Looking for shared housing or a rental in Quebec and wondering if having children could affect your application? Many tenants—especially parents—have questions about whether landlords in Quebec can legally reject a tenant simply because they have children. Knowing your rights can help you find safe, fair housing for your family, and protect against unfair discrimination in the rental process.
Your Right to Housing: What the Law Says in Quebec
Under Quebec law, discrimination in housing based on the presence of children is prohibited. The Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms specifically protects family status when it comes to renting or leasing a home[1]. This means a landlord cannot refuse to rent to a family or individual just because they have one or more children.
Key Points:
- Quebec's human rights law covers all rental units—including shared apartments, houses, and rooms in private dwellings.
- Refusing rental based on children's presence is considered discriminatory under the law.
- There are very few exceptions, typically only for owner-occupied dwellings with fewer than three rental rooms.
Discrimination in the Application Process
When applying for a rental—whether it’s an apartment, shared house, or sublet—a landlord cannot ask questions or make decisions based on the presence or absence of children. This includes:
- Refusing to rent to families with children
- Adding extra conditions or fees for tenants with children
- Advertising “adults only” or “no children” (with rare exceptions noted above)
Relevant Legislation and Tribunal
Tenant rights and rental disputes—including discrimination—are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). The TAL enforces the Act Respecting the Régie du logement (Loi sur la Régie du logement), which covers residential leases, obligations, and eviction processes in Quebec[2].
What To Do If You Believe You Were Refused Because of Children
If you suspect a landlord rejected your application because you have children, you have specific legal options:
- File a complaint with the CDPDJ: This is Quebec's official human rights commission, which investigates discrimination cases. Submit a complaint form online.
- Gather Evidence: Collect texts, emails, and any written or verbal statements. Screenshots of discriminatory ads can be useful.
- Application to the TAL: In some cases, you may also seek recourse at the TAL if your lease rights have been violated.
Common Forms You May Need
- CDPDJ Complaint Form: Used to make discrimination complaints. Access the CDPDJ complaint form here. Example: A parent is told by a landlord that "children are too noisy," and is refused. Submitting this form launches an investigation.
- TAL Application – “Demande introductive d’instance” (Form TAL-001): Used to start legal proceedings at TAL. Find the TAL form here. Example: If your lease is ended or denied due to having children, this form begins the process to challenge the landlord's actions.
Other Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
It’s important to understand other obligations in a rental relationship, which cover things like maintenance and mutual respect. For more information, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Quebec’s rental system is designed to protect tenants against family status discrimination, but you may still experience subtle or overt bias. By knowing your rights and the steps to take, you can protect yourself and your family while looking for shared accommodation or independent rentals.
Roommates and Shared Housing: Special Considerations
If you're seeking shared housing as a family or with children, the same human rights protections apply. All members of a household—including children—are protected from discrimination. Be mindful that in the case of small, owner-occupied residences with fewer than three rooms rented, owners may have broader rights to choose their tenants; outside of these exceptions, the law is on your side.
For a broad overview of your rights as a renter in Quebec, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.
You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for more options and support in your housing search.
FAQ: Tenant Rights in Quebec re: Children
- Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
No. Refusal based solely on having children is illegal in Quebec under the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. - What should I do if I see a "no children" note on a rental ad?
Take a screenshot and report the ad to the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) using their online form. - Are there any exceptions where landlords can refuse families?
Yes, only in cases where the landlord personally occupies the home and rents fewer than three rooms. Otherwise, discrimination is not legal. - Where can I get help resolving a discrimination dispute?
Contact CDPDJ for complaints or the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) for rental disagreements. - Can roommates decide not to live with families with children?
While personal preference is allowed in informal roommate situations, if you are applying through a landlord, the same protections apply.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords in Quebec cannot refuse tenants solely because they have children, except in rare owner-occupied cases.
- Discrimination should be reported to the province's human rights commission (CDPDJ).
- Keep records of all communications and contact the appropriate tribunal if you need formal recourse.
Understanding your rights as a tenant empowers you in any housing search—especially in shared housing or when applying with your family.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Information on tenant rights and rental disputes
- Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ): File discrimination complaints or learn more about your rights
- Residential Tenancies Help Line: 1-800-683-2245
- Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms (official text)
- Act Respecting the Régie du logement (official text)
