10 Key Facts for Quebec Roommates & Shared Housing

Sharing a rental with roommates can make housing in Quebec more affordable, but it also brings unique legal and practical issues. Whether you’re moving in with friends or subletting a room, knowing your rights and responsibilities can help prevent misunderstandings and keep your living situation stress-free. Here are 10 must-know facts for tenants interested in roommates and shared housing in Quebec.

Understanding Roommate vs. Co-Tenant Arrangements in Quebec

It's important to know that there is a legal distinction between roommates and co-tenants in Quebec. A co-tenant is someone who has signed the lease and shares equal rights and responsibilities for the rental property. A roommate may be subletting a room or living in the apartment without being officially named on the lease.

• If you want full legal protection and an official say in the lease, ensure your name is on the lease as a co-tenant.
• If you move in as a roommate without leaseholder status, your legal rights are limited.

Quebec Rental Legislation and Tribunal

Roommate situations are governed by the Civil Code of Québec (C.c.Q.), specifically articles involving residential leases and obligations between tenants.¹

Disputes regarding roommates, co-tenants, and shared housing are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) (formerly the Régie du logement).

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Shared Tenant

• All co-tenants listed on the lease are equally responsible for paying rent and maintaining the unit.
• If one co-tenant fails to pay, others can be held liable for their portion.
• Roommates not named on the lease are not directly accountable to the landlord but may be bound by private agreements with co-tenants.

Subletting and Adding a Roommate

In Quebec, you must obtain landlord permission before subletting your unit or adding a new roommate who is not on the lease. Use a formal written notice.

The official form for subletting is Notice of Sublet (TAL Official Form). This form should be sent to the landlord and include details about the new occupant, dates, and conditions. Access the Notice of Sublet form here.²

Rental Deposits: Quebec Rules

Unlike some other provinces, in Quebec landlords are not allowed to request a security or damage deposit from tenants or roommates. Only first month’s rent can be required in advance. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Dividing Rent and Bills

Bill and rent splitting should be clearly outlined in a roommate or co-tenancy agreement. Each co-tenant is usually jointly responsible for the entire rent if all names appear on the lease, regardless of separate verbal arrangements.

Privacy and Access

• Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the rental unit, except in emergencies.
• Roommates should respect each other's privacy; lockable bedroom doors or agreed-upon boundaries protect comfort and property.

Health and Safety Obligations

Both tenants and landlords are responsible for maintaining a healthy and safe living environment. If you notice issues like pests, mould, or faulty heating, you have the right to request repairs. See Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for details.

Moving Out When You Have Roommates

If you plan to leave before the end of the lease, proper notice must be given. Co-tenants on the lease must all agree to end the tenancy, or you may need to formally assign your share via the Assignment of Lease (TAL Official Form). Find the Assignment of Lease form here.³

Resolving Disputes

If a dispute arises with a roommate, try mediation first. If that fails, co-tenants can take legal action at the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). For general tips, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Summary: What to Remember About Shared Housing

• Know your legal status—roommate or co-tenant—before moving in.
• Always use written agreements for clarity.
• Follow official procedures for subletting or ending your part of a lease.
• If conflicts arise, seek mediation or, if needed, help from the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

For an overview of regional tenant rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec. To find a new place or explore rental homes, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roommates and Shared Rentals in Quebec

1. Can a landlord refuse to add my roommate to the lease? Landlords can refuse additions if they have valid reasons (e.g., occupancy limits), but they cannot be arbitrary or discriminatory. If refused, the current tenants remain responsible.
2. Are all roommates legally responsible for the lease? Only those whose names appear on the lease (co-tenants) are legally accountable to the landlord for rent and damages. Informal roommates are subject to private agreements.
3. What if my roommate stops paying their portion of rent? If you're a co-tenant, you could be held responsible for the full rent by the landlord. Consider a clear roommate agreement and communicate promptly if issues arise.
4. How much notice do I need to give if I want to move out? The required notice depends on your lease. If you are a co-tenant, you must give written notice according to Quebec's rules and possibly arrange for a lease assignment. If you’re a subtenant, your notice rules may differ.
5. Is it legal to request a damage deposit from my roommate? In Quebec, landlords cannot request a damage deposit. Roommates should not collect deposits on the landlord's behalf, but may privately agree to collect shares for damages between themselves.

How To Handle Roommate Changes or Subletting in Quebec

1. How to add a new roommate to your lease? All current tenants need to make a written request to the landlord asking to officially add a roommate as a co-tenant. Wait for approval and get the lease updated.
2. How to sublet your room in Quebec? Fill out the "Notice of Sublet" form available from the TAL, provide all necessary details, and submit it to your landlord. The landlord may accept or refuse, but must justify refusal.
3. How to assign your lease if moving out? Complete the official TAL "Assignment of Lease" form and deliver it to your landlord, who has 15 days to respond. If they do not respond, the assignment is considered accepted.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the difference between co-tenants and roommates for full legal protection.
• Always use official forms and written agreements to protect your interests.
• Know that only co-tenants (not informal roommates) are liable to landlords for the lease.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Main resource for tenant-landlord disputes, forms, and legislation.
• Quebec Ministry of Justice – Legal information, tenant services, and mediation guides.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec – Overview of tenant law for Quebec renters.

---

1. Civil Code of Québec (C.c.Q.), Division of Leases
2. Notice of Sublet Form – Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)
3. Assignment of Lease Form – Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy