As a tenant in Quebec, privacy and security are important factors for feeling safe in your rental home. One of the most common questions tenants have is whether they can legally change the locks on their rental unit, and under what circumstances. Understanding the rules around lock changes, as well as the process and your rights, can help you avoid disputes and protect your tenancy.

Quebec Law on Changing Locks: What Tenants Must Know

In Quebec, residential tenancies are governed by the Quebec Civil Code. Both tenants and landlords have specific obligations and rights relating to rental unit security, including changing locks.

• Tenants cannot change the locks without the landlord's consent. The law makes it clear that the landlord must always have access to the unit in case of emergencies or necessary repairs.
• If your landlord changes the locks, they must provide you with a new key immediately and at no cost to you.
• Changing locks without permission could result in legal consequences, including possible eviction or orders to restore access.

According to Articles 1856 and 1934 of the Quebec Civil Code, landlords are responsible for ensuring your right to “peaceful enjoyment” and must maintain the security features already present at the start of your lease¹.

What to Do If You Need to Change the Locks

Sometimes you might feel a need to change your locks, for example, after a break-in or if keys are lost or stolen. In such cases:

• Ask your landlord for written permission to change the locks.
• Clearly state the reason for your request (such as personal safety or theft).
• Offer to provide the landlord with a copy of the new key immediately after the lock change.

If you and your landlord can't agree, you may apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), formerly called the Régie du logement, which handles all housing disputes in Quebec².

When Can Your Landlord Change the Locks?

Your landlord is allowed to change the locks in your unit only in certain circumstances, such as:

• Security upgrades for the building
• After previous tenants move out before handing over the unit to a new tenant
• Emergencies, such as after a break-in or if keys are lost

Your landlord must always provide you with new keys right away at no extra cost. Withholding the keys is not allowed and may be contested at the TAL.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

If a dispute over lock changes arises and can't be resolved, you may apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement:

• Application to the Tribunal (Form TAL-001):
  Use this form to ask the TAL to make a decision about lock changes, landlord access, or security issues. File it online or at a TAL office. For example, use this if your landlord refuses reasonable permission to change the locks for urgent safety.
  Download the TAL-001 form here.

Common Tenant Responsibilities Regarding Locks

Tenants in Quebec have the duty to use the property with care and not alter it—this includes locks—without permission. Tenants may be responsible for the cost of replacing lost keys unless agreed otherwise. For a wider look at your rights and duties, see the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If, after moving in, you notice any broken locks or concerns about door security, raise these with your landlord promptly for repair or replacement.

What Happens If You Change the Locks Without Consent?

Changing the locks without agreement can result in the landlord making an application to the TAL to compel you to provide a key or restore the original lock. Repeated breaches may even lead to eviction, depending on the circumstances and evidence presented to the tribunal.

Learn more about your broader provincial rights by visiting Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

For help finding your next apartment or house within Quebec or anywhere else in Canada, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I change my apartment locks if I lose my keys?
   If you lose your keys, contact your landlord immediately. Do not change the locks yourself. Request a replacement key or ask the landlord to approve a lock change. Always provide the landlord with a copy of any new key.
2. What can I do if my landlord refuses to change a broken or unsafe lock?
   If a lock is broken or puts your safety at risk, you can send a written request for repairs. If your landlord refuses, you may file an application to the Tribunal administratif du logement using Form TAL-001.
3. Does my landlord have to give me a key if they change the locks?
   Yes, your landlord must give you a new key immediately and free of charge if they change the locks. Failing to do so is against the law in Quebec.
4. Can my landlord enter my unit to change the locks without notice?
   Generally, landlords need to provide proper notice before entering your unit except in emergencies. Changing locks without notice or permission may be a violation of your rights unless there's an urgent reason.
5. What should I do if I’m worried about unauthorized access (e.g., after a roommate moves out)?
   Discuss your concerns with your landlord and request a lock change or key re-collection. If there is a risk to your safety, outline it in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Key Takeaways

• Always seek your landlord's consent before changing locks in Quebec.
• Landlords must provide you with a new key if they change the locks.
• For unresolved disputes, the Tribunal administratif du logement can help protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official housing tribunal for tenancy disputes in Quebec
• Éducaloi – Housing: Legal education and plain-language resources for tenants
• RCLALQ: Quebec tenants' rights organization offering advocacy and information

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1. See Articles 1856, 1934, and 1935 of the Civil Code of Quebec (chapter CCQ-1991)
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

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