Off-Campus Student Housing in Ottawa FAQ

IK Rentals – Student Rentals Near Carleton University, University of Ottawa (uOttawa) & Algonquin Collegeikrentals.com


Do you rent rooms or full houses to students?

IK Rentals rents full houses and apartments to groups of students, not individual rooms.

All tenants sign one joint lease and share responsibility for the entire home. This is shared student accommodation, not a rooming house, and the property may not be divided into separate rental rooms.

What does joint tenancy mean for student housing?

Joint tenancy means all tenants are equally responsible for:

  • Rent and utilities
  • Property condition
  • Lease obligations

This applies to all off-campus student rentals with IK Rentals.

How long are student leases at IK Rentals?

All student rentals are fixed 12-month leases.

Tenants cannot end the lease early, but may find a subtenant to take over if they need to leave before the lease ends.

Will the landlord offer a lease renewal?

Yes. Lease renewals are offered before the end of the calendar year.

  • Lease terms remain the same unless renegotiated
  • Tenants have two weeks to accept
  • If not accepted, the property may be listed for rent

What happens if student rent is late or unpaid?

If rent is unpaid on the due date:

  • The landlord may file with the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board
  • If rent is unpaid for two weeks, eviction may occur
  • The last month’s rent deposit will be applied to arrears
  • Remaining tenants may find a replacement roommate
  • All tenants are responsible for their share of the rent only.

Can the landlord end a fixed-term student lease early?

Yes, only for legal reasons, such as:

  • Non-payment of rent
  • Cause or conduct issues

Tenants will receive 14 days’ notice, as required by Ontario law.

Can the landlord show the student rental while we live there?

Yes. The landlord may show the property with 24 hours’ notice.

Tenants are required to allow access for showings.

Are inspections allowed in off-campus student housing?

Yes.

  • Inspections occur within 1 day of move-in and move-out
  • During the lease, inspections require 24 hours’ notice
  • Tenants must allow access

Who is responsible for cleaning, upkeep and damage?

Tenants must:

  • Keep the whole property reasonably clean, his includes lawn care and snow removal.
  • Leave it clean at move-out

Tenants are responsible for damage caused by misuse or negligence, including:

  • Clogged toilets, sinks, and showers

The landlord covers repairs due to normal wear and tear.

Can students install locks on bedroom doors?

No. Bedroom door locks are prohibited.

This rule is required by:

  • City of Ottawa by-laws
  • Insurance regulations
  • Fire safety standards

Unauthorized locks must be removed at the tenant’s expense.

Can students paint or make changes to the rental?

No. Written permission is required before:

  • Painting
  • Installing nails or screws
  • Making any alterations

Do student rentals have smoke alarms and CO detectors?

Yes. All IK Rentals student homes meet or exceed Ontario fire safety regulations.

🚨 Tampering with or disconnecting fire alarms is illegal.

What happens if I lose my keys or get locked out?

Tenants must regain access without damaging the property.

Any costs or damages are the tenant’s responsibility. Planning ahead with roommates or a spare key is recommended.

Can students have guests or parties?

Yes. Guests are allowed.

Please:

  • Respect neighbours
  • Follow City of Ottawa noise by-laws

Damage or repeated complaints may result in eviction.

Is the student lease legally binding?

Yes. The lease agreement is legally binding on both the landlord and all tenants.

Off-Campus Student Housing Near Ottawa Universities

IK Rentals offers off-campus student rentals near:

  • Carleton University
  • University of Ottawa (uOttawa)
  • Algonquin College