Is my landlord responsible for repairs in Quebec?

Yes. Under the Civil Code, the landlord must deliver the dwelling in good habitable condition and maintain it that way for the whole lease, including structure, heating, and plumbing. This can't be waived by a lease clause.

Can I make urgent repairs myself in Quebec?

Yes, for urgent and necessary repairs needed to keep the unit habitable, if you can't reach the landlord after reasonable attempts. Keep receipts and notify the landlord as soon as possible so you can be reimbursed for reasonable costs.

What if my Quebec landlord won't make repairs?

Request the repair in writing and keep records. If the landlord doesn't act, apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) for an order to complete the repairs, a rent reduction for the affected period, and damages where appropriate.

Can I withhold rent for repairs in Quebec?

It's risky to simply stop paying. Instead, document the problem and apply to the TAL, which can order repairs and reduce your rent for the period the unit wasn't up to standard, keeping you protected.

Home BlogLandlord Repairs in Quebec

QuebecSeptember 11, 20265 min read

Landlord Repairs & Maintenance in Quebec: Your Rights

In Quebec your landlord is legally bound to hand over a home in good condition and keep it that way. Here's what they must fix, what you can do yourself in an emergency, and how to make them act.

By the LeasePlain Editorial Team · Checked against Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act per our editorial standards·Last reviewed September 2026

The Landlord's Core Obligation

The Civil Code requires the landlord to deliver the dwelling in good habitable condition and to maintain it that way throughout the lease. This covers the structure, plumbing, heating, and anything needed for the unit to be fit to live in. A lease clause can't sign these duties away.

Urgent and Necessary Repairs

If an urgent and necessary repair is needed to keep the unit habitable — a burst pipe, no heat in winter — and you can't reach the landlord after reasonable attempts, you may carry out the repair yourself and be reimbursed for reasonable costs. Keep receipts and notify the landlord as soon as you can.

Report It in Writing

Always ask for repairs in writing and keep a copy, with dates and photos. A clear record is what wins at the tribunal if the landlord drags their feet.

Going to the TAL

If the landlord won't act, you can apply to the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) for an order forcing the repairs, a rent reduction for the period the unit fell short, and damages where appropriate. Don't just stop paying rent — use the tribunal so you stay protected.