Facing domestic violence is a deeply traumatic experience, and seeking safety should never be hindered by rental obligations. In Quebec, tenants have special rights and legal protections that allow them to terminate their lease early if they are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. This article explains these protections, the legal process, which forms to use, and what to expect when ending your lease for safety reasons.

Legal Protections for Tenants Experiencing Domestic Violence in Quebec

The Quebec government recognizes how important it is for tenants to find safety. If you or a dependent living with you are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, you may qualify for legal early lease termination under province-wide tenancy rules.

• Protections apply to both verbal and written leases
• Applies to private apartments, social housing, and subsidized units
• No penalty or damages are owed to your landlord if you follow the legal process

These rules help ensure tenants can put their safety first without fear of significant financial loss or legal retaliation.

What Does Domestic Violence Mean Under Quebec Law?

Domestic violence covers more than just physical harm. Under Quebec’s Civil Code, it includes:

• Physical abuse or threats
• Psychological or emotional abuse
• Sexual violence or assault
• Control, intimidation, or harassment by a spouse or ex-spouse

How to End a Lease Early for Domestic Violence in Quebec

The process is designed to protect your privacy and move quickly. Here’s what you need to know:

• Tenants must provide their landlord with an official notice and proof (explained below)
• Your lease ends two months after the landlord receives the notice and documents — in some cases, it can be less
• You do not need your abuser’s consent, even if they are on the lease

Official Forms: Notice of Early Lease Termination

To formally end your lease, submit the following to your landlord:

• Notice of Lease Termination Due to Domestic Violence (No official government form number. Some shelters or courts provide templates.)
• A written attestation (from a judge, peace officer, social worker, or healthcare professional) confirming the violence or assault

Where to Get the Attestation:

• From a criminal court following charges or a protection order
• From a police officer following an official complaint
• From a social worker, doctor, or nurse confirming you disclosed the situation

Read the official government guide and sample notice

Tenant Rights: What Happens After Submitting Your Notice?

Once you have submitted the documents, your lease generally ends two months later, but this may be shortened if your lease was already set to end earlier.

• You only pay rent until the effective end date
• You cannot be penalized or evicted for using these rights
• Your personal information and reasons cannot be disclosed by your landlord

For more on rights and responsibilities during and after your lease, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Practical Example: Ending a Lease Due to Domestic Violence

Sarah is a tenant in Montreal who experiences domestic violence from her partner. She meets with a social worker, who provides a written attestation. Sarah gives her landlord both the attestation and her written notice. Her lease ends two months after the documents are received, and Sarah is not required to pay rent or damages beyond that period.

Other Things to Consider When Ending Your Lease for Safety

Moving out under these circumstances can be stressful. Here’s what tenants often ask about:

• You may still be expected to leave the apartment in good condition. See How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant for guidance.
• If you have paid a deposit or last month’s rent, ensure you clarify return procedures with your landlord
• If children or dependents live with you, protections apply to their safety as well
• Changing locks or safety upgrades: These may be allowed — discuss with your landlord if needed

If you face challenges with moving out under these circumstances, you may find the What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires guide useful.

Your Rights Under Quebec's Housing Tribunal

Disputes related to lease termination for domestic violence (such as a landlord refusing to recognize your notice) are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Tenants can apply to the TAL if their landlord does not respect the early termination rules or violates their privacy.

The TAL enforces the protections found in Quebec's Civil Code of Quebec. These are updated regularly to prioritize tenant safety.¹

Tenants never have to prove violence to their landlord directly—attestation by a qualified professional is enough.

Summary of Your Legal Steps

• Get a professional attestation of violence or assault
• Deliver written notice plus attestation to your landlord
• Pay rent until two months after the landlord receives your documents
• Plan your move safely and seek support services if needed

For more housing options or to start fresh somewhere new, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can provide the attestation required to end my lease early?
   A judge, peace officer, healthcare professional, or social worker can provide written confirmation that you have disclosed domestic violence or sexual assault, which must accompany your notice to the landlord.
2. How quickly does my lease end after providing notice?
   Your lease generally ends two months after the landlord receives your notice and attestation, but it can be sooner if your lease was already ending.
3. Do I have to tell my landlord the details of my situation?
   No. You are only required to provide the official attestation and notice. The landlord cannot ask for additional information.
4. What if my landlord refuses my notice?
   You can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) for enforcement. The TAL can require the landlord to respect your rights or impose penalties for non-compliance.
5. Will this affect my ability to rent in the future?
   No. Ending your lease for domestic violence reasons does not give you a negative rental history or ‘blacklist’ you from future rentals.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Quebec law protects tenants experiencing domestic violence, allowing early lease termination without penalty when proper notice and evidence is given
• You do not need to disclose personal details to your landlord, and your privacy is protected by law
• The Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) will assist if there is any dispute or your rights are not respected

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): File a complaint or resolve rental disputes
• Government resources for victims of domestic violence
• Educaloi: Legal guidance on leaving a home due to violence
• Learn more about your rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec

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1. See Civil Code of Quebec Articles 1860.1-1860.5 (lease termination for safety or violence)
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) official website
3. Quebec government: Ending a lease for domestic violence

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