Pest Infestations: Landlord Duties and Penalties

Landlord responsibilities in Quebec

Landlords in Quebec must provide and maintain rental housing in a good state of repair and fit for habitation, and must take reasonable steps to remedy pest infestations when they affect habitability. Tenants should notify their landlord in writing, keep records of communications, and request timely action. If a landlord does not act, tenants may apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for orders or remedies.^[1]

What landlords are commonly required to do

• Arrange and pay for necessary extermination and repairs when infestations are not caused by tenant negligence.
• Respond within a reasonable time and schedule treatments or inspections promptly.
• Keep records of inspections, treatment reports and invoices.

Common pests and when action is required

Common threats include rodents, cockroaches, bedbugs and ants. Landlords typically must address infestations that originate from building-wide issues or previous tenants; tenants may be responsible when infestation results from their unit’s cleanliness or behaviour. Discuss responsibility, request professional treatment, and preserve evidence such as photos and receipts.

What tenants should do

Follow clear steps to protect your rights and speed remediation.

• Document the problem with dated photos, videos and written notes.
• Report the infestation to the landlord in writing and keep a copy of the notice.
• Allow reasonable access for professional extermination while protecting your privacy and belongings.
• Keep a timeline of responses and missed deadlines to support any application to the tribunal.

Forms and official processes

The main recourse in Quebec for unresolved housing habitability or pest disputes is the Tribunal administratif du logement. Tenants can file an application online or by mail to request orders for repairs, compensation or reductions in rent.^[1]

Key official form

Application to the Tribunal administratif du logement (online application) — Use this form to ask the tribunal for an order requiring repairs, reimbursement of expenses, or rent reduction. Example: if your landlord refuses to hire an exterminator after you reported a bedbug infestation and you paid for treatment, submit the application with copies of receipts and photos to seek reimbursement.

The Civil Code of Quebec sets landlord and tenant obligations and is used by the tribunal when deciding cases.^[2]

Enforcement and penalties

If the tribunal finds the landlord failed to meet obligations, it can order repairs, require reimbursement, reduce rent, or award other remedies. Repeated or serious non-compliance can lead to fines or orders that require landlords to act within set deadlines.

When to consider formal action

• If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time after written notice.
• If you have clear evidence (photos, receipts, witness statements) and the problem affects habitability.
• If the landlord refuses to reimburse reasonable treatment costs you paid after giving notice.

FAQ

Who is responsible for paying for extermination?

Responsibility depends on the cause; landlords typically pay for building-origin infestations, while tenants may pay if their actions caused the problem. Document and notify the landlord in writing.

How long does a landlord have to fix a pest problem?

There is no single fixed deadline; landlords must act within a reasonable time based on the severity and health risk. If action is delayed, tenants can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for orders.

Can I withhold rent until the infestation is solved?

Withholding rent is risky and generally not recommended; use written notices and tribunal applications to seek remedies instead.

How-To

1. Document the infestation with photos, videos and dated notes.
2. Send a written notice to the landlord describing the problem and the date you first observed it.
3. Allow reasonable access for inspection and professional treatment when scheduled.
4. Keep receipts for any expenses you pay related to extermination or replacement of damaged items.
5. If the landlord fails to act, prepare an application with evidence for the Tribunal administratif du logement.
6. Use tribunal contact channels or legal clinics for help completing forms or preparing your case.

Help and Support / Resources

• Tribunal administratif du logement — official portal and online services
• Quebec government — Renting: rights, obligations and practical information
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

1. [1] Tribunal administratif du logement
2. [2] Civil Code of Quebec (CCQ-1991)