Being evicted from your home in Quebec can feel overwhelming, but support, options, and a fresh start are within reach. This guide explains how tenants can secure new housing after eviction in Quebec, covering your rights, practical strategies, and what to expect as you search for your next rental home.

Understanding Your Rights and Situation After Eviction

After an eviction, it’s crucial to understand your rights as a tenant under Quebec law. The main legislation governing residential tenancies in Quebec is the Quebec Civil Code, Book V: Lease of Residential Dwellings.^[1] Quebec’s housing tribunal, the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), handles questions or disputes about eviction and tenant rights.

Even if you’ve been evicted, you retain rights regarding your personal property, final payments, and, in some cases, the right to appeal the eviction order. For an overview of tenant and landlord obligations, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

First Steps After an Eviction

Once an eviction order is final, you may have a short window (typically 10 days) to vacate the unit. You will receive an official document from the TAL, often called a "decision" or "judgment". If you need to request an extension for moving out for serious reasons (such as medical emergencies), you must file a specific application with the TAL immediately.

Official Forms Relevant to Evicted Tenants

• Application to Suspend or Review an Eviction: Form T or online application – Use this if you qualify and need more time or wish to contest the eviction on certain grounds. Available on the TAL website. For example, if you were unable to attend your hearing for a valid reason, you may apply quickly for a review.
• Application for Emergency Housing Assistance: No single form, but you can apply directly through local housing offices or social services. Visit Quebec’s Emergency Shelter and Support portal for current options.

If you’re unsure which application fits your case, contact the TAL or local legal aid promptly for guidance.

Searching for a New Home Quickly

After eviction, finding safe and affordable housing is possible if you act quickly and know your options. You might feel pressured, but there are many supports in Quebec to help renters in difficult situations.

• Contact Local Social Housing Services: Search and apply for subsidized or emergency housing with your local municipal office or social services (often called “Office municipal d’habitation”).
• Spread the Word: Let friends, family, and trusted community members know you’re searching for a new rental. Sometimes personal networks help you find short-term options fast.
• Browse Online Rental Platforms: Canada's best rental listings platform makes it easy to view available rentals coast to coast, including affordable options in Montreal, Quebec City, and beyond.
• Look for Emergency Shelters: If immediate housing is needed, call 211 or visit the provincial resource page.

Tips for Securing Your Next Rental

When applying for a new home after eviction, you may be asked about your previous rental history. It’s helpful to prepare in advance:

• Be honest, but emphasize your current ability to pay and provide references.
• Gather all required identification and proof of income.
• If you need to pay a rental deposit, learn your rights by reviewing Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Check that any new rental is safe by referring to Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
• Ask for a written lease from all new landlords (in Quebec, this is usually a mandatory government-approved lease form).

Prepare a letter of explanation about your eviction if required. Focus on what’s changed and your plan for stable tenancy.

After Signing a New Rental Agreement

Take these steps to ensure a smoother transition into your new home:

• Complete a walk-through of the property with your new landlord. Feel free to use the guidance from Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
• Secure written copies of all documents, receipts, and keys.

If you have questions about your new lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Dealing with Emotional and Practical Stress

Eviction is stressful. Lean on local support networks, counseling services, or Quebec’s tenant associations for assistance throughout this transition. If you need more time to move or special accommodations for health or family reasons, contact the TAL immediately. There may be flexibilities available on a case-by-case basis.

FAQ: Finding Housing After Eviction in Quebec

1. Will an eviction stay on my record permanently in Quebec?
   Evictions in Quebec are generally recorded in TAL decisions, but are not available in a permanent “rental history file” like a credit bureau. Some landlords may search tribunal decisions, so being honest and providing explanations can help you secure future rentals.
2. Can I apply for social or subsidized housing after an eviction?
   Yes, you can apply for municipal or provincial social housing even if you have been evicted. Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, so demonstrate your current need and situation.
3. What are my rights regarding my previous belongings?
   You have a right to collect your belongings from your former rental, but act quickly. If items are left behind, the TAL can offer more information or support on timelines and legal procedures.
4. What official documents or forms do I need when searching for a new rental?
   Generally, you’ll need government-issued identification, proof of income, references, and, in Quebec, a signed lease on the official government form.
5. Where can I find affordable rentals in Quebec?
   You can Browse apartments for rent in Canada, including listings for Quebec cities, using Houseme or check with your local municipal housing office.

Key Takeaways for Tenants in Quebec

• If you are evicted, act quickly to secure alternate housing and connect with local support services.
• Your rights remain protected; get information from the Tribunal administratif du logement and review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.
• Being open and prepared will make it easier to find your next rental home, and resources such as Houseme can help you view available rentals coast to coast.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) — For legal information, forms, or to file applications
• Local Office municipal d'habitation (OMH) — For applying to social or emergency housing
• Éducaloi: Eviction and Tenant Rights — Plain-language info
• Dial 211 or visit 211 Quebec for lists of emergency housing shelters
• Legal Aid Quebec: Commission des services juridiques

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1. [1] Quebec Civil Code, Book V: Lease of Residential Dwellings
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

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