Top 50 Questions: Maintenance & Repairs for Quebec Tenants

Maintenance & Repairs Quebec published June 26, 2025 Flag of Quebec
Who is responsible for repairs in a Quebec rental?
Landlords must maintain the property in good habitable condition; tenants must keep it clean and notify about problems.
What repairs must my landlord do?
Landlords must fix anything that affects safety, health, or normal use, like heating, plumbing, and appliances.
What repairs are tenants responsible for?
Tenants are responsible for repairing damage they cause and doing regular cleaning.
How do I request a repair from my landlord?
Notify your landlord in writing (email or letter), clearly stating the problem and requested repair.
What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
If the landlord does not act, you can file a complaint at the Tribunal administratif du logement (Rental Board).
How quickly must landlords make repairs?
Repairs affecting health or safety should be done as soon as possible; timelines depend on urgency.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord won't do repairs?
No, you must still pay rent. Only the Tribunal can authorize rent reduction or payment to another party.
Can I do the repairs myself and deduct the cost?
Only if you have written Tribunal approval; otherwise, you risk not being reimbursed.
Which form do I use to file a repair complaint in Quebec?
Use the "Application to the Tribunal administratif du logement" form (official source), file for repair orders or rent reduction.
Do I need proof of the repair problem?
Yes, take photos, keep all written requests, and record the problem and attempts to fix it.
What is the Tribunal administratif du logement?
The Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) is the rental board that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants in Quebec.
Visit the Tribunal
What law governs rental repairs in Quebec?
The Civil Code of Québec, Book Five – Article 1854 to 1918, covers landlord and tenant repair obligations.
Can my rent be reduced due to lack of repairs?
Yes, the Tribunal can order a rent reduction if lack of repairs seriously affects enjoyment of the unit.
What types of repairs must be done urgently?
Repairs for heat, plumbing, water leaks, and anything affecting safety or essential services must be done quickly.
Should my landlord give notice before entering for repairs?
Yes, except in emergencies, landlords must give at least 24-hour written notice before entering.
Can my landlord ask me to pay for repairs?
Only if you caused the damage; otherwise, they pay for normal wear-and-tear repairs.
What if the repair disrupts my living (like no heating in winter)?
If essential services are lost, contact the landlord immediately and file an urgent application with the Tribunal if unresolved.
Can my landlord evict me for requesting repairs?
No, it's illegal to retaliate against tenants for asserting their rights to repairs.
Are there deadlines for the landlord to respond to repair requests?
No fixed deadlines, but prompt response is required. Urgent repairs must be addressed quickly.
Can I contact city inspectors if repairs are not made?
Yes, you may contact your municipal housing inspector for health or safety issues.
Does the landlord have to provide pest control?
Yes, landlords are responsible for pest control unless the infestation was caused by the tenant's actions.
Is mould the landlord's responsibility?
Yes, landlords must fix mould caused by building issues, but tenants must report it and ventilate properly.
What if an appliance provided by the landlord breaks?
The landlord must repair or replace defective appliances included in your lease.
Do repair requests need to be in writing?
Yes, written requests are best for record-keeping and may be required by the Tribunal.
Can a landlord enter without my permission for repairs?
Only in emergencies; otherwise, 24-hour notice is required.
What happens if repairs make the place unlivable?
You may apply to the Tribunal for rent reduction or to terminate the lease if the unit is uninhabitable.
Can I break my lease due to unaddressed repairs?
You can apply to the Tribunal for termination if the landlord hasn't fixed serious issues.
How do I prove the landlord is not fixing things?
Keep all written communication, photos, inspection reports, and witness statements.
Am I responsible for repairs from normal wear and tear?
No, only damage caused by you or your guests must be repaired by you.
Do I need landlord permission for minor repairs?
Yes, unless it's an emergency; always get written consent for non-urgent repairs.
If repairs are urgent, can I demand immediate attention?
Yes, health and safety issues require urgent landlord response.
Do landlords have to provide heat in winter?
Yes, landlords must maintain minimum temperature standards in winter months.
Can I call emergency services if there is immediate danger?
Yes, if there is a fire, gas leak, flood, or any immediate threat, call emergency services first.
What can I do if landlord refuses to repair unsafe electrical outlets?
Document the issue, request repairs, and apply to the Tribunal if the landlord ignores your request.
Does the landlord have to repaint the apartment?
Not automatically, but they must keep surfaces in good condition and repair damaged paint.
Are windows and doors the landlord's responsibility?
Yes, unless the tenant damaged them. The landlord must ensure they are functional and safe.
Are common areas included in maintenance?
Yes, landlords must keep hallways, stairs, and shared areas in good and safe condition.
Are smoke detectors the landlord's responsibility?
Landlords must install and maintain smoke detectors; tenants should not disable them.
Can my landlord raise rent to cover repair costs?
Only with proper notice and an approved rent increase at lease renewal, not during a fixed term.
What if I can’t use part of my apartment due to repairs?
You may ask for a proportionate rent reduction; apply to the Tribunal if the landlord doesn't agree.
How do I prepare for a Tribunal hearing about repairs?
Gather all written correspondence, proof of issues, photos, and witness statements to support your case.
Can a landlord ask me to move during major repairs?
Only if absolutely necessary; the landlord may need to compensate you for moving or hotel costs.
Do landlords have to give notice for scheduled repairs?
Yes, they must provide at least 24-hour advance notice for non-urgent repairs.
Can I change locks if repairs are not done?
No, not without landlord permission. Lock changes may violate your lease terms.
Are balcony and exterior repairs my responsibility?
No, those are usually landlord responsibilities unless you caused damage.
Can the landlord make repairs during COVID-19 or other emergencies?
Yes, but all health measures must be respected.
What if repairs are needed during my absence?
Advise the landlord and agree on a time; they may enter with notice for urgent repairs.
Who pays for plumbing issues?
The landlord pays unless you caused the issue through misuse.
How do I report illegal landlord entries?
Document incidents and file a complaint to the Tribunal.
Can I be charged for late reporting of repairs?
If delays caused more damage, you may be responsible for extra costs.
Are hallway and elevator problems the landlord’s responsibility?
Yes, these are part of the building and must be maintained by the landlord.
Where do I find official forms for tenant complaints?
On the Tribunal administratif du logement forms page.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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