Toronto’s short-term rental rules generally centre on a host’s principal residence, so many local hosts rent out their own home for a few weeks while they travel, rather than running a dedicated investment unit. That comes with its own challenges: it’s your real home, full of your belongings, and you won’t be there to fix problems.
Before Your Trip: Preparing the Home
- Remove or lock away valuables, personal documents, and sentimental items
- Clear closet and drawer space so guests have room for their things
- Set up a clear, simple guest guide covering WiFi, appliances, garbage/recycling, and building or neighbourhood rules
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, locks, and key access
Why “Lived-In” Homes Need Extra Cleaning Attention
A home that’s been lived in tends to have more accumulated dust, more personal clutter, and more wear in cabinets and appliances than a purpose-furnished rental. A thorough deep clean before your first guest sets a strong baseline, and consistent turnover cleaning after that protects it.
Managing It While You’re Away
- Have a local contact or management service for guest issues, since you may be in a different time zone
- Arrange turnover cleaning timed to each checkout and check-in
- Keep a record of the home’s condition with photos before and after each stay
Coming Home
Schedule a final clean for the day before you return so you walk back into a fresh, reset home rather than your guests’ leftovers.
A Note on Rules
Short-term rental rules vary by municipality across the GTA and can change, so confirm registration and eligibility with your city before listing. This is general information, not legal advice.
My Canada Cleaning offers turnover cleaning and hands-off hosting support for Toronto homeowners renting out their homes while they travel.