Most Canadian landlords want 650+. Here is what they actually check and how to get approved with a lower score.
Finding a rental apartment in Canada's competitive housing market is already difficult. A low credit score makes it significantly harder. This guide covers what Canadian landlords actually check, what scores they're looking for, and how to overcome a less-than-ideal credit history as a tenant.
What Credit Score Do Canadian Landlords Want?
There is no official minimum, but informal standards have emerged in Canada's rental market:
Score
Landlord Reaction
720+
Ideal tenant — no concerns, full approval
660-719
Approved by most landlords without conditions
600-659
May be approved with references; larger deposit possible
550-599
Harder to get approved; need strong other factors
Below 550
Significant difficulty; co-signer or substantial deposit often required
What a Landlord Sees on a Credit Check
When a landlord runs a tenant credit check, they typically see:
Your credit score (from Equifax or TransUnion)
Payment history on credit products
Any collections or public records
Hard inquiries (including recent rental applications)
Outstanding debts and balances
They do NOT typically see: your bank account balances, employment history (unless you provide it), or immigration status.
Rental Approval Estimator
Approval outlook:
Your Rights as a Canadian Tenant Around Credit Checks
In Canada, landlords are allowed to request your consent for a credit check. Key tenant rights:
A landlord must get your written consent before running a credit check
You have the right to see what information a landlord used to reject you
In most provinces, a landlord cannot demand bank statements or income tax returns as a condition of rental (though many do)
Human rights legislation prohibits denial of rental based on source of income in many provinces (BC, ON, MB, PEI)
How to Get an Apartment with Bad Credit
Offer more money upfront: First and last month's rent is standard; offering 3-6 months upfront signals financial reliability
Provide a co-signer or guarantor: A parent or friend with good credit can co-sign your lease
Get strong references: A letter from a previous landlord confirming on-time payment is powerful
Target private landlords: Individual landlords are more flexible than large property management companies with automated screening
Show proof of income: Recent pay stubs, employment letter, or bank statements showing consistent deposits
Explain the situation: If your bad credit stems from a specific event (job loss, illness, divorce), a brief honest explanation goes a long way with human landlords
Build your score now: Even if you need housing immediately, start building your credit today with KOHO's Credit Building feature. Within 6-12 months of consistent payments, your score will improve enough to give you significantly more rental options.
📈 Build Credit While You Spend
KOHO's Credit Building feature reports your monthly payment to Equifax — helping you build a Canadian credit history without a credit card. Starting at $7/month or free with KOHO Extra.