Avoid at all costs -- unethical gatekeeping tactics used to restrict access to housing. Gatekeeping access through invasive preconditions like this fuels systemic exclusion and directly worsens Ontario's housing crisis.
I contacted this agent to view a rental property and was immediately told I had to disclose my income, household debt, and credit score just to book a showing.
Let me be clear: there is no legal requirement under Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) to submit this kind of sensitive information before viewing a property. When I politely declined and asked to view the unit first, the agent refused and insisted no showing would happen unless I complied.
This kind of behavior isn't just pushy -- it's unethical and likely violates legal and ethical standards, especially if the agent is RECO-licensed. It violates basic consumer protection standards and contributes to systemic exclusion in an already broken housing market.
I have filed formal complaints with:
- The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), and
- The Ontario Human Rights Tribunal (HRTO).
Housing is a right -- not something you should have to qualify for before you even walk in the door. read more