Facing rejection for a rental application in Quebec can be discouraging. As a tenant, it’s important to understand your legal rights, grounds for non-acceptance, and what steps to take next. This guide explains the key rules around application rejection in Quebec, including discrimination protections, your recourses, and links to helpful resources.

Who Can Reject a Rental Application — And Why?

In Quebec, landlords have the right to choose their tenants, but their reasons must comply with the law. While a landlord can lawfully reject an application for reasons like insufficient income or a negative reference check, certain grounds are strictly prohibited.

• Permissible reasons: Inadequate income, poor credit, negative references, inability to pay rent, or a history of late payments.
• Prohibited reasons: Any reason that violates Quebec's anti-discrimination laws, such as race, gender, religion, family status, disability, or sexual orientation.

The main law protecting tenants against discrimination is the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms (Quebec).

What Constitutes Discrimination When Rejecting Applicants?

Under the Charter, landlords in Quebec cannot reject a rental application based on:

• Race or colour
• Religion or creed
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Family status (e.g., having children or being pregnant)
• Social condition (e.g., source of income)
• Disability or use of a guide dog/service animal
• Ethnic or national origin

For a full explanation of tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Required Forms and How to Respond

Landlords in Quebec are not required to give a written explanation for rejecting an application, but you have a right to ask for one. If you feel you were rejected unfairly or due to discrimination, consider these steps:

• Request written reasons: Politely ask the landlord for the specific reasons your application was denied.
• If discrimination is suspected: File a complaint with the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ), Quebec’s human rights commission.

Key Official Forms and Complaint Process

• CDPDJ Discrimination Complaint Form (file online or download the form here): Used when a tenant believes their rental application was refused for a discriminatory reason. Complete the form with all supporting information and submit via the CDPDJ’s website or by mail.
• Quebec’s rental tribunal, known as the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), generally handles disputes once a lease is signed, but if a rejected applicant experiences financial loss, TAL may accept cases in some circumstances. Consult their website for guidance on rental disputes.

If you have other questions about your rights and obligations as a Quebec tenant, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Legal Protections for Prospective Tenants

The Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms is your main source of protection. For further information on housing issues in Quebec, the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) can help answer questions about residential leases and tenant rights. Although most disputes are handled once a lease is in effect, discrimination claims are always covered by the Charter.

Summary of Quebec Legislation

• Civil Code of Quebec — Governs leases and basic rights for landlords and tenants. See relevant sections on leases.
• Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms (Quebec) — Sets out anti-discrimination protection. Read details here.

An application should only be refused on legitimate, non-discriminatory grounds—such as insufficient income or poor references. All other reasons may be challenged.

If you're looking for an apartment or house after a rejection, Browse apartments for rent in Canada using quality search tools and up-to-date listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord in Quebec refuse my rental application because I have children?
   No. Rejecting an application solely because you have children is considered family status discrimination and is prohibited by Quebec law.
   
2. What can I do if I suspect I was refused housing due to discrimination?
   You can file a complaint with the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse. Provide as much detail as possible, including any communication you had with the landlord.
   
3. Are landlords required to provide reasons for rejecting my application?
   No, they are not legally required to provide a reason, but you can request one. If you believe a prohibited ground was involved, you may still file a complaint.
   
4. Can a landlord ask about my source of income?
   Landlords may ask about your ability to pay rent, but cannot refuse based on lawful sources of income such as social assistance, pensions, or child support.
   
5. What laws protect tenants from discrimination when applying for rental housing in Quebec?
   The Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms provides principal protection against discrimination.
   

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Quebec Tenants

• Landlords can only reject applications based on legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons.
• If you suspect discrimination, you have the right to file a complaint with the CDPDJ.
• Stay informed about your rights by reviewing official guides and contacting support services when needed.

Understanding your rights as a prospective tenant improves your chances of securing safe and fair housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• How to file a discrimination complaint (CDPDJ)
• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) — Info and dispute resolution (available in English and French)
• Éducaloi — Reliable legal information for tenants
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec

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1. Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, CQLR c C-12: Official Charter text
2. Civil Code of Quebec: Lease and tenancy sections
3. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): Official site
4. Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ): Official site

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