Finding a rental in Quebec can be challenging, and navigating rental applications even more so. Understanding your rights as a tenant is essential—especially when it comes to illegal rental screening and discrimination. In Quebec, there are strict rules protecting tenants under provincial law, with oversight from the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL, formerly Régie du logement Quebec). This guide breaks down what landlords can (and cannot) ask, what rental screening practices are illegal, and what you can do if your rights are violated.

What Is Rental Screening and Why Does It Matter?

Rental screening is the process landlords use to evaluate potential tenants. It usually includes reviewing your basic identity, rental history, references, and—sometimes—your credit information. While some screening is permitted, there are important legal limits.

What Information Can Landlords Request in Quebec?

According to the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms and the Civil Code of Quebec, landlords may lawfully request information necessary to assess your ability to pay rent and your identity. This includes:

• Your legal name
• Proof of income (e.g., recent pay stub, employment letter)
• References from previous landlords
• Consent to perform a credit check (but only with your written approval)

However, landlords cannot ask for certain types of information, or screen tenants in a way that discriminates based on protected characteristics like race, gender, religion, family status, or disability.

Which Rental Screening Questions Are Illegal?

Under Quebec’s human rights laws, landlords may not ask questions or make decisions based on:

• Race or ethnic origin
• Religion or beliefs
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Family status (having or expecting children)
• Disability or health status
• Age (except in certain seniors’ residences)
• Language or birthplace

Landlords also may not ask for:

• Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)—it’s not required for credit checks
• Unauthorized deposits (e.g., a security deposit or key deposit)
• Your medical history, unless needed for accommodation requests

To learn more about financial requirements at move-in, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Real-World Example of Illegal Screening

If a landlord refuses to rent to you because you are a single parent or asks about your pregnancy, that is illegal discrimination. Similarly, requiring a large deposit or your SIN for a rental application goes against Quebec’s tenant protection laws.

What Forms and Complaints Process Are Available?

If you face illegal rental screening or believe you have been discriminated against, you have options for recourse. The Tribunal administratif du logement generally hears disputes related to tenancy, but discrimination complaints should be directed to the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ).

• Complaint Form – Human Rights: CDPDJ Online Complaint Portal
  Use this form if a landlord discriminates based on race, family status, disability, or any protected ground during rental screening. For example, if you are refused an apartment after disclosing a disability, this form helps document your case.

If your issue relates to general tenancy rights—such as an unauthorized deposit or rent amount—you may also file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement.

• Application to the TAL: Various forms exist based on the issue. See the TAL official forms directory. For example, "Application to Have the Tribunal Recognize a Right or Order a Corrective Measure." Use when you need a legal remedy regarding your landlord’s screening behavior.

Make sure to gather all evidence (emails, application forms, messages) before submitting your complaint.

How Quebec’s Rental Laws Protect You

Quebec rental housing is governed by the Civil Code of Quebec and anti-discrimination rules under the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. These rules apply to all tenants, whether moving into a new place or renewing a lease. Learn more about ongoing rights and obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For a broad overview of your provincial rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must treat every tenant fairly and cannot discriminate during rental screening.
• You do not have to provide your SIN or accept illegal deposits.
• If you’re treated unfairly, you can file a complaint with the CDPDJ or bring your case to the TAL.

FAQ: Tenant Questions About Screening and Discrimination

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because of my family status?
   No, Quebec law protects tenants from discrimination based on family status—including whether you have or are expecting children.
2. Do I have to provide my SIN for a credit check?
   No. Landlords can run a credit check with just your name, date of birth, and address. Your SIN is not required and should not be demanded.
3. What do I do if a landlord asks for an illegal deposit?
   Refuse the request and document the conversation. You may file a complaint with the Tribunal administratif du logement and get more information from the official forms directory.
4. How do I submit a discrimination complaint against a landlord?
   Use the CDPDJ complaint portal to start the official process.
5. Where can I find rental options from reliable sources?
   Explore Canada's best rental listings platform for up-to-date apartment and home listings across Quebec and Canada.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) — Handles residential tenancy questions and disputes
• Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) — Handles discrimination complaints and human rights issues
• Éducaloi Quebec — Information on legal topics for tenants
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms (Quebec): View full legislation text
2. Civil Code of Quebec, residential leasing: Read tenancy legal framework
3. Tribunal administratif du logement (rental board): Official government tribunal resource
4. CDPDJ, complaints portal: File a discrimination complaint

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