"If you have proof they owe, $25 to file a claim in magistrates court, you'll get paid!"

Not if it's over a certain amount (around $1000 or so), after that you have to file in Supreme Court and the lawyers fees and hassle won't make it worth your while. Get a deposit and never let it go late for very long. Recovery and eviction can be a long process and as the arrears add up you get closer to having to go to Supreme Court. I managed 12 apartments and I've been in front of the magistrate several times and the system is in the renters favour unless you act quickly.