Accommodation in Ottawa

If you’re moving to Ottawa, you’ll have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from. No matter your budget, you should be able to find a home close to essential amenities and within commutable distance of your place of work.

Ottawa is a patchwork of different neighbourhoods, each with unique styles and characteristics. Whether you’re a young professional climbing the corporate ladder or arriving with your family, Ottawa has something for you. The city consistently ranks among the most liveable in the world, offering a high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and a unique bilingual environment where you can express yourself in both English and French.

Deciding where to live in Ottawa is critical for your smooth transition into a new life here. Luckily, Ottawa is a welcoming and hospitable city. Particularly in the suburban neighbourhoods, you’ll find that locals are quick to help you integrate into the community. The city’s multicultural environment and frequent cultural events make it easy to meet people and foster a sense of belonging.

Neighbourhoods in Ottawa

The central areas like The Glebe and ByWard Market are popular with young professionals due to their vibrant lifestyle, proximity to office buildings, and numerous entertainment options. ByWard Market, in particular, offers green spaces and river trails, perfect for fitness enthusiasts looking for outdoor activities. The affluent Rockcliffe Park is home to diplomats and businesspeople, providing a prestigious atmosphere with luxurious properties and access to top schools.

Westboro Village, in western Ottawa, is an up-and-coming area known for its lively street scene filled with boutiques, restaurants, and bars. It's a favourite among young professionals and couples, thanks to its excellent transport links, access to the Ottawa River, and a calendar full of community events. The area also offers stunning views of the Gatineau Hills and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation like cycling and paddleboarding.

Families moving to Ottawa can find many family-friendly suburbs, such as The Glebe and Alta Vista, which offer excellent schools, numerous parks, and strong community ties. Alta Vista's abundance of green spaces and active community associations make it ideal for raising children.

Read more about the Best (and Worst) Neighbourhoods in Ottawa.

Types of accommodation in Ottawa

When it comes to types of accommodation, Ottawa offers everything from compact city apartments to spacious single-family homes. Apartments are mostly located in the city centre and range from studios to multi-bedroom units. Townhouses, or row houses, are multi-level homes that share side walls with neighbouring units, commonly found in suburban areas. Condominiums are also popular, offering individual units within larger buildings, often with amenities such as gyms or pools.

For those looking for more space, duplexes and multiplexes are properties divided into multiple units, each with its own entrance. Single-family homes, typically found in the suburbs, provide privacy and are ideal for larger families or those seeking more room.

Certain considerations are necessary when renting older properties in Ottawa. Older homes often have charm and character but may come with maintenance issues like outdated plumbing or electrical systems. Older homes may also lack modern insulation or energy-efficient windows, which can lead to higher utility costs.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Furnished, semi-furnished, and unfurnished accommodation are all available, depending on your needs. Furnished properties provide the convenience of an immediate move-in experience without the hassle of buying or moving furniture, making them ideal for short-term assignments. That said, they often come at a higher price compared to unfurnished units.

Unfurnished properties generally have lower monthly rents but require an initial investment in furniture and appliances.

Short-term rentals

Short-term rentals have become increasingly popular in Ottawa, particularly among those who are only in the city for a limited time. These rentals are often fully furnished, offering amenities such as private gyms, pools, or even cinemas, and the convenience of utilities included in the listed price. Short-term rentals provide an excellent opportunity to check out different areas before committing to a long-term lease.

If you’d like to try out a specific area or suburb before making a long-term decision, short-term rentals are a flexible solution. Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com provide reviews and ratings, helping you identify reliable properties. Engaging local agencies that specialise in short-term leases can also be a great way to find a vetted option. Just verify the legitimacy of the host and property before committing.

Useful links

• The Met Luxury Rentals: If you’re looking for luxury living, the Met Luxury Rentals offers a range of upmarket suites in Downtown Ottawa. The building also offers desirable amenities such as an outdoor terrace, cinema, and penthouse pool. One of the most attractive offerings of the Met Luxury Rentals is its proximity to Ottawa’s business centre and exciting entertainment and restaurant options.

Finding accommodation in Ottawa

Finding accommodation in Ottawa can be approached in a few ways, each with its unique benefits. The best place to start your house hunt in Ottawa is online using property portals such as PadMapper, RentSeeker, REALTOR.ca, Rentals.ca. These platforms allow you to view listings tailored to your needs based on rental costs, property type and size, and suitability for students, families, or senior citizens. You can also filter searches based on amenities like parking or pet-friendliness.

Another popular option is to enlist the services of a real estate agent. Real estate agents in Ottawa are well-acquainted with the local market. They can provide a personalised service, helping you navigate the rental scene and advising on the best areas for value for money. 

Agents also have access to exclusive listings that might not be advertised on public platforms, making them a valuable resource if you’re looking for something specific or luxurious. Using an agent also comes with the benefit of professional negotiation support, which can help secure better terms or rental conditions.

Useful links

• PadMapper
• RentSeeker
• REALTOR.ca
• Rentals.ca

Renting accommodation in Ottawa

Making an application

When renting accommodation in Ottawa, it’s essential to understand the application process and what documents you’ll need. Typically, prospective tenants are required to provide personal identification, such as a valid driver’s licence or passport, along with proof of income, such as recent pay stubs, an employment letter, or bank statements to demonstrate financial stability. You may also need to consent to a credit check to assess your financial responsibility.

Landlords may also request references, usually from previous landlords or personal references, to ensure you have a good rental history. Sometimes, a co-signer or guarantor might be required, especially if you don’t meet certain financial thresholds. Be prepared to complete a detailed rental application form that includes your employment history, rental history, and personal information.

Leases, costs, and fees

A standard rental lease in Ottawa generally includes key components such as the names of both landlord and tenant, the property’s address and description, and the term of tenancy, specifying start and end dates. The lease will also outline the rent amount, due date, and acceptable payment methods.

Many landlords use the Ontario standard lease template, which provides a clear structure for both parties. It’s important to review the lease thoroughly to understand your maintenance responsibilities, rules regarding pets or smoking, and any other specific guidelines. Be mindful of potential hidden costs, such as parking fees, amenity charges for building facilities, or penalties for late payments.

Terminating the lease

If you need to end your tenancy in Ottawa, it’s vital that you follow the legal requirements. For fixed-term tenancies, you’ll need to provide at least 60 days’ written notice before the lease term ends, ensuring the termination date matches the end of your lease. The same 60-day notice applies for month-to-month tenancies, with the termination date corresponding to the end of a rental period.

Notices should be submitted using the appropriate forms like the official Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9). There are circumstances where shorter notice periods may apply, such as when a landlord gives notice for personal use of the unit or if they refuse a request to assign the lease. Always consult the Landlord and Tenant Board or seek legal advice if you’re unsure of your rights or obligations.

Useful links

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
• Your Rights as a Tenant in Ontario

Utilities in Ottawa

Utilities like water, electricity, and gas are not typically included in the rental price in Ottawa. With the frigid Ottawa winters, budgeting for these costs is essential. Condominiums do sometimes include certain utilities like electricity in the rental fee, so it’s worth checking your lease agreement carefully.

Electricity and gas

Electricity services in Ottawa are provided by two main suppliers. Hydro Ottawa serves the majority of urban areas in Ottawa within city limits.  Hydro One will be your electricity supplier if you’re living in certain rural areas of Ottawa, including parts of Cumberland, Osgoode, Rideau-Goulbourn, and much of the west end. Both providers offer multiple payment options, including online payments, pre-authorised debit, mail, or in-person at designated locations.

Natural gas in Ottawa is primarily supplied by Enbridge Gas. Enbridge handles the distribution of gas throughout the city and is responsible for maintaining the pipelines and ensuring reliable delivery. Payment options include online account management, pre-authorised payments, and traditional methods such as payment by mail.

You can also purchase your electricity and natural gas supply from licensed energy retailers like Just Energy, RiteRate Energy, and Summitt Energy, which offer different pricing plans and contract terms to suit your needs.

Water

The City of Ottawa manages water and sewage services for all residential properties. Register via the City of Ottawa’s My ServiceOttawa portal to set up your water account. Water bills are typically issued bi-monthly for residential properties, and you can pay online, via pre-authorised debit, by mail, or in person at city service centres.

Bins and recycling

Garbage, recycling, and green bin collection are managed by the City of Ottawa. Waste management services are funded through property taxes, so there is no separate billing for these services. New residents should familiarise themselves with the waste collection schedule, which varies depending on location.

Follow the city’s waste sorting guidelines, which include separating recyclables, organic waste (green bin), and general garbage.

Internet and cable

Internet and cable services are provided by a variety of companies, including Bell Canada, Rogers, and other regional providers. Availability may vary depending on your neighbourhood, so comparing packages is a good idea to find the best deal for your needs.

Most providers offer bundled services, including internet, cable, and sometimes phone services, which can be cost-effective. Installation usually requires an appointment, and it’s wise to schedule this ahead of time to avoid any delays in getting connected.

Useful links

• Hydro Ottawa and Hydro One
• Enbridge Gas
• City of Ottawa Water Services
• City of Ottawa Waste and Recycling