Moving In and Out Guide for Quebec Tenants

Moving into or out of a rental home in Quebec comes with important legal steps and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords. Whether you're handing over the keys to your new place or preparing to leave your current apartment, understanding the key issues—from inspections and deposits to notice periods and end-of-lease requirements—can help you avoid disputes and protect your rights. This guide covers the essentials for tenants facing a move in Quebec, under one of Canada's most tenant-protective legal frameworks.

Before You Move In: What Quebec Tenants Must Know

Starting a new lease should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Here are some important points to keep in mind before you move in:

• Read your lease agreement thoroughly to understand your obligations and included services (like heating or appliances).
• Inspect the unit carefully and document any damage or missing items. Photos work well as evidence.
• Confirm the move-in date and how to collect your keys with your landlord.
• In Quebec, asking for a security deposit is generally not permitted,¹ so most tenants only pay the first month's rent in advance.

For details on inspections when moving in, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants. This includes best practices and a checklist of what to look for before you unpack your boxes.

Your Rights and Responsibilities After Signing

The lease agreement is legally binding as soon as both you and the landlord have signed. It's your responsibility to:

• Pay rent on time, in full.
• Maintain cleanliness and avoid damaging the property.
• Respect the rules (e.g., no smoking or pets if prohibited).
• Promptly notify your landlord of repairs or safety concerns.

For a full overview, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Navigating Maintenance, Repairs, and Common Issues

Quebec law states that landlords must maintain rental units in good and livable condition. This means:

• Appliances and fixtures must work properly.
• No health hazards such as mold, pests, or exposed wiring.
• You must use the premises in a responsible way, avoiding serious damage.

If you encounter safety issues, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for what to look for and how to request repairs.

In urgent situations (like a water leak or loss of heat in winter), you have the right to request emergency repairs, and you should contact your landlord right away. If repairs aren't made, you can apply to Quebec's official housing tribunal, the Tribunal administratif du logement (formerly Régie du logement).

Ending Your Lease and Moving Out Legally

To ensure a smooth move-out, tenants need to:

• Provide proper notice, usually three to six months before the end of a fixed-term lease, depending on lease length.²
• Leave the unit in a clean, undamaged condition (normal wear and tear expected).
• Return all keys and provide a forwarding address.

If you need to end your rental early due to special circumstances (e.g., family violence, disability, or being offered social housing), Quebec has specific forms and processes. Otherwise, subletting or lease assignment might be possible with landlord permission.

For step-by-step advice, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Move-Out Inspection and Handling Deposits

The landlord may inspect the unit before you move out to check for damage. Remember, security deposits (other than for lost keys) are generally illegal in Quebec.¹

Move-out tip: Document the condition of your unit with photos, and have your landlord sign a statement (if possible) to confirm the property's condition upon exit.

Key Forms and Official Actions When Moving In or Out

• Notice of Non-Renewal or Termination of Lease (Form) – Use this to officially inform your landlord if you’re not renewing a fixed-term lease. This form and instructions are available from the Tribunal administratif du logement. Ensure you send it within legal timeframes (e.g., at least three months before lease expiry for a 12-month lease).
• Application to Tribunal administratif du logement (Form TAL-068) – If you have a dispute when moving in or out (e.g., landlord claims for damage, or refusal to return illegal deposits), complete this form and follow the submission instructions at the tribunal’s website: Tribunal Forms.

Understanding Quebec Rental Laws and Your Rights

Quebec rental relationships are governed by the Civil Code of Québec, Book Five: Leases.² This law covers tenant protections, moving-in/out rules, deposits, and dispute procedures. For a comprehensive overview of your rights as a Quebec tenant, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

1. Can my Quebec landlord require or hold a security deposit?
   No. Except for key deposits in certain cases, landlords in Quebec cannot legally demand or retain a security deposit.
2. What happens if my landlord does not provide adequate repairs before I move in?
   Let your landlord know immediately, preferably in writing. If unresolved, you may apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for orders or compensation.
3. How much notice do I need to give to end my lease?
   For a typical 12-month lease, you must provide notice at least three months before the lease ends. For other types, consult official guidance or your lease terms.
4. Are move-in or move-out inspections mandatory in Quebec?
   Inspections are not legally required, but they are strongly recommended to avoid disputes over the unit’s condition.
5. Where can I find official rental forms for Quebec tenants?
   All official forms are on the Tribunal administratif du logement website.

1. How do I give valid notice to end my lease in Quebec?
   Confirm your lease's end date, fill out the Notice of Non-Renewal or Termination form, deliver a signed copy to your landlord (registered mail is recommended), and keep proof of delivery.
2. How do I apply to the housing tribunal for a moving dispute?
   Download Application Form TAL-068, complete all sections, provide supporting documents (photos, copy of lease, correspondence), and submit to the Tribunal administratif du logement in person or by mail.
3. How can I document a move-in or move-out inspection?
   Use your phone to photograph each room, write a short list of any issues, and email the details to your landlord for a time-stamped record.
4. How to transfer (assign) your lease to a new tenant?
   Notify your landlord in writing, provide details of the new tenant, and complete any necessary assignment forms as required by Quebec law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Quebec's housing tribunal for filing applications, downloading forms, or resolving disputes.
• Regroupement des comités logement et associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ): Tenant advocacy services in Quebec.
• Quebec Civil Code: Leases: Official Legislation
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec: Complete tenants’ rights resource.

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1. See: Quebec Civil Code, s. 1904 (deposits and rent in advance).
2. Reference: Quebec Civil Code, Book Five: Leases.

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