What You Need to Know as a Property Owner in Ontario
Owning a rental property comes with real legal responsibilities. Here's the friendly, plain-English version of what matters most, and why having an experienced property manager on your side makes all the difference.
Your Legal Obligations as a Landlord
Since April 30, 2018, Ontario law requires most private residential landlords to use the government's Standard Lease. Beyond that, landlords are legally responsible for keeping the unit safe and well-maintained, and must follow the Ontario Human Rights Code when selecting tenants — screening must be based on legitimate criteria like income and references, never on protected personal characteristics.
Rent Increases & the Annual Guideline
Ontario sets an annual rent increase guideline. For 2026, that guideline is 2.1%, the lowest it's been in four years. Rent can only increase once every 12 months, and landlords must give 90 days' written notice using the proper form. Units first occupied after November 15, 2018 are generally exempt from the guideline cap, but still follow the same 12-month and notice rules.
Repairs & Your Responsibilities
Landlords are responsible for repairs, structural maintenance, and keeping essential services in working order. Staying on top of maintenance isn't just good practice, it's a legal obligation, and it's one of the main reasons owners choose professional management.
Entering the Rental Unit
Landlords must give tenants 24 hours' written notice before entering a unit, except in genuine emergencies. This applies even to routine inspections or showing the unit to prospective tenants.
Ending a Tenancy the Right Way
Evictions must go through the proper legal process with the Landlord and Tenant Board. A landlord can never simply change the locks, remove a tenant's belongings, or shut off utilities to force someone out — doing so carries serious legal and financial risk. Ontario's rental rules are actively evolving in 2026, which is exactly why having a property manager who stays current on compliance protects your investment.
Insurance & Documentation
Landlord insurance is separate from tenant insurance and strongly recommended for every rental property. Keeping clear maintenance records and documentation also protects you if a dispute ever reaches the Landlord and Tenant Board.
This is general information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult the Landlord and Tenant Board or a licensed paralegal or lawyer.
Our Process
Here's exactly what happens from the first phone call to your property being fully managed.
01
Free Consultation
We start with a conversation about your property, your goals, and what kind of support you're looking for, whether that's full management, leasing only, or maintenance help. No pressure, no obligation.
02
Property Assessment & Marketing Plan
We walk the property, recommend a competitive rent price based on the local market, and prepare professional photos and a listing ready to attract qualified tenants.
03
Tenant Screening
We market the vacancy, conduct showings, and screen every applicant with credit checks, income verification, and landlord references, so only qualified applicants make it to your desk.
04
Your Approval
We send you the completed applications for qualified candidates, and nothing moves forward until you approve the tenant. You always have the final say on who moves into your property.
05
Move-In & Onboarding
Once you've approved a tenant, we handle lease signing, a documented move-in inspection.
06
Ongoing Management & Support
From there, we take care of rent collection, maintenance coordination, inspections, financial reporting, and lease renewals, keeping you informed every step of the way without requiring your day-to-day involvement.
What Property Owners Say
Real feedback from owners who trust us with their investment.
"Moving Forward Property Management and Services has helped us manage our 6 rental units over the past several years. It has been a wonderful experience and I am truly thankful for all their help and expertise. The team is extremely attentive and very knowledgeable. They respond to issues quickly and help find the right solution. I would highly recommend them to manage any property."
V. Wan
Property owner, 6 units
"I have had a very positive experience with Moving Forward Property Management & Services. Dana and Joe are professional, reliable, and always quick to respond. They communicate well and genuinely care about both the property and the tenants. I highly recommend their services to any property owner."
Irena J.
Property owner
"Working with Moving Forward has been seamless from the start. They're reliable, easy to reach, and handle everything with real professionalism — I don't worry about my property anymore, and that peace of mind is worth a lot."
Jeff W.
Property owner and business owner
