When your building undergoes renovation in Quebec, it can be disruptive and stressful. As a tenant, you’re protected by laws that aim to balance your rights with necessary repairs or upgrades. This guide explains what you can expect, how to respond, and steps you can take to protect your home and well-being.

Quebec’s Tenant Protections During Renovations

Quebec law offers strong protections for tenants facing renovations, ensuring your home remains safe and you aren’t forced out unfairly. The body responsible for resolving rental disputes is the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

Your Right to Stay During Renovations

As a tenant, you generally cannot be evicted just because renovations are planned. If work is extensive (making your unit uninhabitable), the landlord may ask you to temporarily leave, but you have the right to return once it’s done.

• You may be entitled to compensation for moving and housing costs during major renovations.
• You must receive written notice of any project requiring you to temporarily leave, at least 10 days before the work starts.
• If asked to leave permanently for major construction (e.g., subdivision, substantially enlarging the building), the landlord must provide at least six months' written notice before your lease ends and offer you compensation.

For more on general responsibilities and obligations, check out our page on Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Notices and Official Forms

Quebec landlords must provide official written notice before major renovations that could affect your ability to enjoy your rental. Here are common official forms:

• Notice to Evict for Repossession or Eviction Due to Major Changes (Form TAL-1717): Used when a landlord seeks to repossess or evict for major work. You’ll receive this if the project is significant enough to warrant eviction.
  Get the official form here.
• Tenant's Objection to Eviction (No. not required): If you disagree with the landlord’s notice, you must respond in writing within one month of receiving the notice. You can use a simple registered letter or the form, and you can also apply to the TAL for a decision.
  Learn about your objection rights and forms.

Example: If your landlord delivers a notice stating the building will be gutted, and you must vacate for two months, you can respond in writing to dispute, negotiate compensation, or request accommodation to return.

How Renovations Must Be Conducted

Work must be performed in a way that minimizes inconvenience to tenants. Quebec’s Civil Code of Quebec and the TAL regulations require landlords to ensure safety and maintain habitability standards during construction.

• If your health or safety is compromised (dust, chemicals, noise, unsafe access), ask for reasonable accommodations or file a complaint with TAL.
• You are not required to allow access at all hours. Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ notice to enter, except in emergencies.

To understand your broader options during emergency repairs, see our guide on Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Health, Safety, and Compensation

Your landlord is responsible for ensuring work does not put your health or security at risk during renovations. If standards are not met, you have the right to:

• Request improvements or protective measures (e.g., dust barriers, safe walkways)
• Seek rent reduction if part of your apartment is unusable
• File a complaint with the TAL if you suffer loss or inconvenience due to the work

For more on your rights around health, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Tip: Document all communications and keep photo evidence of renovation impacts during your tenancy.

Compensation for Temporary Relocation

If you must vacate temporarily, you are typically entitled to:

• The moving and storage costs of your furniture
• Alternative accommodation costs (the landlord may arrange this or reimburse you)
• The right to return to your home once renovations are finished

Learn more about your rights as a Quebec tenant on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

What to Do if Renovations Disrupt Your Tenancy

If your enjoyment of your unit is interfered with, take these steps:

• First, raise your concerns directly with your landlord in writing.
• If unresolved, gather documentation (photos, copies of notices, receipts for any costs).
• File a complaint or compensation claim with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

If you’re seeking a new place while work is ongoing, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Tenant Rights During Renovation in Quebec

1. Do I have to leave my apartment during renovations?
   Generally, you can stay unless the work makes it uninhabitable. In that case, you are entitled to written notice and usually a right to return.
2. Am I entitled to compensation if required to leave?
   Yes. For major renovations requiring you to vacate, landlords must typically cover your moving, storage, and alternative accommodation costs.
3. What notice must my landlord give before starting renovations?
   At least 10 days’ written notice is required before any work that could affect your living conditions. For major work leading to eviction, at least 6 months’ notice before lease end is needed.
4. Can my landlord increase my rent after renovations?
   Rent can only be increased at renewal, following strict rules. Any increase must comply with regulations and can be contested at the TAL.
5. Where do I go for help if my landlord isn’t respecting my rights?
   File a complaint with the TAL or contact a local tenant advocacy group for guidance.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your right to remain or return after renovations is protected in Quebec law.
• You must receive formal advance notice; respond in writing if you disagree or have questions.
• If you’re required to leave, you’re entitled to fair compensation and relocation assistance.

Stay informed and document all interactions with your landlord during building renovations to protect your rights and peace of mind.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official site for forms, rights, and dispute resolution.
• Quebec government on housing laws: Tenants’ Rights & Obligations (Gouvernement du Québec)
• Local Legal Aid: Commission des services juridiques

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1. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)
2. Civil Code of Quebec – Lease of Dwellings
3. TAL: Notices and Objections
4. Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec

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