What can a landlord ask for on a rental application in Quebec?
Rental applications in Quebec are governed by civil law and human rights protections that tightly restrict what landlords can request or use in screening decisions.This guide covers Quebec tenancy law only. For other provinces, see our [rental laws guides].
In Quebec, what a landlord can ask for on a rental application is governed by the Civil Code of Quebec and the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. Landlords can collect information to assess a prospective tenant's ability to pay rent, but strict anti-discrimination rules apply throughout the application process. Disputes are handled by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).
What Can a Landlord Ask For?
Quebec landlords can ask for full name and contact information, current and previous addresses and rental history, proof of income such as an employment letter or pay stubs, landlord and personal references, and consent to run a credit check, according to tenantrights.ca. They may ask for photo ID to verify identity and ask about the number of people who will live in the unit.
What Cannot a Landlord Ask For?
Landlords cannot ask questions that touch on protected grounds under the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. These include race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital or family status, and ethnicity, according to tenantrights.ca. Landlords cannot ask whether you plan to have children, what religion you practise, or whether you use a wheelchair. A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is not required. Full bank account numbers are not a permissible request, though proof of income is.
Can a Landlord Charge an Application Fee?
No. Under article 1904 of the Civil Code of Quebec, a landlord cannot require any amount from a prospective tenant other than rent. Application fees are not permitted.
Can a Landlord Refuse an Application?
Yes, based on legitimate criteria such as insufficient income or poor rental history. However, a landlord cannot refuse an application based on any protected ground under the Quebec Charter. Complaints can be filed with the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse.
What Can Tenants Do if Asked Improper Questions?
Tenants can decline to answer questions that touch on protected grounds without penalty. If you believe a landlord has discriminated against you during the application process, you can file a complaint with the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse.
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