In Quebec, your home is your private space—even when you rent. Understanding what the law says about landlord entry is vital for protecting your comfort and privacy. This guide explains what counts as illegal entry, your rights as a tenant, the obligations of your landlord, possible penalties for violations, and how to act if your rights are not respected under Quebec law.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Apartment in Quebec?

Quebec law gives landlords limited rights to enter your rental unit. Generally, they must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering for reasons like repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective buyers or tenants. Notices must include the date, time (between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.), and the reason for entry. Emergency situations, such as a burst pipe, are the main exception—your landlord can enter right away to protect people or property.^[1]

What Counts as Illegal Entry?

Illegal entry occurs if your landlord enters your unit without notice, at unreasonable times, without your agreement, or enters repeatedly in a way that becomes harassment. Examples include:

• Entering without notice (except during an emergency)
• Entering repeatedly with little reason, causing you discomfort
• Letting themselves in outside the allowed hours
• Using their own keys when you have not been informed

These actions invade your privacy and may result in penalties or legal consequences for the landlord.

Your Rights and Landlord Obligations

As a tenant, you have the right to peaceful enjoyment of your home. According to Quebec’s Civil Code, landlords are required to:

• Provide 24 hours’ written notice before entering (except in emergencies)
• Enter only between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
• Only enter for valid reasons, such as maintenance, inspection, or showing the unit
• Respect your right to privacy and not abuse their right of access

For more on the expectations for both landlords and tenants, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Happens if a Landlord Enters Illegally?

If a landlord violates entry rules, the law allows you to take action. The Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), Quebec’s official rental board, can order remedies, including financial compensation or a formal order to stop further illegal entry.^[2]

• Monetary compensation for distress or loss of enjoyment
• Orders restraining the landlord from further violations
• Potential penalties or damages imposed by the TAL for repeat or egregious offences

Tenants do not need to tolerate harassment or repeated disruptions to their peace and privacy. The law is on your side.

Filing a Complaint: Step-by-Step Guide

If you experience illegal entry, you should keep careful records and consider the following steps:

• Document every incident (dates, times, and what happened)
• Communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord
• If the behaviour continues, file a complaint with the TAL

Use the TAL’s “Demande” (Application) form—Form Demande au tribunal administratif du logement.
When to use: If your landlord has entered without permission or repeatedly ignores the law, this form lets you ask for compensation or an order requiring them to stop.

• Official form: TAL – Application Form

Example: If your landlord enters without warning multiple times, fill out the Application Form, select “Respect of tenant’s rights,” and submit supporting evidence (texts, emails, your notes). Submit the form in person, by mail, or online via the TAL portal.

How Quebec Law Protects Tenant Privacy

The Civil Code of Quebec sets detailed rules for entry and privacy. Violating these can lead to monetary penalties or even orders to terminate a landlord’s access rights for repeated offences. The Tribunal administratif du logement interprets these rules strictly to protect tenants.

For a broader look at rental rights specific to this province, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Common Tenant Concerns Related to Illegal Entry

Illegal entry can be connected to other challenges like landlord harassment or neglected repairs. Tenants commonly ask about:

• Whether a landlord can enter to perform routine maintenance (Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities)
• Tenant rights when there are unresolved disputes or frequent entry attempts

Protecting your privacy is not just about comfort—it helps ensure fair treatment and respect for your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What can I do if my landlord keeps entering my apartment without notice?
   You can document each incident, send a written notice to your landlord demanding they respect your rights, and file a complaint with the Tribunal administratif du logement if the problem continues.
2. Can a landlord ever enter without notice in Quebec?
   Yes, only in emergency situations like a fire, flood, or when immediate repairs are needed to protect people or property.
3. What kind of compensation can I receive if the landlord violates entry laws?
   The TAL can award financial compensation for stress, inconvenience, or harassment caused by illegal entry; each case is decided individually.
4. How do I file a complaint about illegal entry?
   By completing the Tribunal administratif du logement application form, providing supporting documents, and submitting it in person, by mail, or online.
5. Does the landlord have to notify me for every entry?
   Yes, except in emergencies. Every planned entry, including inspections, showings, or repairs, requires 24 hours’ advance notice in writing.

Key Takeaways

• Your privacy and right to peaceful enjoyment are explicitly protected under Quebec law.
• Landlords must always give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering, except for emergencies.
• Keep written records and use the proper TAL application form to file complaints when your rights are not respected.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Quebec’s rental board for complaints, forms, and legal information
• Éducaloi – Landlord Entry Rules Explained
• Ministry of Justice Quebec, Rental Housing Information
• Local legal clinics and tenant advocacy groups for free advice and representation

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1. Civil Code of Quebec, articles 1930–1931. See the Civil Code of Quebec – Rental Housing (official text)
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Information about applications and enforcement

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