Top 50 Questions: Rent & Deposits for Quebec Tenants

Rent & Deposits Quebec published June 26, 2025 Flag of Quebec
How much can my landlord increase my rent each year in Quebec?
Landlords and tenants can agree on an increase, but if tenants refuse, landlords must apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL); Quebec does not have a fixed rent increase guideline.
Can my landlord ask for a security deposit in Quebec?
No, security deposits are prohibited by law in Quebec.
Is a key deposit allowed in Quebec?
Only refundable key deposits are permitted, and only in the amount equal to the cost of replacing the key.
Can my landlord require first and last month’s rent in advance?
No, only the first month’s rent can be required before moving in.
How do I contest a rent increase?
Notify your landlord in writing if you refuse the increase; the landlord must then apply for a rent adjustment at TAL. See Formulaire Requête for details.
What legal forms are used for rent adjustment disputes?
Use “Formulaire - Demande (Requête)” from TAL to request a rent adjustment. Get the form here.
Do I have to accept a rent increase?
No, you may refuse in writing within one month of receiving the notice; the landlord can then apply to TAL.
How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
At least three months before your lease ends for annual leases.
What happens if I don’t reply to a rent increase notice?
If you don’t refuse in writing within one month, the increase is considered accepted.
Can my landlord charge late fees if I pay rent late?
No, late fees are not allowed, but interest at the legal rate may be charged on overdue rent.
Is my landlord allowed to ask for post-dated cheques?
No, landlords cannot require post-dated cheques or pre-authorized payments.
Can my landlord increase rent during a fixed-term lease?
No, increases can only take effect at lease renewal unless otherwise agreed.
When is rent due in Quebec?
Rent is due on the first day of each month, unless your lease states otherwise.
What if my landlord wants to collect rent in cash only?
You can request a different payment method and must always get a receipt for your payment.
Should I get a rent receipt after each payment?
Yes, you have the right to request a written receipt every time you make a payment.
Can my landlord ask for a cleaning or pet deposit?
No, all additional deposits except for refundable keys are prohibited.
What should I do if my landlord refuses to return my key deposit?
Ask for the amount owed in writing; if refused, you may file a claim with TAL.
Can the rent be increased by any amount the landlord wants?
No, increases must be justified; tenants can contest and TAL will decide if the increase is fair.
Do I have to pay rent if my apartment is uninhabitable?
If the apartment is uninhabitable, you may apply to TAL to reduce or suspend rent.
Can I refuse a rent increase and still stay in my apartment?
Yes, as long as you properly refuse in writing, your lease continues under current terms until TAL decides.
How far in advance can my landlord request a rent increase?
At least three months before lease end for yearly leases; for shorter leases, one to two months’ notice may apply.
Can my landlord evict me for refusing a rent increase?
No, you cannot be evicted just for refusing; only TAL can authorize rent changes or eviction.
If my landlord charges me an illegal deposit, what can I do?
Request a refund in writing; if the landlord refuses, file a claim at the TAL.
Is rent still due if repairs are not made?
Yes, rent remains due, but you may apply to TAL for rent reduction or order for repairs.
Can I pay my rent in installments?
Only if agreed in writing with your landlord; otherwise, rent is due monthly or as per lease.
Does my lease have to be in writing?
Yes, residential leases in Quebec must be in writing and use the mandatory lease form.
Where can I get the official lease form?
The mandatory “Quebec Residential Lease” is available here.
Can my landlord increase rent more than once per year?
No, rent can only be increased at the time of lease renewal unless otherwise agreed.
If I pay rent late, can I be evicted immediately?
No, but repeated late payments can be grounds for eviction after notice and a TAL decision.
What proof of payment should I keep?
Keep all receipts, bank statements, or other documentation of rent payments.
Can the landlord require automatic debit for rent?
No, landlords cannot require automatic payments or post-dated cheques.
If I sublet, can the subtenant be charged a deposit?
No, the same rules about deposits apply to subleases.
How do I file a rent deposit complaint?
File a complaint at TAL using their Demande (Requête) form.
What if my landlord increases rent without notice?
You do not have to pay the increase; make written objection and contact TAL if necessary.
Can rent be paid in a different currency?
No, rent must be paid in Canadian dollars unless your lease states otherwise.
Are deposits ever deducted for damages?
No, since deposits (except keys) are not legal. You’re responsible for damages but not via deposit.
If my landlord won’t give a rent receipt, what can I do?
Request again in writing; if refused, file a complaint with TAL for non-compliance.
Can my landlord ask for rent by e-transfer?
Yes, if both parties agree; you cannot be forced to use electronic payment.
Can rent be raised for new tenants after a lease transfer?
Only if the new tenant agrees or if TAL authorizes it after review.
Where can I learn if my rent increase is reasonable?
Use the TAL’s rent calculation tool here.
Do rent deposit rules change if I rent a room instead of an apartment?
No, the same deposit and rent rules apply to room rentals.
If I overpay rent, can I get the extra money back?
Yes, request a refund from your landlord; if refused, file a claim with TAL.
Are any deposits ever allowed for furnished apartments?
No, deposits for furnishings are not allowed. Only refundable key deposits are valid.
How long does it take to get a rent deposit complaint resolved?
Timeline varies, but decisions through TAL usually take a few months.
Can the rent increase be backdated?
No, rent increases cannot be retroactive.
If I move out, can my landlord keep my last month’s rent?
If you gave proper notice and paid all rent, no additional rent can be kept.
What legislation governs rent & deposits in Quebec?
The Civil Code of Québec (Code civil du Québec) governs all landlord-tenant matters.
What is TAL?
TAL is the Tribunal administratif du logement, Quebec’s official housing tribunal for landlord and tenant disputes.

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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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