Renting with roommates in Quebec means sharing furniture, appliances and common areas, so documenting shared property and an inventory protects every tenant’s rights. A clear inventory and dated photos reduce disputes over deposits, wear and tear, and responsibilities for repairs. This guide explains simple steps tenants can use to record belongings, agree on shared items, and keep evidence landlords or tribunals will accept. It also covers how to handle changes during a tenancy, what to do when someone moves out, and practical tips for preserving receipts and messages. If you share a rental, these measures make it easier to resolve disagreements and support your case if you need to file official forms or seek help from provincial resources.
Why document shared property and inventory?
When multiple tenants use the same unit, questions about who owns what and who must pay for damage are common. A dated inventory with photos, receipts and signed notes is strong evidence if there is a dispute about a security deposit or responsibility for repairs. If you need a formal decision, the Tribunal administratif du logement handles residential tenancy disputes in Quebec [1].
What to include in a shared inventory
- Dated photos and short videos of shared spaces and items.
- Record shared furniture and appliances with notes about who is responsible for each.
- Receipts, purchase dates and warranty information for costly items.
- Sign and date a simple condition form that notes existing damage.
- List keys, locks and any agreed privacy or access arrangements.
How to create and maintain an inventory
- Do an initial inventory within 48 hours of moving in and date the document.
- Take date-stamped photos and short videos of each shared room and item.
- Note serial numbers, model names and visible damage for appliances and electronics.
- Create a simple written or digital inventory form and have all roommates sign it.
- Keep receipts, repair records and message logs in a shared folder so everyone can access them.
- Update the list when someone moves out and agree on transfer, replacement or compensation.
Use clear file names and a dated folder for photos and receipts. If you plan to rely on official paperwork, look for the Tribunal's application forms and guidance before filing a claim [2]. When arguing your case, references to Quebec law and the Civil Code of Quebec may be relevant to tenancy duties and obligations [3].
FAQ
- Who is responsible for shared items if something is damaged?
- Responsibility depends on the written agreement between roommates and the condition documented at move-in; shared items are typically a joint responsibility unless you agreed otherwise in writing.
- How can I prove I owned or contributed to a shared item?
- Keep purchase receipts, dated photos, serial numbers and written notes signed by roommates; these records are strong evidence for deposit disputes or tribunal hearings.
- What form do I use to file a dispute in Quebec?
- Tenants use the Tribunal administratif du logement's application process and forms to request a hearing; check the Tribunal's official forms page for the correct application and instructions.
How-To
- Schedule an initial walk-through with all roommates within 48 hours of moving in.
- Photograph and video each shared area and item, labeling files with dates and brief descriptions.
- Fill out a short inventory form listing items, condition, serial numbers and who is responsible.
- Have every roommate sign and date the inventory to confirm agreement.
- Store copies in a shared cloud folder and keep original receipts and repair records.
- When someone moves out, update the inventory, note changes and agree on compensation or replacements.
