Can I get my eviction record sealed in Quebec?

There is no standard process for sealing or erasing an eviction record in Quebec. Eviction decisions from the TAL remain public unless a rare confidentiality order is issued.

Will landlords see my eviction if they search my record?

Yes, most landlords and tenant screening agencies can access public TAL decisions, including eviction records.

Is there a form to ask for privacy for my eviction?

Quebec tenants can request confidentiality or redaction from the TAL, but these are seldom granted and require valid, serious reasons.

Sealing an Eviction Record in Quebec: What Tenants Need to Know

Post-Eviction Resources Quebec published June 25, 2025

If you’re a tenant in Quebec, an eviction can affect your future rental options and peace of mind. Understandably, many tenants are concerned about whether an eviction will follow them for years, impacting their ability to secure a new home. This guide explains what happens to eviction records in Quebec, if and how they can be sealed or hidden, and your options as a tenant after an eviction.

Are Eviction Records Public in Quebec?

In Quebec, tenancy disputes — including eviction orders — are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). When an eviction is ordered by the TAL, the decision becomes part of the tribunal’s public record, which can usually be found online or requested in-person.

Generally, these decisions:

Include both the landlord’s and tenant’s names
Are public and searchable by landlords and tenant screening agencies
Are not automatically removed or sealed, even after several years

Can Tenants Seal or Remove an Eviction Record in Quebec?

As of 2024, Quebec does not offer a standard process for sealing or expunging an eviction record from TAL. Once a decision is public, it remains accessible unless the tribunal specifically orders confidentiality — which is very rare and usually reserved for sensitive circumstances (such as to protect someone’s safety).

However, tenants may apply to have identifying details anonymized or the record restricted if they have strong, specific reasons. The process can be complex and is only granted in exceptional cases.

What If the Eviction Was Unfair or in Error?

If you believe your eviction was incorrect or if new information has come to light, you may have options for review:

Apply for Revision: You can request a review or appeal of a TAL decision, but only within specific time limits (often within 30 days of the decision). See the Request for Revision (Requête en révision) process for guidance.
Apply for Confidentiality: In very limited cases, you can make a formal request to the TAL for confidentiality ("requête pour ordonnance de confidentialité"). The tribunal will only grant it if disclosure poses significant harm. For details, see official guidance on Confidentiality and Redaction.

Keep in mind: Once an eviction decision becomes public, removing or sealing the record requires a valid legal basis and generally the assistance of a legal professional.

How Long Does an Eviction Record Last?

Tribunal decisions published by the TAL can remain accessible for an indefinite period. There is currently no mandatory "expiry" or removal date for these records.

How Does an Eviction Affect Your Rental Future?

Many Quebec landlords and property managers perform background checks by searching public tribunal decisions and using private tenant screening databases. An eviction on record can make it harder to secure a new rental.

However, not all landlords check these records, and explaining the situation honestly may help. For general tenant rights in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

What Steps Can You Take After an Eviction?

Experiencing eviction is stressful, but there are constructive actions you can take:

Gather reference letters from past landlords or employers
Offer to pay a larger deposit or several months’ rent in advance (where legal)
Be upfront with potential landlords about the eviction and explain the circumstances
Demonstrate steady income or stable employment

For more on practical advice about moving forward, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

While you can’t erase an eviction record in Quebec, you can show new landlords that you’re a responsible tenant in other ways.

Which Official Forms Might Apply?

Request for Revision: Used to ask the TAL to re-examine its own decision. File as soon as possible after receiving the eviction decision. Details and English/French forms are on the TAL official site.
Request for Confidentiality or Redaction: Application to have your identifying information hidden in the public TAL decision. Very limited scope and requires strong justification. For instructions, visit the official confidentiality request page (French).

Always check deadlines. Missing a limitation date can prevent your application from proceeding.

Understanding Quebec’s Tenancy Law

Evictions and tenant rights in Quebec are governed by the Civil Code of Quebec, Book V—Obligations, Section II: The Lease of Residential Dwellings¹. This is administered by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

Quebec’s laws are unique and differ from other provinces. Always rely on official guidance or seek professional advice for your specific case.

Where to Find Secure Rental Options

If you’re searching for a new place after an eviction, finding a responsive and trustworthy landlord is important. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and compare neighbourhoods, prices, and amenities to help make the best choice for your next home.

FAQ: Quebec Tenant Eviction Records

Can I erase or expunge my eviction record in Quebec?
No. Quebec does not offer a standard expungement process for eviction records. They remain part of the public record unless a rare confidentiality order is granted.
Is my eviction public information?
Yes, eviction decisions issued by the TAL are generally public and can be found by anyone searching tribunal records.
Can I appeal an eviction decision?
You may apply for revision with the TAL within 30 days of the decision. After that, appeals are limited to very specific legal errors.
Do other provinces seal eviction records?
Most provinces, like Quebec, make eviction decisions public — but the procedures and access may differ. For information, check official pages for your province or territory.
What can I do to rent after an eviction?
Offer references, explain your situation honestly, and show evidence of steady income. Consider reading Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for more advice.

Key Takeaways for Quebec Tenants

Eviction records from the Tribunal administratif du logement are public and rarely sealed in Quebec.
You may file a request for revision or confidentiality in exceptional circumstances, but success is limited.
Prepare for your next rental by collecting strong references and demonstrating responsibility.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official Guide: Resources, forms, and information
Centre Juridique de Québec: Legal information and help lines
RCLALQ (Regroupement des comités logement et associations de locataires du Québec): Tenant advocacy and advice (French)
For a full outline of your rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Civil Code of Quebec, Book V—Obligations, Section II: The Lease of Residential Dwellings