If you're renting a home or apartment in Quebec and your landlord isn't making necessary repairs, you're not alone. Every tenant in Quebec has the right to live in a well-maintained, safe residence. When basic upkeep or urgent repairs are not addressed, it can feel stressful—but there are clear steps and legal protections to help you resolve these issues.

Your Right to a Safe, Functional Home

In Quebec, landlords are legally responsible for keeping the rental property in good condition. This includes performing repairs needed to maintain the home’s safety and basic functions. These obligations are set by the Civil Code of Quebec (Book Five, Title Two, Section 11)¹.

Types of Repairs: Routine, Major, and Emergency

It's important to understand the difference between types of repairs:

• Routine repairs: Minor issues that need upkeep, like dripping taps or broken cabinet hinges.
• Major repairs: Significant problems affecting the home’s livability, such as heating failures or plumbing blockages.
• Emergency repairs: Repairs required to prevent immediate danger, like burst pipes or gas leaks.

For more about common repair responsibilities, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

What to Do If Repairs Are Not Made

Follow this clear action plan if your landlord is failing to perform repairs in your Quebec rental:

Step 1: Notify Your Landlord in Writing

• Describe the repairs needed clearly and include dates, photos, or evidence if possible.
• Send your request by email or registered letter to create a record.

Step 2: Give Reasonable Time

• Allow your landlord a fair period to respond—typically a few days for urgent repairs, up to two weeks for less serious issues.

Step 3: Apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

If your landlord does not respond or act, you can file a formal complaint with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)—Quebec’s official residential rental tribunal.

• You can request that the TAL order the landlord to make repairs, reduce your rent, or allow you to conduct the repairs yourself and recover the costs.

Form to Use: "Application to the Tribunal (Form TAL-001)". For detailed instructions and the form: TAL Application Form (TAL-001).
Example: Marie, a Montreal tenant, notices her heater isn’t working in January. After emailing her landlord twice in a week with no response, she completes and submits Form TAL-001 to request an order for urgent repair.

Step 4: Emergency Repairs—Acting on Your Own

If an emergency creates a health or safety risk and your landlord is unreachable or unresponsive, you may be allowed to arrange repairs yourself and seek reimbursement (keep all receipts). However, only do this when absolutely necessary and after documenting your attempts to contact the landlord.

Always consult with the TAL or a tenant rights group before paying out of pocket for repairs. This ensures your right to reimbursement.

Protecting Your Health and Safety

Unaddressed repairs can cause Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. Mold, heating loss, or electrical faults should be reported promptly, as they put your well-being at risk. These concerns are taken seriously by the TAL.

Key Legislation Covering Tenant Repairs

• Civil Code of Quebec (Book Five, Title Two, Section 11)
• TAL Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants

You may also want to review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec for a broad overview of legal protections specific to your province.

Looking for a New Place?

If chronic repair issues are impacting your quality of life, it may be time to consider other options. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a smooth move to a safe, well-kept property.

FAQ: Tenant Questions About Repairs in Quebec

1. Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t make repairs?
   No. In Quebec, you must continue paying rent even if your landlord delays repairs. Instead, apply to the TAL to resolve the issue.
2. What if the repair is urgent and my landlord is unavailable?
   You may be allowed to arrange the emergency repair and ask for reimbursement—document everything and consult with the TAL first.
3. How long does my landlord have to do repairs?
   It depends on urgency. Immediate dangers should be fixed within days; less urgent repairs may take up to two weeks.
4. Can I end my lease due to major unaddressed repairs?
   If the repair issues make the unit unsafe or uninhabitable, you may request to end your lease early through the TAL.
5. Who pays for repairs in a Quebec rental?
   The landlord must pay for repairs due to normal wear and tear or property defects. Tenants are responsible for damage they cause.

Summary—Key Takeaways

• Quebec law requires landlords to maintain rental properties in safe, livable condition
• Always notify the landlord in writing first, then pursue legal options if needed
• The TAL is the official board to help when repair requests are ignored

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official information, forms, and guidance
• Quebec Municipal Housing Resource – Local tenant information and supports
• Tenant advocacy organizations – For advice or representation, consider contacting local offices like RCLALQ (Quebec Tenants' Rights Association)

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1. Civil Code of Quebec, Book Five, Title Two, Section 11. See the Civil Code.
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official Site.

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