As a tenant in Quebec preparing to leave your rental home, ensuring you get your deposit back can feel stressful. While Quebec law is strict about what deposits landlords can collect, knowing your rights and the right steps can help you avoid misunderstandings and protect your money. This guide explains how deposits work in Quebec, important laws, and clear steps you should take before moving out.

Rental Deposits in Quebec: What’s Allowed?

Unlike most other provinces, Quebec residential landlords can only ask for a deposit as a guarantee for keys—no security or damage deposit is allowed. This is strictly regulated by Quebec’s Civil Code of Québec^[1]. If you paid any deposit beyond the key guarantee, your landlord must return it.

• Key Deposit: Only for the cost of replacing keys if lost or not returned.
• No Damage Deposit: Landlords cannot request a deposit for damage or unpaid rent.
• Advance Rent: Not allowed. You only pay rent at the start of each term.

For a general overview of how rental deposits work across Canada, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Moving Out: Your Responsibilities

When it’s time to leave, Quebec tenants have clear rights and responsibilities. Begin by properly notifying your landlord—usually with three months’ notice before the end of your fixed-term lease, or as required in your agreement. Next, you’ll need to:

• Return the property in the condition it was received, except for normal wear and tear.
• Settle any outstanding rent or bills.
• Return all keys and access cards.

You can find practical advice for a smooth exit in Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit. For more specific advice as you leave, including notifying your landlord, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

Conducting a Final Inspection

Although an official inspection isn’t always required in Quebec, arranging a walkthrough with your landlord before moving will help document the apartment’s condition and ease the return of your deposit. Both sides should make notes and take photos if needed.

After returning the keys, your key deposit (if any) should be refunded. If it is withheld, your landlord must provide a justifiable reason (such as missing or damaged keys).

What if There’s a Dispute Over Your Deposit?

If your landlord refuses to return your deposit, or withholds an amount you feel is unfair, try to resolve the matter by communicating in writing. If this fails, you can file a claim with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)—Quebec’s official residential tenancy board. The Tribunal reviews disputes between tenants and landlords, including deposits.

Filing a Claim with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

• Form Name: Application to the Administrative Housing Tribunal (Demande au Tribunal administratif du logement)
• How to Use: Complete this official form when you need TAL to intervene in a deposit dispute. Attach any evidence (photos, emails, receipts).
• Official Resource: Download forms from TAL

Submit your application online, in person at a TAL office, or by mail. TAL will notify the landlord of your claim and arrange a hearing if necessary.

Essential Quebec Legislation on Deposits

Quebec’s rules are guided by the Civil Code of Québec. For residential leases, see Book Five: "Obligations, Leases of Residential Immovables" for full legal rules and tenant protections.

Tip: If your landlord collected a damage or cleaning deposit (which is not legal in Quebec), mention this fact politely. You have the right to a full refund.

Quick Steps: Getting Your Key Deposit Back

• Return all keys and access cards directly to your landlord or their agent.
• Request a written receipt showing all items returned.
• Ask your landlord for the deposit refund immediately or within a few days.
• If the deposit is not returned, follow up by email and keep a record of all communication.

With each move, reviewing your obligations helps you avoid last-minute stress and improves your odds of a speedy refund. For more general issues tenants may face, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

To find your next home, browse apartments for rent in Canada through Houseme’s trusted platform.

For more details about tenants' rights in Quebec, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord keep a deposit if I’ve damaged the apartment?
   In Quebec, landlords cannot require a damage deposit. They must use the regular legal process to seek compensation if real damages occur after you move out.
2. How soon should I expect my key deposit back?
   Your landlord is expected to return your key deposit promptly (usually within days of moving out) as long as all keys are returned.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses to return my deposit?
   Contact your landlord in writing first. If the dispute cannot be resolved, file a claim with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).
4. Is a cleaning deposit allowed in Quebec?
   No. Security or cleaning deposits are not permitted under Quebec law.
5. Do I need to leave the apartment spotless to get my deposit back?
   You must leave the rental in the same general condition as you received it, minus normal wear and tear. Major mess or damage could still lead to legal action for compensation, but does not justify a withheld deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): dispute resolution, official forms, guides
• Ministry of Justice, Quebec – Your Rights as a Tenant
• Local tenant associations: These may offer free or low-cost advice and support

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1. Civil Code of Québec, Book Five: Leases of Residential Immovables
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

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