Renting in Quebec: Tenant Rights and Rent Increase Guide
In Quebec, disputes between tenants and landlords are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). This tribunal interprets and applies relevant laws, and provides information, mediation, and adjudication services.
Rent Increase Rules
There is no fixed rent increase percentage. When calculating rent adjustments, the TAL considers:
- Building income
- Municipal and school taxes
- Insurance bills
- Energy costs
- Maintenance and service costs
- Return on capital expenditures (if any)
- Indexation of net building income
The TAL provides a Calculation Tool – fixing of rent to precisely calculate rent variations for a specific dwelling.
If a tenant refuses a rent increase, the landlord cannot force the tenant to move. The landlord must file an Application to modify the lease with the TAL. However, this does not apply to buildings constructed or transformed five years ago or less.
Lease Renewal
At the end of a lease, tenants have the right to renew. If the landlord wants to increase rent or change other conditions, they must give notice as required by law. The TAL provides various models of notices for landlords and tenants.
If a tenant refuses the rent increase, the landlord may apply to the TAL to modify the lease. The TAL will determine the new rent based on the factors above.
Repossession and Eviction
Landlords may repossess a dwelling (e.g., for themselves or family) or evict a tenant (e.g., for subdivision, substantial enlargement, or change of destination) under certain conditions. The TAL provides information and a dedicated information service; citizens can request a call back from an information clerk within two business days.
Common Tenant Questions
- Joint tenant leaves: If a joint tenant moves out, the remaining tenant is still responsible for the full rent. If only part is paid, the landlord can request lease cancellation.
- Inability to move in: If a tenant cannot take possession on the agreed date, they may claim damages (e.g., storage, moving costs, lodging) and possibly a refund of rent paid (under article 1699 C.C.Q.). If serious harm results, the lease may be broken (article 1863 C.C.Q.). The landlord is obliged to deliver the dwelling in good condition (article 1854 C.C.Q.), unless force majeure (e.g., 1998 ice storm).
- Hearing absence: If a tenant cannot attend a hearing, they can send a mandatary to request postponement or write to the TAL, stating reasons.
Applications and Procedures
- Filing an application: Can be done online via the TAL website or at a TAL office (by appointment).
- Proof of notification: Must be filed within 45 days of filing the application. As of June 12, 2026, failure to file does not invalidate the application, but the TAL may refuse to schedule a hearing.
- Abusive conduct: The TAL may impose procedural restrictions on parties who abuse pleadings or engage in vexatious conduct.
Joint Application for Private Seniors' Residences
Two or more lessees in the same private seniors' residence can file a joint application for rent reduction or nullity of clauses. The TAL will hold a management conference and may notify other lessees. Community organizations may assist.
Contact TAL
- Phone: Montréal, Laval, Longueuil: 514 873-2245; Elsewhere: 1 800 683-2245
- Office hours: By appointment only; book online or by phone.
- Offices: Located in several cities, including Montréal, Québec City, Gatineau, etc.
0 found this useful
Send this page