Verify Landlord Identity

Work through these steps before sending a deposit or first month's rent.

Sample checklist only — not legal advice. When in doubt, contact WUSA Student Legal Protection.

Ask for the landlord's full legal name and confirm it matches the lease or sublet agreementCriticalFor low-rise Waterloo rentals: search the address on the City of Waterloo rental licensing portal City of Waterloo rental license lookup →Request a live video tour from inside the unit (not a pre-recorded walkthrough)CriticalCross-check the phone number (Canada 411 or reverse lookup) — does the name match?Request Ontario's Standard Form of Lease (or valid sublet agreement) before any paymentCritical Ontario Standard Lease guide →Confirm they accept Interac e-transfer — not wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptoCritical