Deposit Recovery Guide
Get your last month's rent back after move-out — Ontario rules, steps, and a demand letter PDF.
Information only — not legal advice. Ontario tenant law has exceptions. For your specific situation, contact WUSA Student Legal Protection or a licensed paralegal. WUSA Student Legal Protection →
1
Know what Ontario allows
- •Landlords can only collect a rent deposit equal to one month's rent (often called "last month's rent").
- •Damage deposits, key deposits, and pet deposits are generally not allowed under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).
- •Last month's rent must be applied to your final month — it is not a general damage fund the landlord keeps at move-out.
- •Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, faded paint) is usually not something you pay for at move-out.
2
Document before you leave
- •Take move-in photos using a dated move-in checklist under Documents.
- •Take date-stamped move-out photos of the same rooms and fixtures.
- •Email photos to yourself and the landlord the day you move out to create a paper trail.
- •Return keys in a way you can prove (email confirmation, witness, or dated photo).
3
Request your money in writing
- •Send a dated email: move-out date, forwarding address, amount owed, and deadline for payment.
- •Reference your move-in/move-out photos if the landlord claims damage.
- •Keep copies of every message — see the documents-to-keep checklist under Documents.
- •Use the demand letter generator below for a formatted PDF you can attach or print.
4
If the landlord refuses — file with the LTB
- •Form T1 (Tenant Application for a Refund) is used when money is owed after move-out.
- •There is no fee for tenants to file most LTB applications.
- •Bring your lease, payment records, photos, and all email correspondence.
- •Many students recover money simply by filing — landlords often settle before a hearing.
Official forms