Tenant

RentsafeTO

RentSafeTO: Apartment Building Standards is a bylaw enforcement program that ensures apartment building owners and operators comply with building maintenance standards. The program applies to apartment buildings with three or more storeys and 10 or more units. Condo buildings, townhomes, or units in a private home (basement or main floor apartment) are not part of the RentSafeTO program.
This section provides guidance for tenants and landlords on rental housing in the City of Toronto. It aims to address questions that may arise during tenancy, give resources around the rights and responsibilities that tenants and landlords are to expect, and help with navigating the rental process.

 

Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) Housing

Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI), or subsidized housing, is made available by the City to make rent affordable for households. In most cases, RGI rent is 30 per cent of a household’s monthly Adjusted Family Net Income (AFNI). The AFNI is determined annually using each household member’s Notice of Assessment (annual income tax return). If you receive social assistance, the rent is based on the rent benefit set by the Ontario government. 

The number of people in need of subsidized housing exceeds the number of units available, meaning that wait times for an applicant to receive housing are significant. You are encouraged to consider RGI housing as a long-term housing plan, not an immediate solution to housing needs or emergency situations. 

 

RenoRIGHTS Tool: toronto.ca/renoRIGHTS

The Resources, Information and Guidance for Housing & Tenant Stability (RIGHTS) tool helps renters understand their rights and connect with resources if they are potentially facing an eviction due to a renovation or repair in their unit. Additional resources:

Disclaimer and Limitations on the Use of this Tool


The RIGHTS tool and the information contained within it is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice or an opinion of any kind. Individuals should contact a lawyer, paralegal or legal clinic to discuss their specific legal issues.


If you still have questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Be sure to include your full name, municipal address, and phone number in your email/voicemail if you are not able to speak to someone on the phone. 

[email protected]

416-392-7919

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