Canadian privacy & access decisions

A student complained that a property management firm required his Social Insurance Number (SIN) to rent an apartment. The firm stated it needed the SIN for identity verification, credit checks, and collections. The OPC noted that while no legislation prevents organizations from asking for SINs for identification, organizations subject to PIPEDA must inform individuals that providing a SIN for identification is optional and not a condition of service. As a result of the complaint, the property manager revised the lease agreement to only require a driver's license for identification and stopped requesting SINs from potential renters. The student and the OPC considered the matter settled.

• Whether requiring a SIN for an apartment lease is permissible under PIPEDA
• Whether organizations must inform individuals that providing a SIN for identification is optional