Short Term Sublease Agreement Template for Canada

A Short Term Sublease Agreement is a legal contract that allows you, as an original tenant, to temporarily rent out your leased premises to another person (the subtenant) while you remain bound by your original lease agreement. This document creates a legal relationship between you and the subtenant while preserving your obligations to the original landlord under Canadian law.

When do you need this document?

You need a Short Term Sublease Agreement when you must temporarily vacate your rental property but want to return before your lease expires. Common situations include temporary work relocations, extended travel, study abroad programs, or medical treatment requiring extended absence. Students frequently use these agreements during summer breaks or co-op placements. Corporate tenants often sublease when employees are temporarily reassigned to different locations. The agreement is also essential when you want to share rental costs by bringing in a temporary roommate while maintaining your primary tenancy rights.

Key legal considerations

Before subleasing, you must obtain written consent from your landlord, as most lease agreements and provincial laws require this approval. You remain fully liable to your landlord for rent payments and property damage, even if the subtenant fails to pay or causes harm. The sublease cannot exceed the term of your original lease, and you cannot charge rent higher than what you pay unless permitted by provincial law. Security deposits from subtenants are subject to provincial residential tenancy regulations. You must ensure the subtenant understands they have limited rights compared to direct tenants, as they cannot typically appeal to tenancy boards for disputes with you. The agreement should clearly outline maintenance responsibilities, utility payments, and house rules to prevent conflicts.

Legal requirements in Canada

Each province has specific requirements under their Residential Tenancies Act that govern subletting arrangements. In Ontario, you need landlord consent unless your lease specifically allows subletting, and you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if consent is unreasonably withheld. Quebec's Civil Code requires landlord consent and allows the landlord to refuse for serious reasons. British Columbia permits subletting with landlord approval, while Alberta requires written consent. Most provinces prohibit charging subtenants more than the proportionate rent you pay. You must provide subtenants with copies of relevant portions of your original lease and inform them of their rights under provincial tenancy legislation. The agreement must comply with human rights codes prohibiting discrimination in housing selection. Additionally, you're required to maintain the premises according to building codes and safety standards throughout the sublease period.