Windsor Security Deposit Rules - Tenant Guide

Housing and Building Standards Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

This guide explains how security deposits and last-month rent deposits work for tenants in Windsor, Ontario, and how to get a disputed deposit returned. Provincial law governs what deposits a landlord may require, while local by-law and enforcement offices handle property standards and licensing for rental units. Read the steps to document deposits, request returns, and escalate disputes to the Landlord and Tenant Board or municipal by-law enforcement in Windsor, including official contacts and forms.

What deposits are allowed

In Ontario, landlords commonly take a "last month" rent deposit to be applied toward the final month of tenancy. Other types of deposits or holds may be restricted by provincial law; tenants should ask for a written receipt and a clear written agreement on how the deposit will be used and returned. Keep records of payments and communications.

Calculating returns and timelines

  • Check the lease for the agreed method of return and timeline; if not specified, request return promptly in writing.
  • Document unit condition with photos or video on move-out to contest deductions.
  • Ask for an itemized statement for any deductions.
Always get a dated receipt and keep communication in writing.

When a landlord may deduct

Landlords may make deductions for unpaid rent or for damage beyond normal wear and tear if the tenancy agreement permits and the deduction is documented. If a deduction is claimed, tenants should request an itemized list and copies of any invoices or repair bills.

Penalties & Enforcement

Disputes over security deposits are typically resolved under the Residential Tenancies Act through the Landlord and Tenant Board, while municipal by-law enforcement may address issues tied to rental licensing or property standards in Windsor. Specific penalty amounts for deposit mishandling are not specified on the cited provincial and municipal pages; tenants generally pursue remedies through tribunal applications or municipal enforcement processes.[1][2][3]

  • Fines or monetary orders: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, attempt direct recovery; then apply to Landlord and Tenant Board or file municipal complaint if by-law issues apply.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: tribunal orders for repayment, possession orders, or municipal compliance orders may be available.
  • Enforcer: Landlord and Tenant Board for tenancy claims; City of Windsor By-law Enforcement for rental licensing or property standards.
  • Appeal/review: tribunal decisions may have appeal or review routes; check the Landlord and Tenant Board for time limits and procedures.
If you must contest a deduction, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board promptly and keep all receipts and photos.

Applications & Forms

For deposit disputes, tenants file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board; consult the Board for the correct application form and filing fee. For local rental-licensing or property-standards complaints in Windsor, contact By-law Enforcement through the city website for complaint submission details and any local application forms.

Action steps for tenants

  • Ask for and keep a dated written receipt for any deposit paid.
  • Provide written notice requesting return at move-out and keep proof of delivery.
  • If the landlord withholds money, request an itemized statement and copies of invoices.
  • If unresolved, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board or a municipal complaint with City of Windsor By-law Enforcement.
Start the official complaint process within weeks rather than months to preserve evidence and timelines.

FAQ

Can a Windsor landlord require a security deposit other than last-months rent?
Under provincial rules landlords generally use a last-month rent deposit; other deposits may be restricted. Ask for the legal basis in writing and check the Landlord and Tenant Board guidance.[1]
How long after moving out should I expect my deposit?
Check your lease for a deadline; if none is specified request return in writing and, if withheld, consider applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board.[2]
Who enforces deposit return in Windsor?
Tenancy deposit disputes are handled by the Landlord and Tenant Board; related licensing or property issues can be raised with City of Windsor By-law Enforcement.[3]

How-To

  1. Collect and keep the deposit receipt and a copy of the lease.
  2. Document unit condition at move-out with photos and a dated list of items.
  3. Send a written request for deposit return and any explanation of deductions.
  4. If unpaid, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and attach your evidence.

Key Takeaways

  • Keep written receipts and photo evidence to support a deposit claim.
  • Use the Landlord and Tenant Board for tenancy disputes; contact City of Windsor for licensing or property-standards issues.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 - Ontario e-Laws
  2. [2] Tribunals Ontario - Landlord and Tenant Board
  3. [3] City of Windsor - By-law Enforcement

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