If you're renting a home in Quebec and your landlord wants to show your unit to prospective buyers or new tenants, it's important to know your rights. Quebec law protects your privacy but also allows landlords certain access to your rental. This guide explains what you can expect, important forms, and where you can turn for help.
Landlord Entry to Show a Rental Unit: The Basics
Landlords in Quebec may need to show your apartment to potential tenants or buyers, especially if your lease is ending or if the property is being sold. However, your rights as a tenant are protected under Quebec’s Civil Code of Québec[1].
- Written or Verbal Notice: Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before showing your unit.
- Reasonable Hours Only: Showings must take place between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., and never on holidays unless you allow it.
- Privacy Protection: Landlords must respect your privacy and cannot abuse their right to access your home.
Showings are most common near the end of a lease or if the landlord is planning to sell the property.
Your Right to Privacy and Quiet Enjoyment
You are entitled to "peaceable enjoyment" of your rental home. This means landlords can’t show your apartment at all hours or disrupt your daily life excessively. Reasonable efforts should be made to coordinate visits at times that suit both parties. If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice or at unreasonable times, you can remind them of your rights or escalate the issue.
What Notice Must the Landlord Give?
The law in Quebec is clear: a landlord must give you advance notice—at least 24 hours—before any visit. The notice can be verbal or in writing, but written notice helps avoid misunderstandings. You do not have to be home during the visit, but you are allowed to be present if you wish.
How Often Can Showings Happen?
There is no strict limit on the number of showings, but the number must be reasonable. For example, scheduling multiple visits per day for weeks on end could be considered excessive and a violation of your right to peaceable enjoyment.
Relevant Forms and Procedures for Tenants
- Complaint Application (Application to the TAL – Tribunal administratif du logement): If your landlord is not respecting the entry rules, you can file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). This is the main dispute resolution body for residential tenancies in Quebec.
To make a complaint:
- Form Name: Application (Demande) - No fixed form number.
- Where to get it: Download directly from the official TAL website.
- When to use: If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice, at unreasonable hours, or otherwise violates your privacy.
You can find a step-by-step filing process in the "How To" section at the end of this article.
What to Do if There’s a Dispute
If you and your landlord disagree about showings or privacy, try to work it out calmly and in writing if possible. If the issue continues:
- Document each incident (date, time, nature of the entry, any proof like messages).
- Contact the Tribunal administratif du logement for guidance or to file a complaint.
- Consider seeking support from tenant rights organizations.
Lease-Related Considerations
If you’re at the end of your lease or planning to move, review your obligations and rights about showing the unit. The process is often covered in your lease and in Quebec law. For more on lease renewals and moving out, see Lease Renewals: What Tenants Should Know About Their Rights.
For a full overview of tenant and landlord obligations in Quebec, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.
To see available rentals and avoid housing stress, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada on Houseme.
- Do I have to allow showings at any time?
No. In Quebec, landlords can only schedule showings between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. and must give at least 24 hours’ notice. You can request a different time if the proposed time is unreasonable for you. - Can my landlord show my apartment if I am not home?
Yes, with proper notice, your landlord can enter even if you are not home. However, you have the right to be present if you wish. - What if my landlord comes without notice?
If your landlord enters without proper notice, remind them of your rights. If it keeps happening, document the incidents and consider filing a complaint with the Tribunal administratif du logement. - Can I refuse all showings?
No. If your landlord follows the notice and timing rules, you generally cannot refuse reasonable showings. Unreasonable refusal may result in consequences at the TAL. - How can I file a complaint about privacy breaches?
You can use the Application form from the TAL and submit details, supporting documentation, and any relevant evidence.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Quebec Tenants
- Landlords can show your unit with 24 hours’ notice and only during reasonable hours.
- Your right to privacy and peaceful enjoyment is legally protected.
- If issues arise, document everything and use the TAL process for support.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Official tribunal for Quebec tenancy matters: forms, information, and online services.
- Quebec Lease Obligations and Tenant Rights overview: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec
- Legal aid for tenants: Éducaloi (educaloi.qc.ca) – Plain language legal info (not legal advice).
- Other disputes or questions? Local housing committees (comités logement) can provide advocacy and support.
