Waterloo Students Rentals: Questions Landlords Can And Cannot Ask

Most students are unclear as to the information landlords can request from students during the housing application process. As a result, many students are taken advantage of and their applications for Waterloo student rentals are judged based on information they did not have to provide. Student focused property management companies are an effective option to avoid this situation. They always act professionally and never ask inappropriate questions. They are solely interested in finding each and every student off campus housing that meets their specific requirements.

However, if you have decided to attempt to find Waterloo student rentals on your own, the following is a list of questions that landlords can and cannot ask when you apply for student housing:

Questions landlords can ask

Landlords have the right to ask students for the following information during the screening process:

• Questions about your current income and place of work

• The number tenants that will be occupying the property. They can also request their names and contact information.

• For references from past landlords. They can also ask for other references and their contact information.

• For permission to conduct a credit check

• If you have pets or are a smoker

• Any other questions that will help them effectively assess you as a potential tenant. However, questions cannot infringe upon your rights as identified by law.

• In terms of fees, landlords can request:

o First and last month’s rent

o Key deposits

What Landlords cannot ask

Landlords do not have the right to ask potential student tenants about the following information when applying for Waterloo student rentals:

• For your social insurance number

• For a deposit to cover any damage that may occur

• Personal questions related to:

o Your status (i.e. married, single, etc.)
o If you plan to have children
o Your age
o Your ethnic background or religion
o Your sexual preference
o Your legal status in the country

• Any other questions that infringe on your rights as an individual.

If you believe your landlord is violating the law or infringing on your rights you have options. You can refer to the Ontario Residential Tenancy Act to determine if your rights as a tenant are indeed being violated. Another option is to contact the off campus housing unit at your school. They will be able to help you with any issues you have with your landlord. If any situation with your landlord does not sit well with you, don’t be silent and allow yourself to be taken advantage of.

To avoid these potential issues, students attending school in the Waterloo area are now enlisting the services of student focused property management companies. Not only will students avoid having to deal one on one with landlords, using a professional company ensures students find suitable Waterloo student rentals. Student focused property management companies never ask inappropriate questions, understand the needs and requirements of student living, and have built their business around ensuring students find the best off campus housing option for their situation.

By: Holida T.

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Holida T. is a student housing expert. For more great information on Waterloo Student Rentals, visit www.domushousing.com.