Discrimination & Accessibility for New Quebec Tenants

As a new tenant in Quebec, understanding your rights regarding discrimination and accessibility is crucial for a safe, welcoming rental experience. The provincial government sets strict rules to ensure fair treatment for all renters, including protections from discrimination and the right to accessible housing. This guide simplifies the legal landscape, highlighting what you need to know as you move into your new rental home in Quebec.

Your Rights Against Discrimination in Quebec Rentals

Quebec law strictly prohibits discrimination in housing based on specific personal traits. When renting or applying for a rental, you cannot be denied, evicted, or treated unfairly by your landlord due to:

• Race, colour, ethnic or national origin
• Sex, gender identity or expression
• Sexual orientation
• Age (except for senior housing)
• Marital or family status
• Religion or political beliefs
• Social condition (including income source)
• Physical or mental disability

These protections are set out in the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.^[1] Landlords must treat all applicants and tenants equally, both before and after signing the lease.

Examples of Discrimination

• Refusing to rent to someone because they receive social assistance
• Evicting a tenant because of pregnancy or family status
• Denying a service animal for a tenant with a disability

Accessibility and Modifications: Your Right to an Accessible Home

Tenants with disabilities have the right to request reasonable modifications to their rental unit to ensure accessibility. This includes installing ramps, grab bars, or other necessary features.

• You must ask your landlord in writing, explaining what changes are needed
• The landlord cannot refuse reasonable requests unless it causes undue hardship
• Tenants are usually responsible for paying for the modification—unless otherwise agreed
• Landlords cannot charge extra rent or fees based on your disability

For more about tenancy rights and how discrimination can affect day-to-day living, see the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec page.

Official Forms: Filing a Discrimination or Accessibility Complaint

If you experience discrimination or have accessibility concerns that are not resolved, you may submit a complaint to the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ), Quebec’s human rights body.

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
• When to use: If you have been refused a rental, harassed, or your request for accommodation was denied because of a protected characteristic.
• Where to find it: Download the housing discrimination complaint form (PDF)
• How it works (example): For instance, if a landlord refuses a ramp installation after you provide details of your mobility impairment, fill out the form, include supporting documentation, and submit it to the CDPDJ by mail or online.

Legal Protections: Quebec Tenancy Laws

In Quebec, tenant and landlord rights are governed by the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms^[1] and the Civil Code of Quebec, Book Five (Articles 1851-2000).^[2] Housing disputes—including discrimination and accessibility issues—are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) (Quebec’s Rental Board).

What to Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe your rights have been violated, follow these steps:

• Document what happened with details and dates
• Speak with your landlord to seek a resolution
• If unresolved, contact the CDPDJ or file an application at the TAL

Addressing issues early and keeping written records helps resolve disputes fairly and quickly.

What Happens After the Lease Is Signed?

Your protections from discrimination and for accessibility continue throughout your tenancy. For an overview of your rights and responsibilities after moving in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For all aspects of finding your next home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Discrimination and Accessibility for Quebec Tenants

1. What types of discrimination are banned in Quebec rental housing?
   Landlords cannot discriminate based on race, color, religion, disability, family status, and several other factors set by law.
2. Can my landlord refuse my request for accessibility modifications?
   Landlords must allow reasonable modifications unless they can show undue hardship, but you may need to cover costs unless otherwise agreed.
3. How do I file a complaint if I face discrimination?
   Document the incident, then submit the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form to the CDPDJ. You can also apply to the TAL for some disputes.
4. Am I protected throughout my tenancy, not just before moving in?
   Yes. Landlords must respect your equality and accessibility rights at every stage of your tenancy, not just before leasing.
5. Where can I find official help or mediation?
   The CDPDJ and the Tribunal administratif du logement offer guidance and dispute resolution services for tenants and landlords.

How To: Take Action on Discrimination or Accessibility Issues

1. How to document and report discrimination
   Record details of the incident, collect witness statements if available, and submit a complaint form to the CDPDJ with supporting evidence.
2. How to request an accessibility modification
   Write to your landlord describing the needed change and why it's required; provide medical documentation if needed.
3. How to apply to the TAL for a decision
   If the issue remains unresolved, complete the "Application to the Tribunal" form, attach your evidence, and submit it online or in person.

Key Takeaways

• Quebec law protects renters from discrimination and ensures accessibility in housing
• Tenants can request reasonable modifications and file complaints if denied fair treatment
• The CDPDJ and TAL are the main agencies to help resolve these issues

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Quebec's rental housing tribunal
• Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) – Human rights and accessibility complaints
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec – In-depth info on Quebec tenancy law

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1. Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms
2. Civil Code of Quebec, Book Five (Leasing)

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