If you rent in Quebec and face a broken furnace, plumbing leak or other maintenance problem, you need clear steps to protect your health and your tenancy. This guide explains tenant and landlord responsibilities for routine and urgent repairs, how to notify the owner in writing, what counts as an emergency, and when to apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for help. Practical tips, sample actions and official forms are included so renters can resolve issues quickly while keeping records to support a complaint or application. The language is plain and focused on Quebec tenants and renters seeking reliable, step-by-step options.
Repairs and responsibilities in Quebec
Under Quebec law, landlords must provide safe, clean and habitable housing while tenants must take reasonable care and report problems promptly. If a repair is needed because of normal wear and tear or a building problem, the landlord normally pays and must act within a reasonable time. If the tenant or their guests caused damage, the tenant will usually pay for the repair. Always notify the landlord in writing and keep a copy of the notice and any responses.
What counts as an urgent repair?
Urgent repairs are problems that pose immediate risk to health, safety or habitability. Common urgent issues include total loss of heat in winter, major plumbing leaks causing flooding, gas leaks, and electrical hazards. Report urgent repairs immediately by phone if there is danger, and follow up in writing so you have a record.
- Heating failure that makes the unit dangerously cold
- Major plumbing leaks or burst pipes
- Loss of hot water affecting sanitation
- Gas smell or exposed electrical wiring creating fire risk
How to notify your landlord
Start with a clear written notice that explains the problem, states the date and time you reported it, and requests repair within a reasonable timeframe. Keep a copy for your records and ask for written confirmation of receipt. If the landlord responds, save any repair receipts, contractor notes and messages.
When the landlord does not act
If the landlord fails to respond or refuses to repair an urgent issue, tenants have options depending on the problem and urgency. For immediate danger, call emergency services. For serious habitability issues that are not immediately life-threatening, you can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement to request an order for repairs or rent reduction.[1] The Tribunal can issue binding decisions and set deadlines for work to be done.
Practical examples and official forms
Common official actions include filing an application with the Tribunal to request repairs, reimbursement for emergency expenses, or a rent reduction. The Tribunal publishes forms and guidance on how to apply and what evidence to provide. Examples:
- Application to the Tribunal (form available on the Tribunal forms page, number: N/A) — used to start a formal proceeding; example: you pay for an emergency pump to stop flooding and apply for reimbursement and an order to fix the underlying leak.[3]
- Notice and supporting documents (no universal number) — used to show you gave written notice and attempted to resolve the issue; example: you attach dated photos and repair estimates when applying to the Tribunal.
For step-by-step guidance on emergency repairs and tenant responsibilities see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and for routine maintenance rules see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
FAQ
- Who usually pays for repairs in a rental unit?
- The landlord normally pays for repairs needed to keep the unit habitable. Tenants are responsible for damage they or their guests cause and for routine upkeep like minor cleaning.
- What should I do if an urgent repair is ignored?
- Document the issue, call emergency services if it threatens safety, notify the landlord in writing, and apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement if the landlord does not act.
- How do I apply to the Tribunal and what will I need?
- You file an application with the Tribunal and include your written notices, photos, receipts and any estimates. Use the Tribunal forms and follow filing instructions on the official site.[1]
How-To
- Document the problem with photos, video and dated notes so you have clear evidence.
- Notify the landlord in writing describing the issue, date and requested action and keep a copy.
- If there is imminent danger call emergency services and then inform the landlord immediately.
- If the landlord does not act, gather documents and file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement to request repairs, reimbursement or rent reduction.[1]
Help and Support / Resources
- Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) — file an application and view forms
- [2] Civil Code of Quebec (CCQ) — tenancy provisions and obligations
- Quebec Government — housing and renters information
