How Quebec Tenants Can Reopen a Closed LTB (TAL) Case

If you're a tenant in Quebec facing challenges like eviction, repairs, or disputes with your landlord, the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL, formerly Régie du logement) provides streamlined dispute resolution. But what if your case at the TAL has been closed and you believe there was a serious error or new evidence? Reopening a closed case is possible, but the rules are strict and timelines must be respected. This guide explains your rights and next steps, including how to request a review, which forms to use, and where to get support—all using clear, plain language for Quebec tenants.

Understanding the TAL: Quebec's Rental Tribunal

Quebec residential tenancy issues are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). The TAL is responsible for decisions about rent increases, evictions, maintenance, and more. These decisions are based on Quebec's Act respecting the Régie du logement^[1].

Can a Closed TAL Case Be Reopened?

Once the TAL issues a decision on your case, it is generally considered final. However, Quebec law allows you to request a review (also called "reconsideration" or "rectification") under certain specific circumstances:

• There was a serious error in the process (for example, you did not receive notice of your hearing).
• New evidence has come to light that was not available at the original hearing.
• There was a clerical or calculation mistake in the decision.

Each situation has its own rules and strict deadlines—often as short as 10 days after learning about the decision.

Review of Judgment (Demande de révision)

Quebec tenants can file a "Request for Review" if they believe the hearing was unfair, they were unable to attend for valid reasons, or important facts were not considered. You will usually need to show:

• You did not receive the hearing date or decision.
• Serious illness or emergency prevented your attendance.
• There was a procedural error or new, critical evidence.

A review gives you another chance for the TAL to re-examine your case based on these facts.

How to Apply: Forms and Procedures

To reopen a case at the TAL, you must complete and file the right form promptly. Here are steps and official forms:

1. Application for Review (Demande de révision)

• Form name: Application to Request the Review of a Decision by Default (Form TAL-545A).
• When to use: If you missed your hearing or believe the decision was made without your input.
• Deadline: Usually within 10 days of being made aware of the decision.
• Official source: TAL Application for Review
• Example: A tenant missed the TAL hearing due to hospitalization and was ordered to be evicted ‘by default.’ They can file this application, explaining the reason for missing the hearing and including supporting documents (such as a hospital note).

2. Application for Correction (Demande de rectification)

• Form name: Application for Correction of a Decision (no official form number on TAL website).
• When to use: To correct a clerical, calculation, or transcription error in the written decision.
• Official source: TAL Application for Correction
• Example: If the amount of rent arrears or dates written in the order are incorrect, you may file this request for the TAL to fix it.

Be sure to follow the instructions on the form, tell your story clearly, and attach copies of any documents supporting your request.

For broader guidance on tenant rights and practical housing issues, you may also want to read Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them or learn about Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you're looking for your next home, you can Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings in Quebec and beyond.

For a full overview of Quebec housing law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I reopen my TAL case if I missed my hearing?
   Yes, but only under strict circumstances—such as not receiving notice or having a medical emergency. You must file an Application for Review (TAL-545A) within 10 days of learning about the decision.
2. What should I do if there is a mistake on my TAL decision?
   File an Application for Correction as soon as possible. This is for obvious errors—such as rent amounts or dates—not for re-arguing your original case.
3. What is the deadline to request a review or correction?
   Usually 10 days from when you became aware of the decision or error. Act quickly and keep all documentation.
4. Will there be another TAL hearing after I file a review?
   If the tribunal finds your reason valid, a new hearing may be scheduled so all sides can be heard.
5. Where can I get help filling out TAL forms?
   You can contact the TAL directly or reach out to community legal clinics for free tenant advice in Quebec.

Conclusion: What Quebec Tenants Should Remember

• Reopening a closed TAL case is possible, but only in limited situations and with short deadlines.
• Use the correct TAL form, explain your circumstances, and provide any supporting documentation.
• Reach out for help from the TAL or tenant support organizations if you are unsure about your rights or the process.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) — Information, forms, and guides.
• Éducaloi — Legal information for tenants in Quebec.
• Comité d'action des citoyens et citoyennes de Verdun — Tenant advocacy in the Montreal area.
• Local community legal clinics — Search by region for help with forms and tenant support.

1. Act respecting the Régie du logement (Quebec Housing Act)
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)