Discovering your landlord is selling your rental unit can be stressful. As a tenant in Quebec, it’s important to understand your rights, what processes landlords must follow, and which actions you can take to protect yourself. This article answers your most pressing questions and helps you navigate a potential property sale.

What Does It Mean When a Landlord Sells a Rental in Quebec?

When a landlord sells a property in Quebec, your lease is not automatically cancelled. According to the Quebec Civil Code – Book Five, Section II (Lease of a dwelling), the new landlord takes over all existing lease agreements. This means:

• Your lease terms, including rent and conditions, remain unchanged.
• You cannot be evicted simply because the sale occurs.
• The new property owner must respect your tenant rights.

This legal protection applies even if you're renting month-to-month or on a fixed-term lease.

When Can a Tenant Be Asked to Leave After a Sale?

The only situation where a new owner can ask you to leave is if they, or a close family member, intend to move in — known as "repossession." Even then, strict rules and notice periods apply.

• The new landlord must provide formal written notice and meet legal criteria.
• Repossession cannot occur before the lease ends for fixed-term leases, and requires minimum six months’ notice before the end of the lease term. For indeterminate (open-ended) leases, six months’ notice is also required.
• The notice must specify who will occupy the dwelling and their relationship to the new owner.

If the proper process isn’t followed, tenants have legal grounds to contest the repossession with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

What Notices and Forms Apply?

• Notice of Repossession: Used when a new landlord wants to repossess for personal or family use. Tenants have one month to respond after receiving it.
• Application to the TAL: If you wish to contest a repossession or dispute any notice, you can apply using the "Application to the Tribunal administratif du logement" (Form: Available on TAL’s forms page).

Example: If you receive a Notice of Repossession in advance of your lease end, promptly respond in writing to the new landlord. If you disagree, apply to the TAL before the required response deadline.

What Happens to My Lease and My Rent?

Your lease and all its original conditions continue – only the landlord’s name changes. You must pay rent as usual, but send it to the new landlord once notified.

For more on your obligations during a property handover, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Moving Out Early, Transfers, and Subletting

If you don’t want to continue your lease after a property sale, Quebec law lets you transfer the lease to another person or sublet, provided you follow legal procedures. Always notify the landlord in writing and keep a record of their response. See official lease transfer/sublet forms on the TAL website for guidance.

Routine Living and Maintenance During a Sale

Your daily rights and the landlord’s duties do not change during the sale process. Repairs, maintenance, and access rules still apply. For a detailed explanation of who is responsible for repairs, read Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

If the landlord or their agent wishes to show the unit to potential buyers, you must be given reasonable notice (usually 24 hours) and all efforts should minimize disturbance to your normal life.

Special Notes for Tenants in Quebec

• Your deposits (if any) are protected: landlords cannot require damage deposits, but some exceptions exist for other fees.
• For more on provincial rules, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.
• You can Browse apartments for rent in Canada or find new rental homes if needed.

FAQ: Common Tenant Concerns When a Landlord Sells in Quebec

1. Can my rent be raised after the property is sold?
   No. The new landlord must follow the existing lease, and standard rules for rent increases apply.
2. Do I have to let the landlord show my apartment?
   Yes, but only with proper notice and at reasonable times. Your privacy must be respected.
3. What if I want to move out early because my landlord sold?
   Property sale alone isn’t a valid reason to break your lease, but you may transfer or sublet your lease. Always follow legal steps.
4. Who should I pay rent to after the sale?
   Wait for written notice from the new landlord before making changes. Always keep payment records.
5. What if I get an eviction notice after the property is sold?
   Only valid repossession for owner or family use is permitted and must follow strict notice rules. If you’re unsure, contact the TAL for guidance.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

• Your lease survives the sale – you cannot be evicted simply as a result.
• Repossession for personal or family use must follow protocols and written notice requirements.
• Always respond in writing, keep records, and know how to contact the TAL if you need help.

Quebec’s laws offer tenants strong protection during a property sale. If you take action promptly and follow proper steps, your rights are well protected.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL): The official body for all residential tenancy disputes in Quebec.
• Government of Quebec – Housing information for tenants
• For additional information on provincial rules: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec
• Find support and advocacy: Regroupement des comités logement et associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ)

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1. Civil Code of Quebec, Book Five — Lease of dwellings, accessible at: Quebec Civil Code – Lease sections
2. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), official forms and guides: TAL Forms
3. Government of Quebec – Rights and obligations of landlords and tenants: Official Information

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