect advance rent, security deposits, or key deposits, making it one of the most tenant-friendly provinces in this regard.

Book viewings

What to look for during in-person or virtual tour of apartments for rent

Once you’ve narrowed down a few promising listings, the next step is to schedule viewings, either in person or virtually. A thorough walkthrough can help you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure the unit matches the listing description. Here’s what to pay attention to:

• General condition: Look for signs of water damage, mould, pests, or poorly maintained appliances.
• Noise levels: Listen for street noise or sounds from adjacent units to get a sense of sound insulation.
• Appliances and fixtures: Check that everything works, from lights and faucets to stove burners and laundry machines.
• Storage and layout: Make sure there’s enough storage space and that the layout fits your needs.
• Heating and cooling: Ask about the type of heating system and whether the unit has air conditioning — especially important in cities with extreme weather like Winnipeg or Calgary.

Virtual tours are increasingly common, especially for long-distance renters. In these cases, ask the landlord or property manager for a live video walkthrough and request a floor plan or additional photos if needed.

Red flags to avoid while finding apartments for rent in Canada

Some units may look good online but reveal issues upon closer inspection. Watch out for:

• Unwillingness to schedule a viewing: If a landlord insists on a deposit before you’ve seen the unit, it’s likely a scam.
• Mismatched details: Discrepancies between the listing and the actual unit (like location, square footage, or furnishings) can indicate false advertising.
• Pressure to sign quickly: Be cautious of landlords pushing you to commit immediately without allowing time to review the lease or ask questions.
• Unprofessional behaviour: Poor communication, vague answers, or evasiveness could point to difficult landlord-tenant relationships down the road.

Submit your application and sign the lease

How to apply digitally with liv.rent

Once you’ve selected a unit, the next step is to submit your rental application. On liv.rent, this process is fully digital, allowing you to create a verified renter profile, upload documents securely, and apply to multiple listings without needing to fill out new forms each time. Your profile can include ID verification, income proof, credit score, and references, giving landlords a clear picture of who you are and helping you stand out in competitive markets. liv.rent’s built-in application system ensures a streamlined process while protecting your personal information.

What to expect after approval

If your application is accepted, the landlord will usually provide a lease agreement for you to review and sign. On liv.rent, this can also be done entirely online, with digital lease signing and secure document sharing, no printing or in-person meetings required.

Before signing, make sure you:

• Read the lease thoroughly, including all terms and conditions
• Confirm the rent amount, payment schedule, and what’s included (e.g. heat, parking)
• Check for any special clauses about pets, guests, or maintenance
• Get a copy of the signed lease for your records

After signing, you may be required to pay a deposit (according to provincial rules) and schedule your move-in. The entire process, from listing to lease, can be completed through liv.rent, making it a convenient and secure choice for renters across Canada.

FAQ: How to find apartments for rent in Canada

What documents do I need while finding apartments for rent in Canada?

Most landlords will ask for a government-issued photo ID, proof of income (such as pay stubs or a job offer letter), and references from previous landlords or employers. Some may also request a credit report. If you’re applying through a platform like liv.rent, you can upload and verify these documents digitally to streamline the process.

Can I rent an apartment in Canada without a credit history?

Yes, it’s possible, especially if you’re a newcomer or first-time renter. In these cases, landlords may ask for alternative proof of reliability, such as a guarantor, larger upfront deposit (where legal), or a letter of intent explaining your situation. liv.rent supports verified renter profiles that help showcase your trustworthiness even without a Canadian credit score.

Is it legal for landlords in Canada to ask for a damage deposit?

That depends on the province. For example, British Columbia and Alberta allow landlords to collect a damage deposit, while Ontario and Quebec do not. Instead, Ontario landlords can request a rent deposit of up to one month’s rent. Always check your province’s tenancy laws before agreeing to any deposit.

How can I tell if a rental listing is a scam?

Red flags include landlords asking for payment before a viewing, too-good-to-be-true pricing, and vague or incomplete listing information. To avoid scams, use a trusted platform like liv.rent, which verifies listings and landlords and provides secure messaging and lease signing tools.

What is the difference between a furnished and unfurnished apartment in Canada?

A furnished apartment typically includes basic furniture, kitchenware, and sometimes linens or appliances. These are common in short-term rentals or near universities. An unfurnished apartment usually includes only major appliances and offers more flexibility and better value for long-term renters. liv.rent allows you to filter for furnished or unfurnished units when searching.

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