Emergency Declaration Impacts on Quebec Tenants

Emergency declarations can change how landlords and tenants in Quebec handle repairs, access, rent payments and eviction processes. If a provincial emergency is declared, you may see temporary rules for urgent repairs, essential services and movement that affect daily living in your rental. This article explains what tenants need to know about habitability, notice requirements, timelines for urgent repairs, and when landlords can or cannot seek eviction. It also outlines practical steps to document problems, request emergency repairs, and file a complaint with the provincial rental tribunal^[1] and where to find applicable legislation^[2].

What changes during an emergency declaration in Quebec?

During a declared emergency the government can issue temporary measures that affect how quickly repairs are done, which services are prioritized, and how hearings or eviction proceedings are scheduled. Tenants still have rights under the Civil Code of Quebec and can raise urgent habitability or safety concerns; in many cases the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) continues to hear urgent applications and can order landlords to act^[1][2]. For help with emergency repairs see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for practical steps to follow and documentation to keep.

Repairs and essential services

If essential services (heat, hot water, electricity, plumbing) are affected during an emergency, follow these steps to protect your rights and health.

• Send a written repair request to your landlord describing the urgent issue and request a prompt response.
• Document the problem with dated photos, videos and a short log of events and communications.
• If the landlord does not act, prepare to file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement using the forms on its website.
• Keep records of any out-of-pocket expenses (temporary repairs, alternate accommodation) to request reimbursement if ordered by the Tribunal.

Evictions, notices and hearings

Emergency rules may delay certain court or tribunal processes, but they do not automatically remove a landlord’s obligations to maintain habitability. Landlords still generally must follow notice requirements and serve proper documents before seeking eviction; tenants can respond and request urgent hearings if the situation threatens safety. If you need to apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement, use the official application forms and follow the filing instructions on the TAL site^[1][3]. For questions about health risks or indoor hazards, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

FAQ

Can my landlord delay urgent repairs during a provincial emergency?

Not usually. Landlords remain responsible for urgent repairs that affect habitability; if a landlord refuses to act you can document the issue and apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for an order.

Will eviction hearings stop during an emergency?

Some schedules may change or be delayed, but eviction processes do not automatically end. You should seek information from the Tribunal and respond to any notices promptly.

What evidence helps my case for emergency repairs?

Photos, dated messages to your landlord, receipts for temporary fixes or alternative housing, and witness statements all help to prove urgency to the Tribunal.

Where can I find official forms to file with the Tribunal?

Official application and filing forms are available on the Tribunal administratif du logement website and should be used when submitting complaints or requests for urgent measures.

How-To

1. Document the issue immediately: take dated photos or video and write a short log within 48 hours.
2. Send a clear written repair request to your landlord describing the problem and asking for urgent action; keep a copy.
3. If there is no timely response, download and complete the appropriate application form for the Tribunal administratif du logement and file it online or by mail.
4. Contact tenant advice services or legal aid if you need help completing forms or preparing evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) for filings, hearings and official guidance on tenancy disputes.
• Read the Civil Code of Quebec for legal rules about leases and tenant-landlord obligations.

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1. [1] Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)
2. [2] Civil Code of Quebec on LegisQuebec
3. [3] TAL forms and publications