It is important to know the rights and responsibilities of tenants in Canada. Whether you are a landlord or a renter, here are some essential points to remember:
      ■ Security deposit. It is customary to pay the landlord a security deposit before moving into a rented residence. The deposit usually cannot amount to more than half of one month's rent. The full deposit, plus interest, will be returned to the renter if he leaves the residence in good order when he moves.
      ■ Inspection. Before moving into a rental unit, do not forget to check each room carefully for damage. Make a written list of the faulty items and condition of each room. Also ask the landlord to prepare a list of items he will repair.
      ■ Tenancy agreement. This agreement specifies the amount of rent and rules regarding such things as number of occupants and keeping of pets. The law has some basic protective measures for tenants, such as sufficient heat and proper maintenance.
      ■ Rent. Rent can only be increased once a year. Notice of an increase must be given in writing well in advance.
      ■ Letting the landlord in. The landlord does not have the right to come into your rented house or apartment any time he wants except in emergencies, such as a fire. He must serve notice in writing at least a day before he plans to visit, and he must specify the time and reason for entering your premises.
      ■ Moving out. Before moving out, it is advisable to give 30 days written notice to the landlord.
      ■ Disagreements. If there is a disagreement between the landlord and the tenant that cannot be resolved, one can turn to a government rental agent to seek arbitration.

      (N.B. The rights of tenants and landlords vary from province to province. The above are meant to serve as broad guidelines only.)

      LANGUAGE  NOTES   語文註解
      (1)  right = what you can do 權利
      (2)  responsibility = what you should do 責任；義務
      (3)  tenant = a person who occupies or lives in 
            a property owned by someone else 租客
      (4)  landlord = a person who rents a property, 
            e.g. an apartment, to a tenant 業主
      (5)  essential = very important 非常重要
      (6)  security deposit = 按金
      (7)  customary = usual 通常
      (8)  residence = 住所
      (9)  cannot amount to = 不得超過
      (10) interest = （此處解）利息
      (11) inspection = 檢查
      (12) faulty = working badly 有毛病的
      (13) tenancy agreement = contract between landlord
             and tenant 業主與住客之間的合約
      (14) protective measures = 保護措施