Renting a Home
Many newcomers rent their first home. In fact, about 40% of all Ontario residents rent. Renting instead of buying can be good because you:
- Can move easily if you find a job in a different community
- Do not pay for most repairs
Settlement.Org has information about How can I look for rental housing? and What should I look for in an apartment/rental home?
Finding a Place to Rent
You can look for housing to rent in The Waterloo Region Record, Renter’s Guide, or on these websites:
You can also try Cooperative housing which is owned or managed by the people who live there.
Community housing offers affordable housing and subsidized (rent-geared-to-income) rates for people who find it hard to pay private rental market fees.
The Coordinated Housing Access Centre (CHAC) keeps a waiting list for most of the Community Housing in the Region. Get an application form on the CHAC website or pick one up at a 
community housing access sites.
Find out more about Community Housing and other housing programs.
If you are renting, you may have to pay your rent plus utilities. Utilities include:
- Water
- Electricity (hydro)
- Gas
- Oil
These costs may not be included in your rent. To find out, ask your landlord. If they are included, make sure it is written in your lease. If they are not included, you should call the utility company and ask for a moving-in notice. You usually have to pay for your phone and cable.
Some of the utility companies in Waterloo Region are:
Settlement.Org has information about the telephone system and providers in Ontario.
Different companies have different services and rates. Shop around for the best price and to learn more about the different services.
After your services are set up, the bills will be mailed to you. Pay the bill by the due date, or you will be charged interest (extra money). If you miss many payments, service may be stopped. Utilities can be paid by cheque or automatic (prepayment) billing. If you choose automatic billing, you allow the company to take the payment right out of your bank account.
You may also be interested in Buying a Home, Short Term Accommodation, or Housing Programs and Tips.
For more information…