Sublet
A sublet is when a tenant rents their unit to another person temporarily while retaining legal responsibility under the lease.
September 30, 2025
What is a Sublet?
A sublet is a rental arrangement where a tenant rents out their unit to another person (the subtenant) for a set period, while retaining legal responsibility under the original lease. Sublets usually require landlord consent under provincial laws.
Why Subletting Matters in Real Estate
Sublets matter in real estate because they provide tenants flexibility when temporarily leaving a unit while ensuring lease obligations continue. For landlords, sublets involve risk if subtenants fail to comply with lease terms.
Example of Subletting in Action
A tenant in Toronto takes a temporary job abroad and sublets their apartment to a friend for six months, with landlord approval. The original tenant remains liable for rent and damages.
Key Takeaways
- Tenant rents out unit to a subtenant temporarily.
- Original tenant remains legally responsible under lease.
- Sublets usually require landlord approval.
- Provides flexibility for tenants needing temporary absence.
- Risks include subtenant non-compliance or damages.
Related Terms
- Assignment
- Lease Agreement
- Tenant Rights
- Residential Tenancies Act
- Landlord Consent


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Year-over-year change in residential unit sales for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2024 to June 2026. Source: 






15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)

Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects
The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
