Real Estate Code of Conduct

Housing Listings Rules on Kijiji

All rental listings for houses, apartments, condos, and rooms on Kijiji must comply with the Kijiji Equality in Housing policy as well as all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal housing laws.

These rules help ensure fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory rental practices for all users.


1. Equality and Fair Housing Requirements

Kijiji does not allow discrimination in housing listings.

Roommate and Preference-Based Ads

You may include roommate preferences (such as lifestyle or household compatibility), but you must not exclude or discriminate against individuals based on:

  • Race or ethnicity

  • Religion

  • Gender or gender identity

  • Sexual orientation

  • Disability

  • Family status

  • Any other protected characteristic under applicable law

All listings must use inclusive, respectful language consistent with fair housing standards.


2. Security Deposit Rules

Security deposits must follow provincial and territorial tenancy laws.

Maximum Allowed Deposits by Province/Territory

Location Security Deposit Rules
British Columbia Up to ½ month rent (maximum)
Manitoba Up to ½ month rent (maximum)
Nova Scotia Up to ½ month rent (maximum)
Newfoundland and Labrador Up to ¾ month rent (maximum)
Ontario Security deposits not permitted (last month’s rent allowed instead)
Quebec Security deposits and last month’s rent are not permitted

Security deposits must always comply with local rules regarding collection, documentation, and return.

Listing Requirement

All deposit requirements must be clearly stated in the listing.


3. Key Deposits

Key deposits are not permitted in most provinces and territories.

Exceptions

  • British Columbia: permitted

  • Saskatchewan: permitted

  • Yukon: permitted

  • Alberta: may be included as part of a security deposit (where applicable under law)

If a key deposit is required, it must be clearly disclosed in the listing.


4. Listing Accuracy and Transparency

To maintain trust and accuracy on the platform, all rental listings must be truthful and complete.

Required Listing Standards

Listings must accurately describe:

  • Monthly rent amount

  • Number of bedrooms and bathrooms

  • Utilities included or excluded

  • Lease terms and conditions

Photos and Representation

  • Photos must accurately represent the property

  • Edited or misleading images are not allowed

  • Listings should include recent, authentic photos whenever possible

Contact Information and Representation

  • Landlords and property managers must provide valid contact details

  • If a listing is posted by an agent or third party, their role must be clearly disclosed

Rental Conditions

If applicable, listings must clearly state:

  • Pet policies

  • Smoking restrictions

  • Additional fees or requirements


5. Legal and Policy Compliance

All users are responsible for ensuring their listings comply with:

Listings that violate applicable laws or Kijiji policies may be removed.


6. Enforcement

Kijiji may take action to protect users and maintain marketplace integrity, including:

  • Removing non-compliant listings

  • Suspending or restricting accounts

  • Preventing repeated violations

Enforcement actions are applied to ensure fairness, safety, and compliance across the platform.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I specify roommate preferences in my listing?

Yes, but only if they are related to lifestyle or housing compatibility. You cannot include preferences that exclude protected groups.

Are security deposits allowed in all provinces?

No. Security deposit rules vary by province. Some provinces prohibit them entirely, while others limit the amount that can be collected.

Can I ask for a key deposit?

Key deposits are only allowed in certain provinces. Where permitted, they must be clearly disclosed in the listing.

What happens if my listing violates these rules?

Listings that do not comply may be removed, and repeated violations may result in account restrictions.


Post Listings Responsibly

Accurate, transparent, and inclusive listings help create a fair rental marketplace for everyone. Always ensure your rental ad follows local laws and Kijiji housing policies before posting. Kijiji Equality in Housing policy and all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws.

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