Landlord entry into your home is a sensitive topic—especially during the COVID-19 pandemic or periods when public health orders are in effect. In Quebec, both your right to privacy and your landlord’s responsibilities for maintenance and safety are protected by law. This guide will help Quebec tenants understand what landlords can and cannot do when it comes to entering your rental during health emergencies, and how your rights may be affected by special health measures.

Your Right to Privacy in Quebec Rentals

Under Quebec’s rental laws, your home is your private space—even if you rent. A landlord can only enter your unit under specific circumstances, and must respect your right to peaceful enjoyment. The main legislation is the Civil Code of Quebec, which sets rules about entry, notice, and emergencies¹. During health events like COVID-19, additional directives may affect these rules.

When Can a Landlord Enter During COVID-19 or Health Orders?

Generally, a landlord in Quebec needs to provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering your home for things like repairs, inspections, or showings, and they must provide the reason for entry. However, if there’s an emergency—such as a burst pipe or a gas leak—they can enter without notice to protect health and safety.

During COVID-19 or other health emergencies, public health orders may restrict access in order to reduce transmission risk. For example:

• Non-urgent visits: May be postponed if there are government restrictions or if someone in the unit is in mandatory isolation, ill, or vulnerable.
• Urgent repairs: Landlords can still enter for health and safety issues, following all health protocols such as wearing a mask and sanitizing hands.
• Showings to new tenants or buyers: Often require tenant consent during public health orders, or may be replaced by virtual showings.

Landlords must follow public health guidelines set by authorities such as the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (MSSS). If you or a household member is ill or in isolation, inform the landlord and discuss safe arrangements.

Special COVID-19 Directives for Entry

During specific COVID-19 waves or public health alerts, the Government of Quebec COVID-19 Info page offers up-to-date health orders that may affect visits. Examples of special rules may include:

• Mandatory mask-wearing and distancing for all parties during entry.
• Delaying visits if a tenant is at higher risk or quarantined.
• Encouraging virtual rather than in-person showings.

Key Forms and Actions for Quebec Tenants

If you believe your landlord is entering unlawfully or not respecting public health orders, you have options:

• Document the situation: Keep emails, texts, or written notices exchanged.
• Contact the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Formerly the Régie du logement, this is Quebec's residential tenancy tribunal.
• Official Form – Application to the TAL (Form: Demande au tribunal administratif du logement): Use this if you need to resolve a dispute, such as improper entry. Access the form online. You’ll need to describe your situation and the outcome you seek. For example, a tenant might complete this to ask TAL to order the landlord to respect entry rules.

Quebec Law and Tenant-Landlord Obligations

The Civil Code of Quebec governs all aspects of rental, including privacy and entry¹. Both landlords and tenants share responsibilities: landlords must ensure the safety and habitability of your home, while tenants are expected to reasonably cooperate with necessary access.

For a clear overview of Quebec rights, Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec offers practical summaries on privacy, entry, evictions, maintenance, and more. You’ll also find guidance on emergencies in Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

What to Do if Entry Rules Are Not Followed

If you feel unsafe or believe your landlord is not respecting entry laws—especially during a health emergency—you can:

• Politely remind the landlord of required notice and applicable COVID-19 guidelines
• Request postponement or alternative arrangements if you are ill or quarantined
• Contact the TAL to file a complaint or seek mediation
• In emergencies threatening health or safety, contact local authorities

If repairs or urgent maintenance are needed, tenants can refer to the Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities page for more details.

FAQ: Quebec Tenant Questions During Health Orders

1. Can my landlord enter my unit during COVID-19 if I am sick or isolating?
   Landlords are expected to postpone non-urgent visits if you are sick or isolating. Only emergency situations usually justify entry during those times, and all health protocols must be followed.
2. Does my landlord have to wear a mask or take safeguards when entering?
   Yes, during public health emergencies, landlords (and anyone entering) must follow government health guidelines—typically masking, hand hygiene, and distancing.
3. How much notice must my landlord give for non-emergency entry?
   At least 24 hours’ written or verbal notice is required in Quebec for most non-urgent entries, with a specific reason stated.
4. What should I do if I feel my safety is at risk during an entry?
   Communicate your concerns clearly to the landlord. If urgent, contact public authorities or the Tribunal administratif du logement.
5. Are there alternatives to in-person showings during health orders?
   Yes, virtual showings are recommended, and the landlord should seek your consent for any in-person visits. Tenants can suggest alternatives to minimize health risks.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your privacy is strongly protected; entry needs notice, a valid reason, and observance of health orders.
• Emergency repairs or issues may allow entry, but health precautions should be taken.
• If problems arise, the TAL is your main provincial resource for resolving disputes.

For more help navigating entry rights, repairs, and obligations, explore Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec or browse additional Canada's best rental listings platform.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official rental tribunal for disputes, forms, and complaints
• Official Quebec Government Housing Portal
• Quebec COVID-19 Information: Public Health Orders
• Local tenants’ associations and legal clinics—search in your region for advocacy and advice

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1. Civil Code of Quebec – Residential Leases
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official rental dispute tribunal
3. COVID-19 Public Health Orders in Quebec

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