If you’re a tenant in Quebec facing a rent increase, it’s important to know your legal rights—and the possible consequences—if you don’t pay the new rent amount. This article breaks down what happens if you refuse or cannot pay a higher rent, outlines the steps a landlord might take, and explains how to protect your tenancy under Quebec law.

The Legal Context: Rent Increases in Quebec

Quebec’s rental system is governed by the Act Respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal (Chapter L-6.2)^[1]. Landlords must notify tenants of any proposed rent increase in writing within specific timelines. Tenants have the right to accept the new rent, refuse it, or end their lease.

• Deadline: For a fixed-term lease, the landlord must give notice between 3 and 6 months before the lease ends.
• Tenant Actions: You can accept, refuse, or do nothing in response to the rent increase.

If You Do Not Respond to a Rent Increase

If you don’t reply to your landlord’s written notice within one month, you are deemed to have accepted the new rent, and your lease is renewed at that amount.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay the Increased Rent?

Once the rent increase takes effect (usually at lease renewal), you are legally required to pay the new amount if you accepted it, or if you did not respond in time. Failing to pay the new rent puts you in arrears, which may trigger the eviction process.

• Your landlord can send you a formal notice asking you to pay the outstanding rent.
• If you don’t pay, the landlord can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) (Administrative Housing Tribunal) for an order ending your lease and evicting you.

The TAL is the official tribunal dealing with most Quebec rental disputes, including non-payment of rent.

Eviction for Non-Payment: Timeline and Process

Quebec landlords can start eviction proceedings as soon as a tenant owes more than three weeks’ rent, or if the tenant is habitually late with rent payments. Here’s a summary of what typically happens:

• Landlord applies to TAL for eviction due to non-payment.
• TAL serves you with an official Application for Rent Recovery and Termination of Lease (Form TAL-015A).
• You may be summoned to a hearing. If you pay all outstanding rent (including costs and interest before the hearing), your lease may not be terminated.
• If the TAL orders your eviction, you may be required to leave by a set date. If not, a bailiff can forcibly remove you.

For more about paying rent and your obligations, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Key Actions to Take if You Can’t Pay the New Rent

• Contact your landlord as soon as possible to discuss payment options or a repayment plan.
• Seek advice from tenant advocacy groups or legal aid.
• Consider applying for rental subsidies or social housing if you qualify.

How to Refuse a Rent Increase (Official Form and Example)

Tenants can refuse a rent increase using a written notice or the TAL’s sample letter. While there isn’t a mandatory numbered form for this, the TAL provides sample refusal letters to send your landlord. You must respond within one month of receiving the landlord’s notice.

• Form Name: Sample Letter – Refusal of Rent Increase (no form number)
• When to Use: After receiving a rent increase notice—reply in writing within 30 days to refuse it.
• Where to Find: Official TAL Sample Refusal Letter

If you refuse, your landlord has 1 month to apply to the TAL to have the new rent amount set by the tribunal.

The Law and Your Rights

Your rights as a Quebec tenant are protected by both the Act Respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal and the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec. Make sure you understand your responsibilities before making any decisions about rent payments.

Other Considerations: Impact on Subsidized or Affordable Housing

If you receive rental assistance or live in subsidized housing, non-payment of rent or refusal to follow official increase procedures may also affect your eligibility for subsidies. Always communicate with your housing provider if you’re experiencing difficulty.

For a broader look at tenant and landlord duties in Quebec, check Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Need to find an affordable new rental? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and connect with landlords directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if I disagree with the rent increase but missed the 30-day response window?
   If you don’t respond within 30 days, you’re considered to have accepted the new rent, and your lease continues at the higher amount.
2. Can I be evicted immediately for not paying the increased rent?
   No, your landlord must follow formal eviction processes through the Tribunal administratif du logement. You will receive notice and have a chance to contest or pay before losing your home.
3. Can the landlord charge late fees or interest for unpaid rent?
   Yes, landlords can claim legal interest on overdue rent, but additional fees must comply with Quebec law and be ordered by the tribunal.
4. Where can I get help if I can’t afford to pay rent?
   Tenant support groups, legal aid, and the TAL can offer advice. Consider also contacting your local housing office for subsidy or emergency assistance.
5. What if I’m in subsidized housing and fall behind on new rent payments?
   Contact your housing authority immediately to discuss options and avoid risking your subsidy or tenancy.

Key Takeaways

• If you don’t pay an increased rent that’s in effect, your landlord can initiate eviction proceedings with the TAL.
• Always respond to rent increase notices in writing and within deadlines.
• Seek help early if you anticipate problems paying rent; support and subsidies may be available.

Understanding these steps can help you avoid unintended lease renewal terms or eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Éducaloi – Rent Increases, clear legal guides for tenants
• Local legal aid offices and tenant advocacy organizations (search by city or region)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec – Detailed overview of Quebec-specific laws and procedures

---

1. Act Respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal, CQLR c L-6.2
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official Site
3. Éducaloi – Understanding Quebec Rent Increases
4. TAL: Sample Letter – Refusal of Rent Increase

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