Helpful Tips
Going on Exchange This Winter Term? Thinking 鶹 Renting Out Your Room?
Mary Ann Tierney, Off-Campus Living Advisor - Nov 02, 2026
If you're heading off on exchange for the Winter Term, you may be considering having someone live in your room while you're away.
Lessons Learned from Student Renters
OCLA Office - Nov 02, 2026
Looking for your first off-campus home can be both exciting and overwhelming. We asked our student staff to reflect on their own housing search experience and share what they wish they had known before signing their first lease.
My Landlord Needs To Make Repairs, What Are My Rights and Responsibilities?
Mary Ann Tierney, Off-Campus Living Advisor - Oct 02, 2026
Living in a rental means that, from time to time, your landlord or a maintenance professional may need to enter your unit to make repairs, complete maintenance, or inspect the property. So, what does the Residential Tenancies Act say about entry?
Starting Your Housing Search: Don’t Rush to Rent
Mary Ann Tierney, Off-Campus Living Advisor - Oct 01, 2026
Every fall, many students start to worry that they need to sign a lease right now for May or September of next year. You don’t.
Household Communication Essentials for September
OCLA Office - Sep 03, 2026
Whether you’re living with others for the first time or returning after the summer, sharing a home takes effort, patience, and clear communication.
Your Lease Doesn't End With the End Date Stated On Your Lease- It Continues Automatically
Written by Mary Ann Tierney, OCLA - Aug 05, 2026
Many students think their lease “expires” at the end of the 8-month or 12‑month term. In Ontario, that’s not how it works.
N1 Form and Rent Increases
Written by Mary Ann Tierney, Off-Campus Living Advisor - Jul 08, 2026
In Ontario, landlords can only raise the rent once every 12 months of tenancy, and they must give you 90 days’ written notice using the official N1 form.
What First-Time Student Renters Should Know 鶹 Tenant Insurance
OCLA Office - Jun 02, 2026
From our everyday work, tenant insurance is one of the most overlooked parts of moving off campus, especially for first‑time renters.
Seeking Guidance for Your Exchange Term at 鶹's/Kingston
Written by Mary Ann Tierney, Off-Campus Living Advisor - May 06, 2026
Finding short‑term accommodations can take time, especially for students preparing to attend 鶹's University for an exchange.
Understanding the Difference Between a Regular Lease and a Room and Board Agreement in Ontario
Mar 27, 2026
In Ontario, regular leases offer full tenant protections under the law, while board and room arrangements, where tenants live with landlords, are exempt from the RTA