This is rental law.If you want to move early you must pay one month rent.In here you should give 3 month notice if you want to move.So i think they ask for one month rent is very resonable.If the landlord want to take this the credit bureau you are in trouble otherwise you are fine.I think you should talk to them find result good for both of you may be half month rent or you help them find a tent.In Canada if you have bad credit you are finished.Please do not take chance.AS myself a landord if someone has the difficlties situation
like you I usually say ok,but if they just leave with a word for sure I report to credit bureau.Look at this society trust is people do business number one consider.AS other people said:you dot have to give your SIN number this ture.But as right now I think all landord will ask for it.However you can refuse but not one will rent to you.