Giving notice to end your rental in Quebec is an important milestone for any tenant. Whether your fixed-term lease is ending or you're leaving a month-to-month agreement, understanding the steps and legal rights that follow helps ensure you have a hassle-free move. This article clarifies what happens after you submit your official notice, which forms to use, timelines to expect, and how to protect your rights as a tenant.

Key Steps After Giving Notice in Quebec

Once you've delivered written notice to your landlord to end your lease, several important events and obligations follow. Here's a summary before we explore each part in detail:

• Notice period starts — your lease ends on the date specified in your notice if you gave proper advance notice.
• Landlord may show the unit to prospective tenants.
• Cleaning, repairs, and moving preparations begin.
• Final inspection is arranged.
• Security deposit (if held) and final settlement occur after move-out.

1. Notice Period and Timelines

Quebec law requires that tenants give proper written notice to end a lease. For a typical fixed-term lease, notice must be provided at least three to six months before the end date, depending on your lease length. For an open-ended (indeterminate) lease, it's one to two months based on how often you pay rent. Refer to the Quebec government guide on lease termination for full notice requirements.^[1]

2. Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

During the notice period and up to your move-out, both you and your landlord have specific rights and obligations. You remain responsible for:

• Paying rent in full until the lease end date
• Maintaining the unit and keeping it clean
• Allowing reasonable access for landlord showings (24-hour notice is required)

Landlords may begin searching for new tenants. For more about both parties' roles, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

3. The Official Tribunal and Relevant Legislation

All disputes or formal procedures about lease terminations in Quebec are managed by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). TAL is the provincial authority on residential leases, and its procedures are governed by the Quebec Civil Code – Lease of Dwelling.^[2]

4. Forms and Essential Steps

• Notice of Lease Non-Renewal (Notice of Non-Renewal or Termination)
  • This is a written letter or the official TAL form (Form TAL-NT) given to your landlord with all required information: your name, address, intention to end, and the date of termination.
  • Access TAL forms for tenants
  • Action Example: A tenant in a one-year lease ending June 30 must send this form no later than March 31. The tenant keeps a copy as proof.
• Agreement on Moving Date or Final Inspection
  • This is usually arranged informally, but TAL provides a template if needed. A walkthrough helps avoid any disputes about property condition.
  • For details on the inspection, see The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

5. What Happens Before and After Move-Out?

With your notice submitted, here’s what to expect:

• Showings: Your landlord can show your unit to new tenants or buyers between 9 am–9 pm with proper notice, but must respect your privacy.
• Cleaning/Repairs: Clean your unit and repair damages (except normal wear and tear) to avoid deductions from your deposit or possible claims.
• Final Inspection: Arrange a joint walk-through with the landlord to document the unit’s condition at move-out. This protects you from false damage claims.
• Deposit Return: Quebec law does not permit landlords to require a traditional damage deposit. However, if you paid for keys or similar items, they must be returned or refunded appropriately. For details, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

6. Discrimination and Accessibility

After you give notice, your landlord cannot refuse to allow reasonable accommodations related to accessibility/assistive devices during showings or moving. If you feel treated unfairly, contact the Quebec Human Rights and Youth Rights Commission.

For more about your rights as a tenant in Quebec, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec.

Want to easily compare rental options for your next move? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and see the latest apartments, houses, and condos available in your area.

FAQs: Ending Your Quebec Tenancy

1. What if my landlord wants to show the unit every day?
   Landlords can only show your unit at reasonable times (usually 9 am–9 pm) and must provide at least 24 hours’ advance notice for each visit. You have the right to request reasonable limits if showings become disruptive.
2. Can I withdraw my notice after giving it?
   Once you give notice, it is generally binding. If you need to stay, talk to your landlord immediately and put any agreement in writing. Otherwise, you may need to negotiate a new lease.
3. Does my landlord have to do a final inspection?
   While not strictly required by law, a final inspection is highly recommended. It protects both you and your landlord from disputes about damages or cleaning.
4. What if I need to leave before my notice period ends?
   You may be responsible for rent until the end of your notice period unless you reach a mutual agreement or assign/sublet your lease with consent. Learn more in What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.
5. Can my landlord refuse to accept my notice?
   No. If you have given notice in writing and within the required time frame, your landlord must accept it. If there is a dispute, contact the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Quebec Tenants

• Submit your official notice using the correct form and timeline for your lease type.
• Keep records of all communications and consider a final inspection to avoid disputes.
• Your landlord may show your unit with proper notice, but you keep your rights and privacy.

Following Quebec's rules on ending a tenancy helps you avoid legal or financial problems during your move.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) — tenancy rules, forms, and tenant help line
• RCLALQ (Quebec Leaseholders' Association) — tenant advocacy, guides, and sample letters
• Quebec Human Rights and Youth Rights Commission — help with discrimination or accessibility issues
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Quebec

---

1. Quebec government — Ending a residential lease
2. Civil Code of Quebec: Lease of Dwelling, Articles 1851–2000

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy