If you live in subsidized housing in Quebec—such as low-rent housing (HLM), a rent supplement apartment, or via the AccèsLogis program—you may wonder about your rights to move, transfer, or keep your subsidy. Understanding the transfer and portability options, as well as how to apply, can help you make more informed decisions for your housing situation.

Understanding Subsidized Housing Types in Quebec

Quebec offers several types of subsidized housing, each with its own rules for transfers and portability. The main programs include:

• HLM (Habitations à Loyer Modique): Low-rent apartments managed by local municipal housing offices.
• Rent Supplement Program (PSL): Financial assistance to rent in the private market, administered through your regional housing authority.
• AccèsLogis: Subsidized, community-based housing options for vulnerable tenants.

Transfers Within Subsidized Housing

If you want or need to move from one subsidized unit to another—whether for health, safety, accessibility, or family reasons—you must formally request a transfer. The process and eligibility requirements depend on the specific program and region, but most follow these general principles:

• You must submit a transfer request with supporting documentation (e.g., medical certificate, proof of household change).
• Your eligibility will be reassessed under the program’s current criteria.
• A waiting list may apply, and priority is given to urgent cases (e.g., domestic violence, major health concerns).

Transfers are generally allowed within the same regional housing authority. Moving to a different region usually means starting the application process again, unless your program offers portability.

Portability: Keeping Your Subsidy When You Move

‘Portability’ means continuing to benefit from your subsidy even after moving to another eligible dwelling. In Quebec, not all subsidy programs are portable:

• Rent Supplement Programs (PSL) sometimes allow you to transfer your subsidy if you move within the same region and the new landlord participates in the program. For inter-regional moves, you generally need to reapply.
• HLM (public housing) units are not portable. If you move to a different municipality, you must rejoin the local HLM waiting list.
• AccèsLogis transfer rules vary. Contact your housing provider to clarify portability before planning your move.

Relevant Legislation and Tribunal

Subsidized housing in Quebec is governed by the Act respecting the Société d'habitation du Québec and provincial housing regulations. For tenancy matters or disputes (including issues with subsidized apartments), you can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

For a summary of tenants' rights and responsibilities in Quebec, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec page.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Depending on your municipal office, official forms for transfers may have different titles and numbers. Here are the typical processes and tips:

• Application to Transfer Housing Unit (Form may be titled "Demande de transfert de logement social")
  • When to use: If you need to request a move within social housing for reasons such as medical condition, family status change, or urgent safety concerns.
  • How to use: Ask your municipal housing office for the specific form. Complete it, gather supporting documentation (medical note, police report, etc.), and submit as directed.
  • Where to find: Visit your local housing office’s website or the Société d'habitation du Québec.
• Request for Review or Appeal Form (Formulaire de recours)
  • When to use: If your transfer or portability request is denied and you wish to challenge the decision.
  • How to use: Obtain the appeal form from your housing office. Submit it quickly—often within 30 days of notification—with all supporting evidence.
  • Where to find: Contact your municipal housing office or visit the TAL official forms page.

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

If your transfer or subsidy portability issue cannot be resolved through your housing office, you can apply to the TAL. You may need the "Application to the TAL" form—choose the category that fits your dispute.

Tips When Preparing for a Move

If your transfer is approved, remember your rental responsibilities. For a helpful overview, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit. Ensure you resolve any outstanding maintenance issues and return keys as required by your landlord or housing office.

If there are disagreements about property condition, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for advice on documentation and walkthroughs.

To explore housing options—market rentals as well as subsidized homes—Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with user-friendly search tools.

Frequently Asked Questions About Transfers and Portability

1. Can I keep my subsidy if I want to move to another city in Quebec?
   Most subsidies are not portable to other cities, so you would need to reapply and join the new area's waiting list, except in certain PSL cases where the new city participates in the program. Always verify with your local office first.
2. How do I request a transfer if my family size changes?
   Contact your municipal housing office and request the formal housing transfer form. Attach proof of your new family situation (like a birth certificate or custody arrangement).
3. My transfer request was denied. Can I appeal?
   Yes, you have the right to appeal decisions. Use the "Request for Review or Appeal" form from your housing office and, if needed, seek help from the TAL.
4. How long does a transfer take?
   Processing times vary by urgency, reason, and local availability. Priority is given to urgent (health or safety) cases, but standard moves may require more time on the waiting list.
5. Can I make repairs in my unit before moving?
   You should communicate with your housing office about any repairs. For everyday issues, refer to your tenant obligations in Quebec.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Société d'habitation du Québec (SHQ) – Provincial housing authority
• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Quebec’s residential tenancy tribunal
• Regroupement des comités logement et associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ) – Tenant advocacy and support
• Comités logement – Local tenant information and support services
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec – Key fact sheet for Quebec tenants

---

1. Act respecting the Société d'habitation du Québec (CQLR c S-8.1)
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)
3. Société d'habitation du Québec: Official forms and resources

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy