Quebec offers a range of rental options, from short-term stays in furnished apartments to classic year-long leases for tenants. But how do short-term rentals differ from long-term residential tenancies, and what does this mean for your legal rights? If you're a tenant in Quebec, knowing these differences is essential for protecting yourself, especially as more rental properties are listed for short stays on platforms like Airbnb or as conventional long-term homes.

Key Differences: Short-Term Rentals vs Long-Term Tenancies

Short-term rentals and long-term tenancies differ by duration, regulation, and tenant protections. Understanding these differences can help you make informed housing choices and avoid unexpected legal issues.

Short-Term Rentals in Quebec

• Duration: Usually less than 31 days, often booked nightly or weekly via online platforms.
• Use: Typically for tourism, business trips, or temporary stays.
• Regulation: Governed by consumer protection law, municipal by-laws (many cities require registration and restrict usage), and sometimes the Régie du logement (Quebec Administrative Housing Tribunal) [Quebec Tribunal].
• Tenant Protections: Limited. These arrangements are not covered by Quebec’s main tenancy legislation, meaning eviction, rent control, and other tenant protections don't usually apply.

Long-Term Tenancies in Quebec

• Duration: Usually 12 months (fixed-term) or ongoing (periodic), with a written lease required for most agreements.
• Use: Main place of residence; tenant rights guaranteed by law.
• Regulation: Governed by the Quebec Civil Code: Lease of Dwellings.
• Tenant Protections: Comprehensive, including rights against illegal eviction, rent increases, deposits, and maintenance obligations.

For long-term tenants, it's also important to learn about your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec to understand protections unique to the province.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Disputes in Quebec?

All disputes about residential leases—including rent, repairs, evictions, and obligations—are managed by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), formerly the Régie du logement. The TAL provides information, dispute resolution, and hears tenant applications.

Relevant Legislation and Forms

The Quebec Civil Code—specifically, sections on the Lease of Dwellings—protects tenants in long-term leases. Short-term rentals, being hospitality rather than housing, usually fall outside this law and under municipal and tourism regulations.

Important Forms for Quebec Tenants:

• Notice to Terminate the Lease (Form: "Avis de résiliation du bail"): Used when a tenant needs to break a fixed-term or periodic tenancy for reasons allowed under the law (e.g., needing a shelter, seniors' home, or experiencing spousal abuse).
  Download the official form and instructions.
  Example: Julie needs to move into a seniors’ residence. She uses this form to officially end her lease by giving notice to her landlord via registered mail.
• Application to the TAL: Tenants can file this for issues like illegal eviction, deposit disputes, or maintenance complaints.
  Quebec TAL forms portal.
  Example: If your landlord tries to evict you without cause from a long-term rental, you would use the "Application to the TAL" to protect your rights.

Always check the TAL's website for the latest form versions and clear guidance on how to submit them.

What Are Your Rights as a Long-Term Tenant?

As a long-term tenant in Quebec, you are covered by specific rights, including:

• Right to remain in your home unless legally evicted through proper notice
• Rent increase protections and limits; landlords must use proper notice
• Right to safe and healthy living conditions
• Obligations for both parties regarding repairs and maintenance

After signing your rental agreement, you should know what to expect and how to protect yourself—see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for details.

Common Issues When Mixing Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals

Problems can arise if you believe you have a long-term lease, but the landlord treats it as a short-term arrangement. Similarly, tenants in short-term rentals may expect protections they do not have by law. Always demand a written lease for any stay longer than 31 days if it's your permanent residence.

Summary: Why Understanding the Differences Matters

Quebec law is clear: your status as a tenant and the protections you enjoy depend on your rental's length and nature. If you're not sure which rules apply to your situation, familiarize yourself with the relevant sections of the Quebec Civil Code on residential leases or consult the TAL.

For those looking for new accommodations, Canada's best rental listings platform, Houseme - your rental solution in Canada, is a great place to browse verified long-term homes and apartments across provinces.

FAQ: Quebec Tenancy & Rental Types

1. What counts as a short-term rental in Quebec?
   Any rental of fewer than 31 consecutive days, mainly for visitors or tourists. These are regulated differently from long-term homes.
2. Does the Quebec Civil Code protect me in a short-term rental?
   No. Protections under the Civil Code only apply if you have a traditional lease and the unit is your principal residence.
3. How can I get help if my landlord is asking me to leave?
   If you have a long-term lease, you can apply to the TAL for assistance or file an official complaint using their forms.
4. Do I need to sign a written lease in Quebec?
   Yes, for long-term tenancies. Written leases are strongly recommended and legally required for certain agreements.
5. Where can I learn more about my tenant rights?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec for a detailed summary.

Conclusion

• Quebec tenants have strong protections for long-term leases—but not for short-term rentals.
• Ensure you have a written lease and know which rules apply to your situation.
• Contact the TAL or review official forms if you need to resolve disputes or assert your rights.

Understanding your rental type helps avoid confusion and gives you peace of mind as a tenant in Quebec.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Main source for tenant applications, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Quebec Government Housing Portal – Comprehensive tenant resources, templates, and advice.
• Local legal clinics and tenant advocacy centres – Many offer free or low-cost advice (search "Community Legal Centre Quebec").

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1. Quebec Civil Code, Book Five: Lease of Dwellings. Read relevant legislation
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Official website
3. Quebec Government Rental Housing Portal. Info and forms

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