Credit checks for renting in Canada: what landlords see and what score you need
How tenant credit checks work in Canada: soft vs hard checks, what landlords see, what score helps, and how to check and improve your credit for free.
By Leap Editorial · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
Most landlords want some evidence that you'll pay rent reliably, and a credit check is one of the most common tools. Here's what actually happens.
Do landlords need my permission?
Yes. A landlord or screening service should get your consent before checking your credit. On Leap, you give consent in the app, for a specific application, before any check runs.
Soft vs hard checks
- A soft check shows your credit information without affecting your score. Leap uses soft checks.
- A hard check happens when you apply for credit, like a loan or credit card, and can affect your score slightly.
If someone wants to run a hard inquiry just to rent you an apartment, ask why.
What a landlord sees
Depending on the service, a landlord may see:
- Your credit score, on Canada's scale of 300 to 900
- Number of accounts and how much of your available credit you use
- Late or missed payments
- Collections, judgments or bankruptcies
On Leap, landlords see a summary: score and band, number of accounts, utilization, late payments and collections. Not your full report.
What score do I need?
There's no single cut-off. In general, a score in the high 600s or above is seen as good, and the higher the better. But landlords look at the whole picture: a lower score with a strong explanation, steady income and a great landlord reference can still win.
Check your own report first
You can get your credit report for free from both Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada. Check it before you start applying so there are no surprises, and dispute any errors with the bureau.
How to strengthen your credit before you rent
- Pay every bill on time. Payment history matters most.
- Keep balances well below your limits.
- Don't open several new accounts right before you apply.
- If you have a past problem, be upfront and explain what's changed.
No credit history?
That's common for newcomers and students. See renting in Canada with no credit history for what to offer instead.
Ready to apply? Your Leap profile includes credit consent only when a landlord asks for it. Browse rentals.
Frequently asked questions
Does a rental credit check hurt my score?+
A soft check does not affect your credit score. Leap uses soft checks. Hard inquiries, used for loans and credit cards, can have a small effect.
What credit score do landlords in Canada want?+
There's no fixed minimum. Scores in the high 600s and above are generally viewed as good, but landlords also weigh income, rental history and references.
How can I see my credit report for free?+
Both Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada let you access your credit report for free. Checking your own report doesn't affect your score.
