Safe communication tips for renters and landlords
Protect yourself during the rental process with secure messaging, written agreements, careful information sharing, and clear records for renters and landlords.
How you communicate during the rental process matters as much as what you communicate. Keeping your conversations secure and well-documented protects both renters and landlords if anything is disputed later.
Use a Platform With Built-In Messaging
Communicating through a rental platform's built-in chat keeps your conversation tied to the listing and the tenancy. It creates a timestamped record of everything that was discussed and agreed, which is far more useful than a string of text messages if a dispute arises.
On liv.rent, all messages between renters and landlords are stored securely within the platform alongside lease documents and payment records, giving both parties a complete record in one place.
Never Move Conversations Off Platform Before Signing
Scammers frequently try to move conversations to personal email, WhatsApp, or text early in the process, before any verification has taken place. This removes the accountability that comes with platform-based communication. Stay on the platform until the lease is signed and you've confirmed the tenancy is legitimate.
Don't Share Sensitive Information Early
Renters should not share their Social Insurance Number, banking details, or copies of their passport with a landlord until they have verified the listing is legitimate and are ready to proceed with a lease. Landlords should not need your SIN to run a credit check. Under PIPEDA, only information necessary for the stated purpose should be collected.
Landlords should be equally cautious about sharing access codes, keys, or banking details through unverified channels.
Put Agreements in Writing
If anything is agreed verbally, such as a repair to be completed before move-in, a parking space being included, or a specific move-in date, follow up with a written message confirming the details. Written records are enforceable. Verbal agreements are much harder to prove.
Keep Records of Everything
Both renters and landlords should keep copies of all communications, notices, receipts, and documents related to the tenancy. Store them somewhere accessible and organized. In the event of a dispute before a provincial tribunal, a clear paper trail is your strongest asset.