What to Document When Moving In or Out as a Tenant in Quebec

Moving into or out of a rental property in Quebec can be exciting, but it also involves important steps to safeguard your rights as a tenant. Whether you’re just arriving or preparing to leave, creating thorough documentation protects you in case of disputes about repairs, cleanliness, or damage. This step-by-step guide explains what to document, which forms may apply, and how to make the process smoother under Quebec’s tenancy laws.

Why Is Documentation Important for Tenants in Quebec?

Careful documentation is your best protection if a disagreement arises about the condition of your rental at move-in or move-out. Quebec’s housing laws require both tenants and landlords to act in good faith, and written or photographic records help prove the facts in case of a serious dispute.

What to Record When You Move In

Start by methodically assessing the unit as soon as you get your keys. Focus on details that could become controversial later, such as pre-existing damages or issues with cleanliness.

• Photograph Each Room: Take clear, timestamped photos of walls, floors, appliances, fixtures, windows, and doors.
• Note Imperfections: Make a list describing scratches, stains, dents, or damage—however minor. Don’t forget exterior areas like balconies or parking spaces.
• Test Functions: Ensure smoke detectors, locks, heating/cooling, faucets, toilets, and appliances work. Note issues in writing.
• Document Cleanliness: If the apartment is not thoroughly clean when you take possession, record this with photos and text.
• Meter Readings: Record hydro or natural gas meter readings to avoid confusion during billing.

It’s a good idea to share your documented list and photos with your landlord as soon as possible. This can help avoid misunderstandings later. For more practical advice, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Initial Inspection Forms in Quebec

While there’s no mandatory government form for inspections in Quebec, you can create a joint inspection report (état des lieux) at move-in and move-out. Some landlords may use their own checklist.

If the landlord refuses to sign, simply send your photos and checklist in writing.

For a more detailed look at inspection checklists, explore Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

What to Document When Moving Out

Before leaving your unit, repeat a similar process:

• Take fresh, dated photos (after cleaning and minor repairs if possible)
• Check that all items and appliances are functional
• Record the condition of walls, floors, fixtures, and any furnished items
• Document the cleanliness and any items left behind
• Note final meter readings for utilities

Once again, consider conducting a joint move-out inspection with your landlord. This can help clarify the state of the premises and your responsibilities, and may impact whether you receive your deposit.

Forms and Official Procedures at Move-Out

Quebec does not require a formal “move-out” form, but you should:

• Give proper written notice of lease termination (see Tribunal administratif du logement for details and sample letters)
• Retain email records, sent registered mail, or use hand-delivered and signed communications

If there is a disagreement over damage or cleaning, you or your landlord can make a claim with the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

Tips to Protect Your Rights as a Tenant

• Keep all documentation (photos, inspection reports, correspondence) in a safe, easy-to-find place.
• Ensure all parties sign inspection reports or send your version formally even if the landlord refuses.
• Return all keys and request a written receipt.
• Ensure final bills for utilities are settled in your name.

For more guidance on moving out, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Special Considerations in Quebec

Unlike many provinces, Quebec generally prohibits security deposits except in specific lease types. If you paid a deposit, you may want to review Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Relevant Tribunal and Legislation

All disputes over rental conditions, deposits, or damages are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). The principal law is the Civil Code of Quebec, Book V, Title 1, Chapter 3: Lease of Residential Premises.

For a full overview, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to use a special government form to document the condition of my rental?
   No specific government form is required in Quebec, but a written, signed inspection checklist with dated photos is strongly recommended.
2. What if my landlord refuses to attend the inspection?
   Document everything yourself and send copies to your landlord by registered mail or another provable method. This protects you if a disagreement arises later.
3. Is a security deposit legal in Quebec?
   Generally, landlords in Quebec cannot request security deposits for residential leases, except in rare situations, such as certain furnished rentals.
4. What should I do if there are damages at move-out and I disagree with my landlord?
   If no agreement can be reached, you can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) to resolve the dispute.
5. Should I keep documentation after moving out?
   Yes, keep copies of your documentation and correspondence for at least 12 months after leaving in case issues arise later.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Quebec’s official board for rental disputes, information, and forms
• Civil Code of Quebec – Lease of Residential Premises
• Régie du logement du Québec (now TAL) - Tenant advocacy
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec – Plain-language overview

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1. Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL)
2. Civil Code of Quebec, Book V, Title 1, Chapter 3: Lease of Residential Premises

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