Searching for an apartment for rent in London Ontario can feel overwhelming, but you can find options that fit your budget, commute, and lifestyle by focusing on trusted listing sites and local neighbourhoods. Expect a wide selection—from studios to multi-bedroom units—and use filters for price, pet policies, and amenities to quickly narrow choices.
As you look, pay attention to proximity to work, transit, and schools, and prepare a strong rental application with references and proof of income to improve your chances. This article will walk you through where to find current listings, how to compare neighborhoods, and practical tips to speed up your application so you can secure the right place.
Finding Apartments for Rent in London Ontario
You’ll need to balance location, budget, and building features when searching. Prioritize transit access, proximity to work or school, and the amenities that fit your daily routine.
Best Neighborhoods for Renters
Consider Downtown if you want walkable nightlife, restaurants, and frequent transit; expect older apartment buildings and some newer condo conversions. Choose areas along Richmond Row or near Western University for shorter commutes and more rental turnover, which can make finding short-term or furnished units easier.
Look at Old North and Westmount for quieter residential streets, parks, and a mix of houses converted to multi-unit rentals; these neighborhoods suit renters seeking a calmer environment while staying close to central services. Byron and Glen Cairn offer newer developments and family-friendly layouts if you need more space or in-suite laundry.
Average Rental Prices
Rental prices in London vary by neighborhood and unit size. Expect approximate market ranges:
- Studio/Small 1‑bed: CAD 1,100–1,400 monthly
- 1‑bed: CAD 1,200–1,600 monthly
- 2‑bed: CAD 1,500–2,200 monthly
- 3‑bed: CAD 1,900–2,800 monthly
Prices trend higher closer to downtown and near Western University. Factor in utilities and parking; some listings show base rent only. Use local listing sites and filter by neighbourhood and pet policies to compare current asking rents before touring.
Key Amenities to Look For
Prioritize amenities that lower your monthly hassle: in-suite laundry, heat/hydro included, and secure entry rank high for convenience. For commuting, check dedicated parking or nearby transit stops and whether the building has bike storage.
Assess building management and maintenance responsiveness by asking current tenants or checking recent reviews. Other useful features: on-site gym, elevator (for upper floors), in-building storage, and pet-friendly policies. Confirm internet/cable providers and any additional fees for amenities before signing.
Rental Application Process and Tips
Prepare to show income proof, ID, rental history, and references. Know your rights under Ontario law and expect common lease terms like fixed-term length, utilities responsibility, and pet rules.
Required Documents
Bring government-issued photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) and your Social Insurance Number only if a credit check requires it. Provide proof of income: recent pay stubs (last 2–3), a letter of employment with salary and start date, or Notice of Assessment if self-employed.
Include at least two references: previous landlords with contact info and one personal or professional reference. Prepare a rental history list with past addresses, landlord names, move-in/out dates, and reasons for leaving. If you have a co-signer, include their ID, income proof, and consent to a credit check.
If you’re a newcomer, add immigration documents (work permit, study permit, PR card) and a Canadian bank statement. Bring a completed application form, and be ready to pay a reasonable application fee only if it covers a credit/background check — Ontario limits what landlords can charge for key deposits and such.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
You have the right to a written lease and to quiet enjoyment of the unit. Landlords must follow the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA): they can’t evict without proper notice and must maintain the unit’s habitability.
You must pay rent on time and keep the unit reasonably clean. Report repair issues in writing and allow the landlord reasonable access for repairs with proper notice (24 hours for non-emergency visits is common). Subletting or assigning your lease requires landlord consent unless the lease or RTA says otherwise.
Security deposits in Ontario are limited (last month’s rent is allowed; no pet or key deposits). You can request receipts for rent payments and ask for a written condition report at move-in to protect your damage deposit claims.
Common Lease Terms
Expect either a fixed-term lease (commonly 6 or 12 months) or a month-to-month agreement after a term ends. Fixed terms set rent and rules for that period; termination before the end may incur penalties unless both parties agree.
Look closely at clauses on utilities: who pays electricity, heat, water, and internet. Note included services and any billing arrangements or estimated utility contributions. Check rules about pets, smoking, and alterations — many landlords require written permission and may impose pet rents or deposits.
Review renewal and rent increase terms. Landlords must follow provincial rent increase guidelines and provide proper notice for increases. Also confirm parking, storage, and visitor policies in writing to avoid surprises during your tenancy.
