Housing and Accommodations
Each neighbourhood in Toronto has its own distinct personality, contributing to the diversity that defines our city. Visit the following websites to learn more about neighbourhoods in Toronto:
You are advised to do your research before booking as quality varies between establishments. Visitors find to be a good source of reviews. For more information on housing and shelter, visit the .
91福利 has limited on-campus accommodations during the summer months. To find out more, please visit summer accommodations website.
Rentals
Short to Long-Term Accommodations
- , 1-888-787-7829, reservations@torontofurnishedrentals.com
- , 1-855-622-7688, info@delsuites.com
- , 1-844-288-1391, info@torontoluxurysuites.com
- , 1-855-697-9599, oliviashousing@gmail.com
Additional Resources
- : apartment rental listings with pictures; map-based searches
- : classified ads for jobs, housing, goods/services, local activities
- : one stop shop for information on relocation
- : supports the academic community with home exchange, home rental, house-sitting and sharing
- : provides the international academic community an opportunity to exchange, rent, buy and sell homes with other faculty, administrators and postdoctoral fellows
- : features Toronto鈥檚 residential rental properties and leading property management firms
- : operating in multiple cities across Ontario
- : options for short-term housing
Hotels and Vacation Rentals
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
To understand your rights as a tenant in Ontario, see . See also a to a standard lease as well as information on . Additional information is also available as follows:
- : Most people living in rental housing are covered by this Act, which was created to protect tenants, assists landlord and promotes investment in Ontario鈥檚 rental housing market.
- : The City of Toronto website provides residents with bylaws that directly affect living.
- : International law says that people in Canada should be able to get good housing that they can afford. To help achieve this in Ontario, tenants and landlords (or housing providers) have rights and responsibilities under the Human Rights Code.
- As a tenant, you have the right to equal treatment in housing without discrimination and harassment. Review the for more information.
- : The Federation of Metro Tenants' Associations (FMTA) is a non-profit organization which advocates for better rights for Tenants. FMTA provides resources in multiple languages.
Applying for a Rental Property
The following is a list of typical documents tenants are expected to provide when applying for a rental property:
- Signed offer letter.
- Full credit report including credit score for each adult tenant. This can be obtained at , for example. If you are lacking a credit history, you may also find it helpful to explore the services of .
- Rental application that includes references.
- Bank draft or wire transfer for 2 months' rent to be applied against the first and last months' rent.
If you are considering a condo purchase, you will find important information here on rights and obligations related to .
For information on a home purchase including warranty, home inspections, and choosing a builder, see .
A number of online resources are also available, including:
Contact Zenab Pathan for further information
Real Estate Agents
Information on selecting a real estate agent and protecting yourself from mortgage fraud can be found on the website.
We also have referrals for experienced realtors who have successfully helped many of our new hires find the perfect property (renting or buying).
Non-Resident Speculation Tax
The is a 15 per cent tax on the purchase or acquisition of an interest in residential property located in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Region (GGH) by individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of Canada or by foreign corporations (foreign entities) and taxable trustees. A rebate is available upon transitioning to permanent residence.
Utilities: Heat and Hydro, Water, Cable
Heat and Hydro
Most homes are heated by natural gas, oil or electricity (鈥渉ydro鈥�). In most apartments, the costs of heat, water, and electricity are included in the rent. If you have bought or rented a house, you will need to contact the appropriate agencies to begin service. The delivery of natural gas, a deregulated market, is supplied by a number of companies. Natural gas and oil providers can be found in the . Electrical service is supplied by the local electricity utility or with a unit sub-metering company, depending on who provides electricity service for the property. In Toronto, the local electrical utility is Toronto Hydro.
- 鈥� The Ontario Energy Board oversees the energy sector in Ontario. The Board makes sure electricity and natural gas companies follow the rules.
Water
Contact your local municipality/regional municipality to start your utility bill for water.
Cable
Telephone Services
There are several private companies that provide local phone services in Ontario. You may call or visit a provider suitable to your needs. You can purchase a wireless phone/phone plan and/or install a home phone.
- 1-866-310-2355
- 1-888-764-3771
- (Only Wireless): 1-888-481-3436
- (Only Wireless): 1-866-558-2273
- (Only Wireless): 1-866-995-6636
- : 1-888-999-2321
Telephone directories can be obtained free of charge online. lists all local individuals and commercial telephone subscribers. provides a list of businesses by the services they provide. provides the contact information of all government departments.
Local calls (City of Toronto and some nearby suburbs) are free from landline phones and will cost you from your cell phone. The rate is set by your provider. Long-distance calls (Toronto鈥檚 further suburbs and beyond) will cost you from a landline or a cell phone. The rate is set by your provider. Calling cards are a popular method for saving money. The same applies for international calls. Remember, to make an international call, you first have to dial 011. Calling cards can be purchased at convenience stores.
Garbage and Recycling Bins
- Call 311 or see on the City of Toronto website to request garbage and recycling bins.
- You may also wish to familiarize yourself with our .
- The gives you access to the Waste Wizard, which provides collection schedules and information about where to find the closest Drop-off Depot or donation location right from your smartphone or tablet.
Home Renovations and Household Services
- Service providers for home renovations and maintenance can be found on .
- You will find important information on home renovations and finding contractors on the website.
- You are also advised to review information on door-to-door sales and home service contracts found on the website.