Winter Heating Requirements Across Canada

Ontario

Most municipalities require 20-22°C (68-72°F) from September through June. Toronto specifically mandates a 21°C minimum temperature.

Quebec

Among the strictest standards, requiring 21°C (70°F) in all rooms, measured in the center 1.5 meters above floor level.

British Columbia

No provincial minimum temperature, but many municipalities have requirements. The Residential Tenancy Act requires suitable living conditions.

Alberta

No provincial minimum, but municipal bylaws often specify requirements. Edmonton requires 22°C (72°F) during winter months.

Practical Considerations When Your Lease Is Ending

Document the Condition

If continuing your tenancy, document any existing wear and tear to protect yourself from future claims.

Know Your Timeline

Mark your calendar for when you need to give notice if planning to move out (typically 60 days in Ontario, 30 days in Quebec, and one tenancy period in BC).

Get Renewals in Writing

If negotiating a new fixed-term lease, ensure all terms are clearly documented, especially if any conditions are changing.

Understand Rent Increase Rules

In provinces with rent control, understand whether the end of a fixed term allows for an above-guideline increase (generally it doesn't).

Landlord Heating Responsibilities

Regardless of specific temperature requirements, Canadian landlords must maintain heating equipment with regular servicing of furnaces and boilers. They must respond promptly to heating failures, treating them as emergency repairs requiring immediate attention.

Landlords are also responsible for providing adequate insulation, ensuring sealed windows, and protection from drafts. If the lease specifies that heating is included in the rent, the landlord must cover these costs regardless of price increases.

What to Do If Your Heat Is Inadequate

Communicate in writing, documenting indoor temperatures
Know emergency repair provisions in your province
Contact municipal property standards if issues persist
Document any health impacts
Consider filing with your provincial tenant authority

‍

Fixed-Term Lease Conversions by Province

Ontario

Fixed-term leases automatically convert to month-to-month when they expire, unless you agree to another fixed term, give notice to terminate, or the landlord has served a valid eviction notice. Rent remains subject to guideline limitations.

British Columbia

Similar to Ontario, leases generally convert to month-to-month upon expiration. "Vacate clauses" are now eliminated except when the landlord/family intends to occupy the unit or when tenant employment with the landlord has ended.

Quebec

Fixed-term leases automatically renew for the same term and conditions, unless the tenant gives notice 1-2 months before ending or the landlord gives notice of modification 3-6 months before ending.

Alberta

Fixed-term leases end on the specified date with no automatic renewal. If the tenant remains and the landlord accepts rent, the tenancy converts to month-to-month. Landlords can choose not to continue without providing a reason.

Common Challenges for Newcomer Tenants

Documentation Requirements

Many landlords request Canadian credit history, employment verification, and references that newcomers simply don't have.

Higher Deposit Demands

Some landlords request multiple months' rent upfront or large security deposits from those without Canadian rental history.

Guarantor Requirements

Landlords may require a Canadian guarantor to co-sign the lease, which can be difficult for newcomers to arrange.

Discrimination

Some newcomers face discrimination based on their country of origin, accent, or immigration status.

Rights and Protections for Newcomers

Regardless of your immigration status or how long you've been in Canada, you have the same tenant rights as Canadian citizens.

Protection from Discrimination

Human rights codes in all provinces prohibit discrimination based on place of origin, race, ethnicity, and citizenship.

Deposit Limitations

The same provincial limits apply to everyone. Ontario: first and last month's rent only. BC: maximum half-month security deposit. Alberta: maximum one month security deposit.

Documentation Alternatives

While landlords can ask for credit checks, they must accept reasonable alternatives if you don't have a Canadian credit history.

Lease Validity

A lease cannot be invalidated based on immigration status. Your tenancy is protected regardless of status changes as long as you pay rent and follow terms.

‍

Solutions for Newcomer Rental Challenges

Alternative Proof of Reliability

International credit reports
Proof of tuition payment
Scholarship or funding letters
Bank statements showing sufficient funds
Employment contracts

Institutional Assistance

Many universities and colleges offer housing services specifically for international students, including lease guarantor programs.

Special Resources

Settlement agencies funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Campus housing services and international student offices
Newcomer housing programs with rent supplements
Tenant advocacy organizations with multilingual materials

Find Housing Resources

Document all communications with potential landlords, especially if you suspect discrimination. Know where to report discrimination through your provincial human rights commission.

Find Housing Resources

Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Sagewise Financial Group is dedicated to helping Canadians secure their financial futures through tailored insurance solutions. Whether you're planning for today or tomorrow, our team is here to show you how private health insurance can play a vital role in your comprehensive financial strategy. Contact us today to get started.