Top 50 Questions on Discrimination & Accessibility for Quebec Tenants

Discrimination & Accessibility Quebec published June 26, 2025 Flag of Quebec
What laws protect tenants from discrimination in Quebec?
The Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms and the Civil Code of Quebec prohibit discrimination in rental housing.
Who handles tenant complaints about discrimination in Quebec?
The Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) handles discrimination complaints.
What is considered discrimination by a landlord?
Refusing to rent, evicting, or treating someone unfairly due to race, disability, sexual orientation, age, family status, sex, or other protected grounds is discrimination.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to someone with a disability?
No. Refusing to rent to someone because of a disability is prohibited by law.
What can I do if my landlord discriminates against me?
You can file a complaint with the CDPDJ or seek recourse with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).
What is the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)?
The TAL (Tribunal administratif du logement) is the official tribunal handling rental disputes in Quebec.
Is it legal for a landlord to ask about my religion?
No, landlords cannot ask about or discriminate based on your religion.
Can a landlord refuse rent applications because of race or ethnicity?
No. It is illegal to refuse tenants because of race or ethnicity.
What are my rights as a tenant with a disability in Quebec?
You have the right to equal access, accommodation, and protection from discrimination under Quebec law.
Can a landlord refuse to install an accessibility feature?
Landlords must accommodate tenants up to the point of undue hardship and may be required to install features if reasonable.
What if my landlord says accessibility modifications are too expensive?
Landlords must provide accommodations unless it causes undue hardship, which must be proven.
Can a landlord evict me because I requested accommodations?
No, evicting for requesting reasonable accommodations is illegal discrimination.
What is a reasonable accommodation?
An adjustment or modification, like ramps or adapted smoke detectors, that enables equal use of the premises.
Do I need to provide medical proof for an accommodation request?
You may be asked for proof, such as a doctor’s note, to verify the need for accommodation.
Can a landlord ban service animals in Quebec housing?
No. Service animals are allowed, and banning them usually violates the law unless in rare justified situations.
What forms do I use to file a discrimination complaint?
Use the "Discrimination or Harassment Complaint Form" with the CDPDJ. Download the form here.
How do I request accommodations from my landlord?
Make your request in writing, describe what you need, and include supporting documents if possible.
Can a landlord prefer families over singles or vice versa?
No, discrimination based on family status is not allowed.
Can a landlord refuse me because I receive social assistance?
No. Refusing an applicant because of lawful source of income, like social assistance, is prohibited.
Can seniors be refused rental housing?
No, age-based discrimination is generally illegal for rental housing.
Can a landlord request my immigration status or SIN?
Landlords should not ask for your SIN unless necessary for credit checks, and cannot refuse based on immigration status.
Can a landlord restrict guests due to cultural background?
No. Guest rules must apply equally and not target culture or religion.
Are there protections for LGBTQ+ tenants?
Yes, sexual orientation and gender identity are protected grounds under Quebec law.
Can I be evicted for having children?
No, eviction because of children is discriminatory.
Can a landlord increase rent for accessibility modifications?
Only if agreed upon or approved by the TAL; unilateral increases due to modifications are not allowed.
What if another tenant harasses me due to disability or identity?
Report this to your landlord and, if unresolved, file a complaint with the CDPDJ.
Is ‘no pet’ policy enforceable against service animals?
No. Service animals are permitted even if pets are otherwise banned.
Are rental application forms allowed to ask about disabilities?
No, applications should not ask about disabilities or health issues.
Can a landlord refuse accommodation for allergies to service animals?
Allergies are considered, but service animal access usually takes priority unless it causes serious hardship.
Can a landlord require extra deposits for accessibility needs?
No. Charging extra for accessibility is not allowed unless approved by the TAL.
Are emotional support animals considered service animals in Quebec?
Emotional support animals may require special assessment; service animals for recognized disabilities are protected.
How long does a discrimination complaint take?
Processing times vary; the CDPDJ will provide updates after submission.
Can I directly apply to TAL for discrimination disputes?
Yes, especially if your housing or lease rights are affected.
Can my landlord refuse to rent because I do not speak French?
Language is generally not a protected ground, unless used as a pretext for discrimination.
What evidence do I need for a discrimination claim?
Keep copies of communications, refusal reasons, ads, and any witness statements.
Can landlord ask for credit history from all applicants?
Yes, if applied equally and not to unfairly target protected groups.
Does the law protect temporary or short-term tenants?
Yes, rental protections and anti-discrimination apply to most rental arrangements.
What can I do if my accommodation request is denied?
File a complaint with CDPDJ or apply to the TAL for recourse.
Can discrimination occur after signing a lease?
Yes, discrimination is illegal at any point in the tenant-landlord relationship.
Can housing ads state 'adults only'?
Generally no, unless the building qualifies as a seniors' residence under Quebec law.
Do I have to pay for accessibility upgrades?
No, unless otherwise negotiated and approved by the TAL.
Can a landlord limit children in an apartment?
No, limiting due to children is discrimination based on family status.
Can condo boards enforce discriminatory rules?
No. Condo corporations are subject to the same anti-discrimination laws as landlords.
What is undue hardship?
It’s a legal limit on how far a landlord must go to accommodate, such as very high cost or severe safety risks.
Can heritage buildings refuse accessibility changes?
Modifications may be restricted, but landlords must explore all reasonable options.
Are interpreter services available for filing complaints?
Yes. CDPDJ and TAL can provide language and accessibility support if requested.
What is the main law protecting tenants against discrimination?
The Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms and relevant articles in the Civil Code of Quebec.
Where can I learn more about my rights?
Visit the TAL and CDPDJ websites.

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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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