Tenant’s Responsibilities Continued

Welcome back.  Our most recent blogs have weighed in heavily on tenant’s rights and responsibilities. We’ve outlined the fact that tenants do in fact have rights when it comes to their rental agreements. However, with rights come responsibility, and it’s important to understand that the landlord also has rights.  A part of the rights they have to their property is requiring you to uphold certain aspects of the contract. Here are some more responsibilities that you have as a tenant that you need to be aware of.

• Damages – If you or your guests cause damage to the property, you have an obligation to repair the damages, or face charges and fees in addition to the cost of the repair.

• Abide By The Law – Many tenants tend to think that they can simply live in the rental property free of the law because they are behind closed doors.  But when it comes to drugs and other illegal activity, you are contractually bound to abiding by the law, and any other provisions regarding illegal activity that may be listed in your rental agreement.

• Be Respectful – If you’re living in a multi-family unit, in which quarters can be fairly close, it’s important that you respect your neighbours.  This mostly regards noise, as this often tends to be the most common complaint between neighbors.

• Honour Your Lease – It’s important to understand that your rental agreement is a legal contract that you are bound to upon signing.  Understand that when you sign your lease documents, you are agreeing to everything within the contract.  However, your lease agreement terms must abide by the Residential Tenancies Act.

Being a good tenant means doing more than what is required of you.  It also helps you to have a good relationship with your landlord.  If you’re interested in knowing more about your lease agreement, talk to your property manager or landlord, or contact the professionals at Bridgeway Property Management in Toronto.