Documenting Move-In & Move-Out Conditions in Quebec

Recording the condition of a rental unit at move-in and move-out is one of the most important things a tenant in Quebec can do to protect their deposit and preserve evidence of the unit’s state. This guide explains practical, tenant-focused steps for preparing a clear move-in checklist, taking dated photos and videos, keeping written notes and copies of communication, and saving receipts for repairs or cleaning. It also describes how documented evidence supports inspections, official forms, and filings with the Tribunal administratif du logement, and when to call for repairs or dispute deductions. Follow these steps to reduce surprises at the final inspection and improve your chances of a fair outcome.

Before you move in

Ask for a joint walk-through and note the condition of walls, floors, appliances, windows, and locks. If the landlord uses a move-in checklist, get a dated copy and keep one for yourself. When you do the walk-through, take multiple dated photos and a short video that pans each room and close-ups of any existing damage. If the landlord declines a joint inspection, still complete your own checklist and send it by email or registered mail so there is a record.

Documenting condition: what to collect

• Dated photos and videos of every room, including close-ups of stains, scratches, and appliance serial numbers.
• Move-in checklist or written inventory signed by you and the landlord, or a time-stamped copy you send to the landlord.
• Receipts and invoices for repairs, cleaning, or professional services you paid for during tenancy.
• Meter readings and appliance readings, noted with date and time.
• Copies of all written communications with the landlord about condition, repairs, or access requests.

Inspections, notices and timing

Give the landlord reasonable notice if you want a joint inspection, and keep copies of the time and method of notice. In Quebec, if a dispute leads to a hearing you will submit evidence and any relevant forms to the Tribunal administratif du logement ^[1]. The Civil Code of Quebec sets out basic lease obligations and timelines that can affect disputes and deductions for damage ^[2].

Move-out and the final inspection

Prepare for the final inspection by cleaning, repairing damage you caused, and assembling the documentation you collected. On the day you return the keys, do a final photo sweep and date the files. If the landlord gives you a list of deductions, ask for itemized receipts or estimates. If you disagree, you can file a request with the Tribunal within applicable deadlines.

• Do a dated photo and video sweep the day you vacate to show final condition.
• Keep proof of any payments for cleaning or repairs you made so you can contest unreasonable deductions.
• If the landlord deducts from your deposit, ask for an itemized statement and receipts.

Official forms and when to use them

Quebec uses tribunal forms for filing disputes, and the Tribunal administratif du logement website lists the current application forms and guides ^[3]. Common tenant-focused uses include asking the tribunal to decide on disputed deductions, rent abatements for habitability issues, or contested notices. Example: if you believe cleaning deductions are excessive, submit photos, receipts, and an application form to the Tribunal with a short written explanation and copies of your move-in checklist and correspondence.

For practical move-in help, read the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants and, when planning a smooth exit, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out. Also consider searching listings when moving: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ

How do I prove pre-existing damage when I move out?

Keep dated photos and videos from move-in and move-out, a signed checklist if possible, receipts for repairs, and all written communications; present these to the landlord or the Tribunal if needed.

What if the landlord refuses a joint inspection?

Complete your own dated checklist and send a copy to the landlord by email or registered mail so there is a time-stamped record, then keep your photos and receipts in case of dispute.

Can a landlord keep my deposit without showing receipts?

A landlord should provide an itemized list and receipts for deductions; if they cannot, you can contest the deduction with the Tribunal administratif du logement ^[1].

Where can I find the law that governs leases in Quebec?

Leases in Quebec are governed by the Civil Code of Quebec; consult the official Civil Code text for articles on lease obligations and remedies ^[2].

How-To

1. Gather clear, dated photos and videos of every room, including close-ups of damage.
2. Create a written move-in checklist with dates and descriptions of defects.
3. Send a copy of your checklist and photos to the landlord by email or registered mail and keep a copy.
4. Keep receipts for any repairs or cleaning you arrange and add them to your file.
5. On move-out day, repeat photos and video, compare to move-in records, and keep everything dated.

Help and Support / Resources

• Tribunal administratif du logement
• Civil Code of Quebec
• Quebec — Renting information

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1. [1] Tribunal administratif du logement
2. [2] Civil Code of Quebec
3. [3] Tribunal administratif du logement — Forms