APARTMENT RENTAL NEWS

Why Renting from a Professional Property Management Company in Ontario is Better for Renters than Renting from a Private Landlord

In Ontario’s growing rental market, tenants have more options than ever when it comes to choosing a home. One of the biggest decisions renters face is whether to lease from a private landlord or a professional property management company. While both can offer housing, the experience, security, and quality of service often differ drastically. For tenants, the benefits of renting from a professional property management company go far beyond just finding a place to live.

Summary: Why Tenants Should Choose a Professional Company

Feature	Private Landlord	Professional Property Manager
Legal compliance	Varies	Consistently follows RTA
Maintenance	Often delayed	Timely and professional
Rent payment	Inconsistent methods	Online, secure systems
Communication	Informal	Professional and structured
Privacy	May be breached	Legally protected
Neighbours	Inconsistent screening	Professionally vetted
Amenities	Usually none	Frequently included
Stability	Can be uncertain (renoviction and personal use)	Business continuity
Homeownership Incentives	None	Available in select programs

1. Legal Protection and Consistency

Professional property management companies are governed by strict adherence to Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). These firms understand the regulations inside and out, ensuring:

1. Leases are legally compliant

2. Proper notice is given for rent increases or entry

3. Tenant rights are protected

In contrast, private landlords may unintentionally violate regulations due to lack of knowledge, leaving tenants vulnerable to unfair practices.

Stat to consider: The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) in Ontario sees thousands of tenant complaints annually, many involving improperly managed units by private landlords. (Source)

2. Reliable Maintenance and Repairs

Professional companies have dedicated maintenance teams and vetted contractors on-call for repairs. As a tenant, this means:

1. Quicker response times

2. Regular preventative maintenance

3. 24/7 emergency support

Private landlords, on the other hand, may delay repairs due to cost concerns or lack of availability. This can lead to prolonged discomfort and unresolved issues in the home.

3. Clear Communication and Accountability

Property management companies offer structured communication channels:

1. Online portals for rent payments and service requests

2. Transparent policies and procedures

3. Professional staff available during business hours

Renting from a private landlord often means inconsistent communication, informal agreements, and delays in resolving concerns.

4. Professional Tenant Screening = Better Neighbours

Management companies use standardized tenant screening procedures, which helps foster safer, more stable communities:

1. Credit checks

2. Rental history verification

3. Employment and income checks

These processes ensure that renters are placed in communities with others who meet the same standards. Private landlords may skip or inconsistently apply these checks.

5. Amenities and Well-Maintained Common Areas

Many properties managed by professional companies offer additional benefits:

1. On-site gyms, lounges, or green spaces

2. Regularly cleaned and maintained hallways and lobbies

3. Snow removal and landscaping services

Private rentals, particularly in single-home or basement units, often lack these features or don’t maintain them as diligently.

6. Seamless Move-in and Move-out Experience

Moving can be stressful. Property management companies simplify the process with:

1. Standardized leases

2. Detailed condition reports

3. Professional cleaning and turnover services

Private landlords may not follow formal move-in/move-out checklists or provide cleaning between tenants, leading to disputes or surprises.

7. Easy and Secure Rent Payments

Most professional firms provide:

1. Secure online rent payment portals

2. Automatic payment options

3. Digital receipts and records

This is far more convenient than chasing down a landlord for rent receipts or paying in cash or e-transfer with no formal record.

8. Privacy and Respect

Professional property managers must provide written notice before entering a unit (minimum 24 hours in Ontario, per the RTA). While this rule applies to all landlords, private owners are more likely to ignore or misunderstand it.

Tenants renting from companies report fewer privacy violations and more respect for their personal space.

9. Long-Term Stability

Professional management companies are in the rental business long-term. Tenants benefit from:

1. Predictable lease renewals

2. Fewer surprise evictions (e.g., for landlord’s own use)

3. Stable ownership

Private landlords may decide to sell or move in themselves, which can leave tenants scrambling.

10. Reputation and Reviews

Reputable management firms are easy to research. Tenants can:

1. Read online reviews

2. Check Better Business Bureau ratings

3. View listings on major platforms with full transparency

Private landlords rarely have public reputations, making it harder for renters to vet the rental experience in advance.

11. Homeownership Incentives

Some professional property management companies also offer exclusive incentives for renters looking to transition into homeownership. Programs like Drewlo Holdings' Rent.Save.Own. allow renters to apply a portion of their rent toward a future home purchase. This unique benefit can help tenants build equity and transition more easily into ownership without losing money spent on rent.

This type of incentive is rarely, if ever, offered by private landlords, giving professional firms a distinct advantage for renters planning their long-term future.

Final Thoughts

Renting from a professional property management company in Ontario offers tenants peace of mind, better service, and a more consistent experience. From legal protections to quality maintenance and seamless communication, the difference can be significant.

Before signing your next lease, consider not just the unit—but who’s managing it. Choosing a professional company can make all the difference in your rental journey.

Helpful Links for Ontario Renters:

1. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

2. Your rights as a tenant (Ontario.ca)

3. Drewlo Holdings Rent.Save.Own. Program