Affordable Housing in Toronto? It is possible! But is it the right housing for you ?
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A Room to Grow in ?
Renting a room for a year is a way to build a landlord reference, and can be an affordable solution if in the right neighbourhood, with the right family etc., for you. Renting a room with a month-to-month lease holds the same responsibility as any tenancy lease. Homeowners (Landlords) need to follow the same rules as those offering a yearly lease.
Be the first one on Kijiji to write and call, have a first and last month rent deposit ready. Consider bringing a resume with you to introduce yourself if you are receiving OW, ODSP or EI (government benefit payments).
If room rental challenges such as food storage and cooking or washroom sharing is an issue for you, another option may be better.
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An Apartment to Share ?
Is sharing a possiblity for you? Are you leaving a transition house and know another resident who you could share peaceably with? If both named on a lease, you have equal rights in tenancy.
What if your room-mate chooses to leave? You would become responsible for the rent as still residing in the apartment, but could advertise for a room-mate. Having a Room-mate is legal in Toronto according to the number of occupants allowed. They will be named as an occupant to reside in the apartment rather than a tenant, and a landlord’s permission is not required.
If you are not named as a tenant on a lease (for example you are named as an occupant), you do not have all of the same rights/protections as a tenant.
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What to Consider ?
Affordability is always an issue, but so is peaceable living. It’s helpful to be as familiar as possible with the building, people, and neighbourhood you are moving into. Trauma after a fresh new housing start due to unsafety, health concerns or noise are common challenges in ‘affordable’ housing.
Rent-geared-to-income and ‘supportive housing’ peaceable living can vastly differ from property to property. If you have the opportunity, ask other tenants questions (infestations, fires, police presence, drugs/alcohol presence in the building, more).
Community legal services for housing, City health inspectors, and knowing your tenancy Rights can help you be proactive, and in control in your new housing environment.
