Tenants often face questions about mould, ventilation and essential utilities in rented homes. In Quebec, renters have rights to a safe, habitable dwelling and clear processes to report problems, request repairs and escalate issues if necessary. This guide explains what you should expect from your landlord, when to document and report moisture or mould, how ventilation and heating responsibilities are typically shared, and which official forms and tribunals to contact if repairs are delayed. It uses plain language to help you take practical steps — from keeping records and giving written notices to preparing an application for the Tribunal administratif du logement[1] — so you can protect your health and your tenancy.
What Quebec landlords must provide
Landlords in Quebec must provide and maintain a dwelling that is in good repair and safe to occupy. The Civil Code of Quebec and related rules set the baseline for habitability, including adequate heating, proper ventilation and the obligation to repair leaks that lead to mould.[2] If a defect risks health or safety, the landlord is generally responsible for prompt repair unless the tenant caused the damage. Keep a written record of any requests and responses so you can show the timeline if the issue escalates.
Mould and ventilation: common causes and prevention
Mould often appears where there is persistent moisture: leaky roofs, plumbing faults, inadequate ventilation in bathrooms or kitchens, or poor insulation that causes condensation. Tenants and landlords both reduce risk by controlling humidity, using exhaust fans, airing rooms when possible, and reporting leaks quickly. For health-focused guidance on indoor air and mould, review public health advice and the provincial resources on preventing indoor mould and dampness.
How to report problems and request repairs
- Notify your landlord in writing as soon as you discover mould or a ventilation problem, stating dates and what you observed.
- Keep evidence: dated photos, videos and a short repair log showing when you reported the issue and any follow-up.
- If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, send a formal written notice asking for repairs and keep a copy.
- If repairs are urgent (e.g., active leaks or heating failure), request immediate action and describe the safety risk.
- If needed, contact local tenant help lines or the Tribunal administratif du logement for next steps and filing procedures.
For more on health responsibilities and tenant safety rights, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. For examples of who pays for routine and non-routine repairs, review the practical guidance in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
FAQ
- Who pays to remove mould in a rental unit?
- Landlords usually pay to fix defects that cause mould, such as leaks or structural problems. Tenants may be responsible for mould caused by their behaviour; if the landlord disagrees, document the issue and consider asking the Tribunal administratif du logement for guidance.
- Can a landlord cut utilities if mould is reported?
- No. Landlords cannot legally shut off essential services like heating or hot water to punish a tenant. If utilities are reduced to unsafe levels, document the conditions and seek immediate help from the tribunal or municipal authorities.
- What if the landlord wont let me inspect or enter to repair?
- Landlords must provide reasonable access for repairs with notice. If access is unreasonably refused, record attempts to arrange repairs and consider filing an application with the tribunal to request an order for access or repairs.
How-To
- Document the problem: take clear photos or video, noting dates and locations of mould or leaks.
- Write a dated notice to your landlord describing the issue and the steps you request; keep a copy for your records.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs and follow up in writing after any in-person visits or repairs.
- If the landlord does not act, contact tenant services or the Tribunal administratif du logement for advice on filing an application.
- If you file, include your documentation, dates, written notices and photos so the tribunal can assess the situation.
Key Takeaways
- Report mould and ventilation issues in writing and keep evidence.
- Landlords are generally responsible for repairs tied to building defects.
- The Tribunal administratif du logement can hear disputes when repairs are delayed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Tribunal administratif du logement (official Quebec tenancy tribunal)
- Civil Code of Quebec (rules on lease and obligations)
- INSPQ (public health guidance on indoor air and mould)
Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
