If you’re a tenant in Quebec facing a dispute—such as a rent increase, eviction, or maintenance issues—you may need to present your case to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), formerly known as the Régie du logement. Collecting and preparing solid evidence is crucial for a successful hearing and for making sure your voice is heard under Quebec’s Act respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal.^[1]

What Is Evidence and Why Does It Matter?

Evidence is any information or documentation that helps prove your side of a dispute. Good evidence not only strengthens your case, but also guides the Tribunal in making fair decisions. Whether you’re challenging a rent increase, objecting to eviction, or seeking repairs, careful preparation helps you present your story clearly and effectively.

Types of Evidence You Can Use

You can use several types of evidence at your TAL hearing, including:

• Written documents: Lease agreements, written communications (emails, texts, letters), rent receipts, and notices.
• Photos and videos: Visual evidence of damage, repairs needed, health or safety issues, or the condition of your home.
• Witness statements: Written or oral testimony from people who have direct knowledge of the dispute—such as friends, neighbours, or inspectors.
• Official forms and reports: Inspection or repair reports, or communications from the landlord or housing inspectors.

Choose evidence that is directly relevant and clearly supports the facts you want the Tribunal to consider. For concerns like maintenance or urgent repairs, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

How to Organize and Submit Your Evidence

The TAL expects all evidence to be clear, organized, and presented in French or English. Here are essential steps:

• Number and label each document and photo. For example: "Photo 1 – Living room water damage", "Email from landlord, June 3".
• Send copies to both TAL (after opening your file) and to the landlord or their representative at least 10 days before the hearing, unless the TAL instructs otherwise.
• Prepare a summary list of all evidence you’ll present, so the member and the landlord can follow your case.

Clear, chronological organization makes your case easier to follow and strengthens your credibility.

Provincial Tribunal, Forms, and Legal Requirements

In Quebec, the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) oversees most landlord-tenant disputes. All applications should be submitted directly through the TAL, using their official forms. Two common forms for tenants include:

• Application Form (Demande introductive d’instance – TAL-775-01A-0): Used to start a case, such as for non-repair, illegal eviction, or contesting a rent increase. Access the application form and instructions here. A practical example: If your landlord fails to fix a heating problem after repeated requests, submit this form with supporting documentation and photos.
• Power of Attorney Form (Procuration – TAL-070-Canada): Needed if someone else (such as a family member) represents you at the hearing. Find the Power of Attorney form here.

For the full list of forms and official instructions, visit the TAL’s forms page.

Quick Tips for Presenting Your Evidence

• Keep your documents and photos neat, clearly marked, and relevant.
• Bring three copies: one for you, one for the Tribunal, and one for the landlord.
• Highlight important passages in texts or letters.
• If using a witness, notify them of the hearing time and confirm their availability.

Thinking about the obligations you and your landlord share? These are covered in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Happens at a Quebec TAL Hearing?

At your hearing, the administrative judge (called a "member") will ask for your documents, listen to witnesses, and may question you or your landlord. Be concise, focus on facts, and refer to your numbered evidence. If you need interpretation services or other accommodations, notify the TAL in advance.

What If My Evidence Is Incomplete?

If you forget or cannot obtain specific evidence, explain this to the member at the start of your hearing. They may grant you extra time or allow some flexibility, especially if the missing evidence is not critical.

For more on your rights and responsibilities in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

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1. How much evidence should I submit to the TAL?
   Submit any documentation that directly supports your case, but focus on quality over quantity. Irrelevant or repetitive evidence can slow down the hearing.
2. Can I submit digital evidence such as phone screenshots?
   Yes, as long as digital evidence is legible and clearly labeled, you can submit photos, screenshots, or printouts. Always provide paper copies if possible.
3. What if my landlord refuses to accept my evidence?
   The Tribunal will consider any evidence you have properly submitted, even if the landlord objects. Just be sure to send copies by the deadline and keep proof of service.
4. Do I need a lawyer to represent me at my hearing?
   No, tenants can represent themselves, but you can also bring a lawyer or authorized representative. Consider seeking legal advice for complex issues.
5. Will the judge tell me if I need more evidence?
   No, the member decides based on what is submitted. Bringing clear, organized, and complete evidence is your responsibility as a tenant.

Key Takeaways for Quebec Tenants

• Start preparing as soon as you receive a hearing date – gather and organize all evidence early.
• Number and label every item of evidence for clarity.
• Use official TAL forms and follow deadlines to submit your materials.

With careful preparation, you’ll be ready to tell your side of the story and protect your rights as a tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official information, forms, and contact numbers.
• Local tenant advocacy organizations: They can guide you through evidence gathering and preparation.
• Legal Aid Quebec: View eligibility and services.
• For questions about landlord/tenant obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

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1. Act respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal (Quebec)
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)
3. Official TAL forms and guides

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