Real Estate Code of Conduct
All posts for house, apartment, or condo rentals on Kijiji must comply with the Kijiji Equality in Housing policy and all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws.
1. Roommate Ads
- Ads may state roommate preferences, but must not discriminate or exclude individuals based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics.
- Language must be inclusive and respectful, reflecting fair housing practices.
2. Security Deposits
Security deposits are generally limited to one month of rent, with the following provincial exceptions:
| Province/Territory | Allowed Security Deposit | Notes |
|---|
| BC, Manitoba, Nova Scotia | 1/2 month | Maximum allowed |
| Newfoundland | 3/4 month | Maximum allowed |
| Quebec | Not permitted | Security deposit and last month’s rent are prohibited |
| Ontario | Not permitted | Last month’s rent is allowed instead |
- Deposits must comply with provincial laws, including rules for accounting and return.
- Listings should clearly state all deposit requirements.
3. Key Deposits
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Key deposits are not allowed in most provinces, except:
- BC, Saskatchewan, Yukon: permitted
- Alberta: may be requested as part of the security deposit
-
Ads must clearly indicate if a key deposit is required.
4. Listing Accuracy and Transparency
To maintain a professional marketplace:
- Rent amount, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, utilities, and lease terms must be accurate and clearly described.
- Ads should include authentic photos of the property. Misleading or altered images may result in removal.
- Landlords or agents must provide valid contact information. Third-party listing agents must clearly disclose their role.
- Pet or smoking policies must be explicitly stated if restrictions apply.
5. Compliance with Policies and Laws
- Ads that violate Kijiji policies, fail to comply with local laws, or conflict with regulations such as the Quebec Charter of the French Language, may be removed at Kijiji’s discretion.
- Users are responsible for ensuring listings adhere to federal, provincial, and municipal housing, tenancy, and anti-discrimination laws.
6. Enforcement
Kijiji reserves the right to:
- Remove any listing that violates this Code of Conduct.
- Suspend or terminate accounts engaged in prohibited activity.
- Enforce policies consistently to maintain the safety, fairness, and integrity of the platform.
