Many renters in Quebec worry that a past criminal record or a history of mental illness will stop them from securing a rental. Landlords can assess risk and protect safety, but they must respect anti-discrimination rules and tenancy duties. This guide explains how tenant screening typically works in Quebec, which records and behaviours landlords may reasonably consider, and what tenants can do if they believe they were unfairly rejected. It also describes practical steps to document your situation, request accommodations, and, if needed, apply to the Tribunal to challenge unlawful refusals. The tone is plain and practical so renters can make informed choices and prepare the evidence needed to assert their rights.
How screening usually works in Quebec
Landlords commonly check references, credit, and criminal records to assess safety and reliability. In Quebec these checks must relate to the landlord's legitimate need to protect property or other tenants; blanket bans that exclude a whole group may raise human-rights concerns. If a landlord says they rejected an applicant because of criminal history or mental illness, ask which behaviours or records specifically influenced the decision and whether they considered accommodation or a risk-based assessment.
When criminal records or health history may be relevant
Not every criminal record is equally relevant. Recent convictions for violence or property offences that indicate a safety risk may be more likely to be considered reasonable. Minor or very old convictions often carry less weight. Similarly, a disclosed mental-health history alone is not a lawful reason to refuse an applicant; what matters is whether there is a demonstrable risk to safety or the rental agreement.
What tenants can do after a rejection
If you think a refusal was unfair, start by documenting the process:
- Collect any written rejection, emails, or text messages that mention reasons for the refusal.
- Keep records of applications, references, and communications with the landlord or agent.
- Ask the landlord in writing to explain the specific reasons and whether any accommodations were considered.
When to seek help from the Tribunal
If informal resolution fails, tenants in Quebec can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement to contest unlawful refusals or discriminatory practices. The Tribunal handles disputes about leases, tenant rights and landlord obligations, and may order remedies when rights are breached.[1] You should also review the Civil Code provisions and provincial guidance on renting to understand obligations and remedies.[2]
Official forms and how to use them
- Application to the Tribunal (demande) — available on the Tribunal site: use this to start a hearing about a refusal or other tenancy dispute; example: you file an application when you were denied a lease because of a disability and the landlord refused to consider accommodation. Tribunal forms and guidance.
- Supporting documents (no specific number) — include copies of the rejection, communications, references, and any medical or support letters when relevant; attach these when you submit the application to show the Tribunal the facts behind your claim.
Practical steps to strengthen your case
- Gather evidence: dated messages, application copies, reference contacts and any incident reports.
- Ask for accommodation in writing if the refusal relates to disability; explain what reasonable accommodations would address the landlord's concerns.
- Keep timelines: note when you applied, when you were told you were rejected, and any deadlines for responding.
Alternatives while you resolve a dispute
While you prepare any application or discussion, consider applying for other units and explaining your situation proactively where appropriate. You can also ask trusted references to highlight your reliability or offer to sign a behaviour-related clause when reasonable. For expanded rental search options, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to identify listings and keep your housing options open.
For more on general tenant problems and practical solutions, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them and for details about rights in this province consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse me because of a criminal record?
- It depends on relevance and timing. Landlords may consider criminal history if it reasonably affects safety or the rental, but blanket refusal without assessing risk or accommodation may be unlawful.
- Is mental illness a protected ground in Quebec?
- Yes. Mental disability is protected; landlords must not refuse solely for health history and should consider reasonable accommodation before refusing.
- How do I challenge a discriminatory refusal?
- Document the rejection, request a written explanation, collect supporting evidence, and consider applying to the Tribunal administratif du logement to contest the decision.
How-To
- Collect evidence: save emails, texts, application receipts and notes about conversations with the landlord.
- Request a written explanation of the refusal and ask whether accommodation was considered.
- Seek advice from a tenant clinic, legal aid or community group if you are unsure whether discrimination occurred.
- Complete and submit the Tribunal application form with supporting documents to start a formal review.[1]
- Prepare for the hearing: organize documents, list witnesses and create a clear timeline of events.
Help and Support / Resources
- Tribunal administratif du logement - official website and forms
- Civil Code of Quebec - legislation relevant to leases
- Quebec government - Renting: rights and responsibilities
