Windows can be an unexpected hazard in rental homes with young children. If you rent in Quebec, you and your landlord have roles in preventing falls by ensuring windows are safe, installing guards where needed, and following building and safety rules. This guide explains tenant steps to request window guards, how to document safety concerns, when landlords are obliged to act under Quebec law, and what to do if a repair or installation is refused. Practical examples help tenants communicate clearly, save records, and, when necessary, file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement. Use these plain-language steps to protect children while staying within your rental rights and responsibilities.
Quebec rules and who is responsible
In Quebec the Civil Code requires landlords to provide safe and habitable housing; building and construction standards also apply and municipal bylaws can add details. If a window presents a fall risk for a child, the landlord is generally responsible for removing the hazard or installing protective devices unless the lease or local code says otherwise. Tenants who believe the unit is unsafe can ask the landlord in writing and, if needed, apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement for an order.[1][2]
When landlords must act
- Landlords must correct hazards that affect tenant safety, such as unsecured windows that could cause a fall.
- When a building's construction code or a municipal bylaw requires guards or limiting devices, the landlord must comply.
- Landlords should respond to a written tenant request within a reasonable time and set clear deadlines for work.
How tenants should request window guards
Start with a clear written request so you have a record. Describe the hazard, suggest a reasonable deadline for action, and offer access times for installation. If the landlord refuses or delays, document all contacts and consider filing an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement for a remedy.[1]
- Send a dated written notice describing the hazard and the remedy you seek, and keep a copy.
- Keep photos, emails, and notes of conversations as evidence you requested the repair or installation.
- Ask for action within a clear timeframe (for example, within 10 days) so you can measure delay.
For background on safety duties and habitability see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and for a clear summary of mutual responsibilities consult Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. If you are also looking for rental listings while you research safe units, try Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for citywide searches.
FAQ
- Do landlords have to install window guards for children?
- Not always automatically, but landlords must address hazards and follow construction/municipal rules; tenants should request guards in writing and may apply to the Tribunal if the landlord refuses.[1]
- Can I install a window guard myself?
- You can propose a safe, non-damaging installation but must get landlord permission if it alters the unit; document any agreement in writing to avoid disputes.
- What if the landlord ignores my written request?
- If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, you can file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement asking for an order to make the repair or installation.[1]
How-To
- Identify and reduce immediate risk: move furniture from windows and install temporary window stops or restrictors until a guard is installed.
- Send a written notice to your landlord describing the risk and the remedy you seek, and keep a dated copy.
- Allow a reasonable period for the landlord to act (state a deadline such as within 10 days) and keep records of any response or lack of response.
- If the landlord refuses or ignores the request, file an application with the Tribunal administratif du logement and attach your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants and landlords share responsibility for safety; landlords must fix hazards that affect habitability.
- Always make requests in writing, set clear timelines, and keep photos and records as evidence.
- If repairs are refused, you can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement with your documentation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Tribunal administratif du logement (applications and procedures)
- Régie du bâtiment du Québec (construction and safety standards)
- Quebec Government — Housing information and tenant resources
