If you've faced an eviction judgment in Quebec, the road ahead can feel uncertain — especially when it affects your credit rating, housing options, and peace of mind. Fortunately, Quebec's legal system offers clear paths for tenants to understand their rights, mitigate negative impacts, and begin repairing credit after an eviction. This practical guide will walk you through essential steps, official resources, and helpful tips, whether you're looking to rent again or get on your financial feet.

Understanding Eviction Judgments and Credit Impact in Quebec

When a landlord wins an eviction case against a tenant in Quebec, the Tribunal administratif du logement may issue a judgment, sometimes including an order to pay overdue rent or other amounts. This judgment can be reported to credit agencies if the debt isn't paid, affecting your ability to rent or secure loans in the future.

• The eviction order itself does not automatically appear on your credit report.
• If the landlord wins a monetary judgment (such as unpaid rent) and registers it with court bailiffs, that debt typically appears on your consumer credit file.
• Judgments can impact your score for up to six years or until satisfied/removed.

First Steps: What to Do After an Eviction Judgment

Start by understanding what the judgment means for you. Always get a copy of the decision from the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), Quebec's official tenancy board. Review whether you owe money and any timelines for appeal or payment.

Requesting a Revision or Appeal

• Form Name: Demande de révision (Request for Revision)
• When to use: If you missed the hearing for serious reasons or have new evidence, use this form within 10 days of receiving the judgment.
• Example: You were hospitalized on the hearing date and can provide proof — file the request promptly to ask for a new hearing.

Paying Off Judgments and Settling Debts

The single most effective way to stop credit damage is to fully pay any outstanding debts specified in the judgment. Request written confirmation of payment from the landlord or the bailiff handling your case. Once paid, credit agencies will update your record, and the judgment's negative weight is significantly reduced.

Request a Satisfaction of Judgment

• Form Name: Mainlevée de jugement (Satisfaction of Judgment) – usually handled through the Tal or Small Claims Court clerk
• When to use: After you've paid what you owe in full
• How to use: File a written request with proof of payment to have the judgment marked as « paid » (satisfied) in court records
• Official resource: Justice Quebec – Removing judicial records after payment

Monitoring and Repairing Your Credit

Both major credit bureaus in Canada — Equifax and TransUnion — allow you to check your credit for free. Review your file to confirm whether any landlord judgments are listed and if they're marked as paid once you’ve settled debts.

• If you see incorrect information, dispute it directly with the bureau.
• Build new positive credit by paying bills on time and maintaining low balances on credit products.

Next Rental: What You Need to Know

If you want to apply for a new rental after an eviction, some landlords may request references or inquire about past judgments. Be upfront if asked, and provide proof if you've repaid any debts. Learning more about Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know can also help you prepare for your next move.

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Know Your Rights: Tenant Protections in Quebec

Quebec's Act Respecting the Régie du logement (now under the Tribunal administratif du logement) outlines tenant protections, including timelines for debt collection and your rights during and after eviction. For more detailed information, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

FAQ: Credit Repair After Eviction in Quebec

1. Does an eviction judgment always appear on my credit report in Quebec?
   An eviction itself won't automatically appear, but any unpaid money judgments (such as for rent arrears) that are registered through court or with a bailiff may be reported to credit bureaus.
2. Can I remove an eviction-related debt from my credit report?
   Yes. Once fully paid, you can request a "satisfaction of judgment" to update public records and contact credit bureaus to confirm the debt has been marked as paid.
3. How long do judgments stay on my Quebec credit report?
   Negative public records typically stay for up to 6 years from the date filed, but paying off the debt promptly may help your credit recover sooner.
4. What if the landlord won't provide proof I’ve paid the debt?
   Gather independent proof (bank statements or a bailiff’s receipt) and file with the Small Claims Court or Tribunal administrator to have the record updated.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• An eviction judgment can affect credit only if a financial order is registered and unpaid.
• Paying debts promptly and keeping all documentation are your best defenses against lasting credit harm.
• Know your rights and use official forms to dispute or resolve judgments as needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – main tribunal for tenant/landlord disputes, with forms and help lines.
• SOQUIJ (Quebec Legal Information) – explanations of Quebec court and tribunal decisions.
• Éducaloi – plain language legal info for Quebec tenants.

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1. "Act Respecting the Régie du logement" (L-6.2), official legislation of Quebec
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official Quebec Tribunal
3. Justice Quebec – Judicial Records Induced by Debt

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