Tenant Rights in Quebec: Discrimination & Accessibility

Discrimination & Accessibility Quebec 2 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Quebec

In Quebec, tenants are protected from discrimination and have the right to accessible housing. Understanding these rights can help tenants maintain a safe and equitable living environment.

Understanding Discrimination in Tenancy

Discrimination in housing is prohibited under the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. Landlords cannot deny rental opportunities based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. If you believe you've faced discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ).

Document every incident and keep copies of emails, texts, and notes with dates. When you’re ready, contact CDPDJ for guidance and to start a complaint; they can explain the process and your timelines.

How to File a Complaint

  • Gather evidence to support your claim, such as emails, texts, or witness statements.
  • Contact the CDPDJ to obtain the necessary forms or file directly online.
  • Submit your complaint using the provided form and wait for their response regarding the investigation.
Evidence can include emails, texts, voicemails, photos of housing conditions, and witness statements. Save originals and make copies; organize by date and summarize what happened.
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Accessibility in Rental Housing

Landlords in Quebec must accommodate tenants with disabilities under reasonable circumstances. This includes allowing modifications such as ramps or accessible bathrooms, provided these changes do not cause undue hardship to the landlord.

Ask for a written accommodation plan and keep a copy; modifications may require a doctor's note and advance notice. You can also ask about who covers costs and whether temporary arrangements are possible.

Communicating with Your Landlord

It's crucial to discuss your needs with your landlord openly. Tenants may need to provide evidence or a doctor's note to substantiate their request for modifications.

Put requests in writing, cite relevant medical notes if applicable, and propose a reasonable timeline for the work; follow up if you don't hear back in a few weeks.

Legal Protections for Tenants

The Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms protects tenants from discrimination. Further, the Tribunal administratif du logement resolves disputes between landlords and tenants, including those involving accessibility issues.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

If you contact a public body or a clinic for advice, ask for language support or accessibility accommodations and keep a record of whom you spoke with and when. If you face retaliation, report it to CDPDJ and the tribunal promptly.
  1. What should I do if I encounter discrimination when renting?
    File a complaint with the CDPDJ and document your experience with any supporting evidence.
  2. Can my landlord refuse my request for accessibility modifications?
    Landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.
  3. Where can I get support for accessibility issues?
    Contact the Tribunal administratif du logement for legal assistance and dispute resolution.

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Marie Dubois
Marie Dubois

Bilingual Housing Rights Advisor, Tenant Rights Canada

Marie covers tenant rights across Quebec and the Atlantic provinces in both English and French. With a background in Quebec civil law and residential tenancy, she is a trusted voice on the Tribunal administratif du logement process and francophone tenant rights.

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