If you’ve ever gone apartment hunting, you know the challenge: every listing claims to be “well-maintained,” “professionally managed,” or offer “quality living.” But how do you actually know which buildings live up to those claims?
That’s where the Certified Rental Building™ (CRB) Program comes in. Designed to take the guesswork out of apartment hunting, CRB certification is a national mark of quality that helps renters confidently choose professionally managed, well-maintained rental housing in Canada.
And now, it’s easier than ever to find certified buildings — right here on Rentfaster.
What Is the CRB Program?
Launched in 2008 by the Federation of Rental-housing Providers of Ontario (FRPO), the CRB Program is North America’s first and only national certification program for multi-residential rental buildings. It was created to establish consistent, high standards for property management and resident service.
Think of it as a trusted benchmark for apartment buildings. If a property is CRB-certified, it has met rigorous requirements for operations, maintenance, resident experience, and staff training — verified by an independent third-party audit.
How Do Buildings Get Certified?
CRB certification is not automatic — it must be earned. To become certified, property owners and managers must comply with 55 Best Practice Standards, which fall under six key categories:
- Resident Management: Professional leasing processes, clear communication, and consistent resident service.
- State of Condition: Buildings must be clean, safe, and well maintained — inside and out.
- Environmental Practices: Properties follow environmental best practices, such as energy efficiency, waste diversion, and water conservation.
- Operations & Risk Management: Defined procedures for maintenance, complaints, emergencies, and regulatory compliance.
- Human Resources: On-site staff are trained, supported, and aligned with CRB standards.
- Financial Responsibility: Owners must demonstrate responsible financial oversight, documentation, and insurance coverage.
Each building is audited by an independent, CRB-approved auditor to confirm compliance, and on-site staff complete CRB training to ensure consistent implementation of program standards.
What Does It Mean for Renters?
The CRB Program’s slogan says it all: “Rent with Confidence™.”
Choosing a CRB-certified apartment means choosing a property that is:
- Professionally managed
- Maintained to high standards year-round
- Environmentally responsible
- Staffed by trained professionals
- Committed to a positive and consistent resident experience
Whether you’ve dealt with unresolved maintenance issues, unclear communication, or inconsistent service in the past — CRB certification helps ensure a better rental experience from the start.
“Living Green Together”: A Bonus for the Planet
Alongside CRB certification, participating properties may also earn the Living Green Together™ designation. This additional recognition highlights properties that go above and beyond to reduce their environmental impact.
That means more than just recycling bins — it can include LED lighting, low-flow fixtures, resident education programs, and energy-efficient equipment. If sustainability matters to you, this is one more reason to look for the CRB badge when renting.
Rentfaster Now Highlights CRB-Certified Buildings
Rentfaster is now rolling out CRB certification badges on listings across Canada. You can even filter your search results to show only certified properties — making it faster and easier to find apartments that meet verified standards for quality and professionalism.
No need to dig through property websites or call leasing offices to confirm — just look for the CRB symbol and rent with confidence.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
With high competition in rental markets and rising expectations from tenants, renters are increasingly seeking clarity and consistency in the housing experience. The CRB Program delivers just that — a national benchmark of quality, backed by training, audits, and continuous improvement.
As more rental providers pursue certification and more renters seek out CRB properties, the program is helping raise the bar for the entire rental housing industry.
How Landlords and Property Managers Can Become CRB Certified
The CRB Program offers more than just a seal — it provides real operational value for property owners and managers.
Why Join?
Certified properties benefit from:
- Improved Operational Efficiency: Reduced utility and maintenance costs through preventative practices and environmental best standards.
- Risk Mitigation & Asset Protection: Third-party audits and standardized procedures help reduce liability, ensure compliance, and support proactive building management.
- Enhanced Resident Experience: Higher service standards promote tenant satisfaction, reputation, and retention.
- Competitive Differentiation: Certification distinguishes your property in the marketplace as a trusted, well-managed rental.
- Investor & Stakeholder Confidence: Alignment with ESG frameworks, including GRESB, offers transparency and third-party validation of operational excellence.
What’s the Process?
Certification involves three core steps:
- Application: Connect with the CRB Program team to begin the process.
- Training & Compliance: Complete CRB training for your team and implement the 55 Best Practice Standards across operations.
- Independent Audit: A third-party audit confirms that your property meets the certification requirements.
Once certified, your property joins a growing national network committed to quality, professionalism, and sustainability.
To learn more or begin the certification process, visit the official CRB Program website.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to live is a major decision — and it shouldn’t come with uncertainty. CRB-certified buildings offer a reliable, transparent standard of quality that renters and landlords alike can trust.
Whether you’re searching for your next apartment or working to enhance the performance of your rental portfolio, CRB certification is a smart step toward a better rental experience.
