Top 5 Tenant Rights on Discrimination & Accessibility in Quebec

Every tenant in Quebec has the right to be treated fairly when renting a home. Discrimination and accessibility issues are not only important social matters—they are protected by law. Whether you’re searching for a new place, renewing your lease, or already moved in, understanding how Quebec protects renters from discrimination (and your rights if you need accommodations) helps you build a secure tenancy.

What You Need to Know: Discrimination & Accessibility Protections

In Quebec, both the Act respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal and the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms offer protections for tenants. The Administrative Housing Tribunal (Tribunal administratif du logement, TAL) enforces tenancy law and hears complaints about discrimination or accommodation requests.^[1]

1. Quebec Law Prohibits Rental Discrimination

Landlords in Quebec cannot refuse to rent to you or treat you differently because of personal characteristics such as:

• Race, colour, or ethnic origin
• Religion or beliefs
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Family status (having children, pregnancy)
• Age
• Disability
• Social condition (income source, e.g., welfare, student loan)

This means rental ads or landlord questions about your background, religion, or how you pay rent may be illegal if used to deny you housing.

2. Accommodations for Disabilities & Accessibility

If you have a disability, landlords must offer reasonable accommodations in rental housing. This could mean allowing a service animal, accessible parking, or minor adjustments to your unit. However, the request must not cause undue hardship (such as major structural changes or unsafe conditions).

Tenants experiencing accessibility issues are protected. If your request is denied, you can file a discrimination complaint. It’s important to suggest practical, clear solutions when making requests.

3. Applying for a Rental: Income Source and Family Status

Quebec law says landlords cannot refuse applicants based on their income source (social assistance, student bursaries, pensions, etc.) or family status (pregnancy, children). If you believe your rental application was declined for these reasons, you may have grounds for a discrimination complaint.

Tip: Keep written records (emails, messages) of all rental communications with landlords or property managers. They can help if you need to prove discrimination later.

4. Filing a Complaint: How to Take Action

If you suspect discrimination or denial of an accessibility request, you have options:

• File a complaint with the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ).
• Apply to the Administrative Housing Tribunal (TAL) for urgent matters or to claim damages.

Form to Use: "Application to the Tribunal – Discrimination, Harassment and Reprisal" (TAL-053A). Use it if your landlord or another tenant has discriminated against you or denied accommodation. Official form and instructions.

Practical example: If a landlord refused to rent to you after learning you receive social assistance, fill out TAL-053A, include evidence (emails, text messages), and file it with the TAL online or in person.

5. Accessibility and Your Unit During Tenancy

If a disability develops after you’ve moved in, you can still request reasonable modifications or accommodations. It’s best to make your request in writing, clearly outlining your needs. The landlord should promptly respond; if not, further action with the TAL or CDPDJ can be taken.

Related Protections for Quebec Tenants

• Tenants and landlords both have clear responsibilities. See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
• General tenant and landlord rights are outlined at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Learn more about your legal standing and what to expect after signing a lease at What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

FAQ: Discrimination & Accessibility for Quebec Tenants

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children or I’m pregnant?
   No, family status (including pregnancy and having children) is a protected ground under Quebec law. You can file a complaint if you face this type of discrimination.
2. What if my landlord won’t allow small accessibility changes to my apartment?
   If the change is reasonable and doesn’t create major costs or safety issues, your landlord generally must accommodate. Try making your request in writing. If denied, apply to the TAL or file a complaint with the CDPDJ.
3. Do I need proof to support a discrimination complaint?
   Yes. Keep all communications with your landlord. Emails, messages, or witness statements can help prove your case.
4. What are some examples of reasonable accommodations?
   Examples include installing grab bars, providing accessible parking, allowing a service animal, or changing parking arrangements.
5. What if discrimination happens after I've moved in?
   You can still file a complaint—protection applies at all tenancy stages.

How To: Address Discrimination or Accessibility Issues

1. How do I make a request for accommodation from my landlord?
   Write your landlord a formal letter or email clearly describing your needs and suggested solutions. Keep a copy for your records.
2. How do I file a discrimination complaint with the TAL?
   Complete Form TAL-053A and submit it with your supporting documents to the TAL, either online or in person. Guidance is available on the TAL’s official website.
3. How do I apply to the CDPDJ?
   Submit your case via their online complaint portal. Include dates, documentation, and details of what happened.

Key Takeaways

• Quebec protects tenants from discrimination and ensures accessibility in rental housing.
• Requests for accommodation should be clear and in writing—landlords must respond appropriately.
• Formal complaints can be filed with the CDPDJ or the Administrative Housing Tribunal if issues arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Administrative Housing Tribunal (Tribunal administratif du logement) – file complaints, get forms, and learn about your rights.
• Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) – discrimination complaints and advice.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec – quick facts and legal basics for Quebec tenants.

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1. [1] Quebec tenancy law: See Act respecting the Administrative Housing Tribunal and Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms

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