As a tenant in Quebec, your right to privacy inside your rental unit is protected by both provincial law and human rights principles. If you discover unauthorized or hidden surveillance cameras in your apartment or rental property, it's important to understand your rights, the steps to take, and how to seek official help if needed. This guide explains what counts as illegal surveillance, how to respond, and the resources available to Quebec renters facing this issue.

What Counts as Illegal Surveillance in Quebec Rentals?

In Quebec, landlords must respect your privacy within your home. Placing surveillance cameras inside your rented dwelling—such as your bedroom, living room, or bathroom—without your consent is illegal and violates your fundamental rights as a tenant. Even in common areas (like hallways or shared laundry), cameras cannot monitor individual behaviour in a way that is considered invasive or unreasonable.

• Consent Required: Your landlord cannot install cameras in your unit without your written permission.
• Legitimate Purposes Only: Cameras in common spaces must serve a valid security function and avoid capturing private activities.
• Notice: Landlords should notify tenants when surveillance is present in common areas.

If you're unsure about obligations on both sides, check the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained page.

Your Legal Rights as a Tenant

The Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms and the Civil Code of Québec both guarantee a tenant's right to privacy ^[1]. Landlords must not interfere with your peaceful enjoyment of your home, including respecting your right not to be monitored or filmed inside your private living space.

Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec for a full overview of local protections.

What to Do if You Find Illegal Cameras in Your Quebec Rental

If you discover a surveillance camera that you did not authorize, take these steps:

• Document the Camera: Take clear photos or videos of the camera in place and note its location and any identifying features.
• Secure Evidence: Keep written notes (date, time, method of discovery) for your own records.
• Check Your Lease: Review whether the lease mentions cameras or surveillance. (Most Quebec leases do not allow surveillance of the interior.)

• Contact Your Landlord: Communicate concisely in writing (email or letter) to request immediate removal and clarification of purpose.
• Refer to Rights: Mention your right to privacy under the Civil Code.
• Seek a Solution: Set a reasonable deadline for their response—usually 5 to 7 days.
• If No Action: You may proceed to file an official complaint (see next section).

Filing a Complaint with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)

The Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) is Quebec's official residential tenancy authority. If the landlord refuses to remove unauthorized cameras, you can file a formal complaint with the TAL and request the cameras' removal and/or compensation for the violation of your privacy.

Relevant Official Form

• Form Name: "Application to the Tribunal administratif du logement" (Demande au Tribunal administratif du logement)
• Form Number: See "General application" (official forms page)
• When to Use: Submit this form when your landlord has failed to address your privacy complaint. For example, if cameras are left in your unit after your written request, use this form to have the TAL order their removal and seek damages if appropriate.

Download the Application Form from the TAL here.

Potential Outcomes and Additional Steps

After submitting your application, the TAL may set a hearing where you and your landlord present evidence. The Tribunal can:

• Order the landlord to remove illegal cameras
• Require the landlord to pay you compensation if your privacy was invaded
• Set guidelines for future conduct in the building regarding surveillance

For resolving multiple problems in your unit, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Throughout the process, keep all communication polite and documented. If the issue affects your feeling of safety or health, you may also wish to review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

How Quebec Laws Protect Your Privacy

Quebec laws are among the strictest in Canada for protecting tenant privacy. The right to enjoyment and privacy cannot be waived by lease terms, meaning even if a lease mentions cameras, their presence in private living areas often remains unlawful.

• Landlords may face penalties if found violating these rules
• You cannot be evicted for asserting your privacy rights

Learn more about your province's protections on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec page.

Looking for a new place where your privacy is respected? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find your next safe rental.

Frequently Asked Questions About Illegal Cameras in Quebec Rentals

1. Can my landlord put cameras in the hallway or entrance?
   Generally yes, but only for building security—not to monitor individual tenants. Any camera use in common areas must not invade private spaces or activities.
2. What if I find a hidden camera that I didn’t approve?
   Document the device, notify your landlord in writing, and file a complaint with the TAL if it remains. Your privacy is protected by law.
3. Can I break my lease if I feel harassed by surveillance?
   In some cases, ongoing illegal monitoring may entitle you to terminate your lease with the approval of the Tribunal administratif du logement. You must apply officially and provide evidence.
4. What proof do I need if I file a complaint?
   Photos or videos of the camera, copies of your written request, a copy of your lease, and any responses you receive from your landlord will help support your application.

Key Takeaways for Quebec Tenants

• Your privacy inside your rental is strongly protected by Quebec law.
• Never ignore unauthorized surveillance—document, notify the landlord, and use the TAL if needed.
• Support and help are available if you feel your rights are being violated.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official guidance, complaints, forms, and contact information
• Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse: Human rights advice (including privacy)
• Regroupement des comités logement et associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ): Local tenant advocacy
• For a detailed overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec

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1. Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms: Privacy protections
2. Civil Code of Québec CQLR c CCQ-1991: Tenant rights to privacy and peaceful enjoyment
3. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official website, complaint forms and guidance

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