Students Living in Brampton

Brampton is home to many post-secondary institutions that play a vital role in advancing knowledge, driving innovation and preparing skilled professionals essential for economic and societal growth. Students living in Brampton enrich the culture and vibrancy of our communities.

Community-Based Approach: Many students begin their studies in Canada as a pathway to citizenship, often carrying the burden of expectations of their families while facing additional obstacles that differ from those experienced by domestic students. A community-based approach to student housing helps foster a sense of connection and support. When students integrate into their neighbourhoods, they build meaningful relationships, feel less isolated and create a strong support network. This benefits local businesses, encourages community engagement and contributes to a healthier environment. When students feel welcomed and included, they thrive, positively impacting the broader community.

Rights of a Tenant: In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) outlines the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants of residential properties. Tenants of rental units have many rights under the RTA but also share in the responsibility of maintaining the unit, including ensuring it is free from refuse and garbage. For more information, tenants may refer to the Landlord and Tenant Board Guide to the Residential Tenancies Act.

Off-Campus Housing Resources

There are many reputable platforms to find legal rental accommodations for students in Brampton. Sheridan College and Algoma University for example, have partnered with the following platforms to provide services to students and landlords in the City of Brampton.

Place4Students - This platform allows landlords and students to post safe, available and vetted rental listings, which students can browse. Features include Google Maps, real-time databases, detailed descriptions, customer service support and photos and floor plans.
Canada Homestay Network (CHN) - This platform offers all-inclusive housing options where students can live with a host family, integrating into the community.
Sparrow - This is a home sharing platform that connects students with verified, fully furnished rental accommodations. Sparrow offers flexible lease terms, ensures safety standards and provides added benefits such as tenant insurance, credit reporting and student discounts. The platform also manages rent collection, tenant screening and ongoing support, delivering a seamless experience for both students and landlords.

Steps to Renting Off Campus

1. Get Ready

Think about what you need in a rental - location, budget, roommates, accessibility.

Gather documents like ID, references or proof of enrollment so you're ready to apply.

2. Do Your Research

Learn about housing types, tenant rights and how to spot scams.

Make sure you understand legal rentals, red flags for unsafe situations and how to stay protected.

3. View Listings

Ask questions, check for safety and take photos.

Don't feel rushed - trust your gut and watch for signs of poor conditions or sketchy landlord behaviour.

4. Understand Your Lease

Read everything carefully before signing.

Know your rights, avoid illegal rentals and reach out to your school or the City of Brampton if something doesn't feel right.

5. Live Safely

Once you've moved in, know your responsibilities and how to get help with repairs or issues.

Keep communication open and be aware of any signs of exploitation.

6. Move Out Smart

Give proper notice, clean the unit and take photos for your records.

Document everything to make sure your deposit is returned.

For more information on housing resources and support services, visit your local student housing office or university website.

Rental Housing Safety and Resources

Landlords are responsible for ensuring their properties comply with all municipal by-laws and standards, including acquiring the required licences and/or registrations to construct and operate a rental unit. If students looking for housing want to confirm if their current or prospective rental is compliant with City of Brampton regulations, they may contact 3-1-1 (or 905.874.2000).

Local Resources: For information about resources available across the community related to housing, newcomer supports, mental health and substance abuse, and others, please refer to the Community Resource Poster, available online at www.brampton.ca/communitysafety.
Provincial Resources: In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act protects tenants from harassment and abuse by landlords. If you are experiencing harassment by your landlord, you can file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Emergency Resources: If you or someone you know are victims of a criminal act, including human trafficking or fraud, contact Peel Regional Police non-emergency line or Peel Crime Stoppers. In the case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Brampton Charter for Improving the International Student Experience

The Brampton Charter for Improving the International Student Experience presents a concrete action plan that will make a positive difference in the lives of international students who choose to study and stay in Brampton. The Charter builds on what was learned from research on accountability measures and their impact, other post-secondary charters, legislative instruments and the many compelling ideas that emerged from International Student Summit held in July 2022.

International Student Charter Guiding Principles

Appreciate that the international student experiences are complex, multifaceted, distinctive and as heterogeneous as the students themselves.

Respect that international students contribute diverse perspectives that enrich that learning experience for all students and are not competing with domestic students for post-secondary spaces.

Recognize the distinct stressors, atypical obstacles and macro- and micro-level factors that influence the lives of international students.

Acknowledge the need to view the international student experience holistically beginning from when a student considers studying in Canada to beyond graduation.

Define the international student experience to encompass physical, mental, social, cultural, financial and academic well-being, which includes immigration, employment, housing, health, racism, food security, language and belonging.

Respond through multi-stakeholder engagement to fill the gaps and bridge the silos that challenge a smooth and seamless international student experience.