Tenant Eviction in Quebec: What Landlords Need to Know in 2025

What Is an Eviction Under Quebec Law?

Tenant eviction is a legal process governed by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). It allows a landlord to terminate a lease for specific reasons defined by law.

Eviction cannot be done arbitrarily. It must be based on valid legal grounds and follow a strict procedure.

Eviction vs. Repossession: Two Distinct Processes

It’s important to distinguish between repossession and eviction:

• Repossession allows a landlord to reclaim a unit to live in it themselves or to house a close family member (e.g., child, parent).
• Eviction, on the other hand, is used when a landlord wants to permanently transform the unit—for example, for a real estate project, a change of use, or a major expansion.

Both processes require compliance with specific timelines and, in some cases, compensation to the tenant.

Grounds for Eviction Before the 2024 Moratorium

Before Bill 31 and the 2024 moratorium, landlords could evict tenants for reasons such as:

• Subdivision of the unit into multiple dwellings
• Substantial enlargement involving major renovations
• Change of use, such as converting a residential unit into a commercial space
• Demolition of the building or a significant part of it 

In all cases, the eviction had to be supported by concrete documentation or a real project, and a written notice had to be given to the tenant (typically at least six months before the lease ends)

Eviction Rules Under Bill 31 and the Moratorium

Adopted in February 2024, Bill 31 introduced major changes to housing regulations in Quebec. One of the most significant: a three-year moratorium on certain types of evictions, effective June 6, 2024.

This government measure aims to slow the rapid transformation of the rental housing stock, especially in major urban centers. By tightening eviction rules,Bill 31 seeks to protect affordable housing and curb practices that contribute to the housing shortage.

During the moratorium, landlords cannot evict tenants for the following reasons:

• Subdivision of the unit 
• Substantial enlargement
• Change of use (e.g., converting to commercial or office space)

Some evictions or lease terminations are still allowed if they meet legal conditions:

• Repossession for the landlord or an immediate family member
• Demolition of the building, with proper permits
• Lease termination for serious reasons: non-payment, misuse, major disturbances, etc.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial to avoid rejection or legal challenges before the Tribunal administratif du logement. Always ensure your project complies with the current legal framework before proceeding.

Legal Procedure for Evicting a Tenant

When a landlord is legally allowed to evict a tenant, they must follow a strict process set by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Failure to comply can result in denial or legal action from the tenant.

Here are the main steps to ensure a legally valid eviction:

1. Provide a Proper Written Notice

The landlord must send a written eviction notice that includes:

• The reason for eviction (repossession, demolition, etc.)
• The intended lease termination date
• A statement of the tenant’s right to contest the eviction before the TAL

The notice should be delivered in writing (preferably by bailiff or registered mail) and signed. Keep a copy and proof of delivery)

2. Respect Legal Deadlines

The notice period depends on the lease type:

• At least 6 months before the end of a 12-month lease
• 1 month before the end of leases under 6 months
• 3 months before the intended eviction date for leases of indefinite duration or over 6 months

Example: For a lease ending June 30, the notice must be sent no later than December 31 of the previous year.

3. Wait for the Tenant’s Response or Objection

The tenant has one month after receiving the notice to accept or contest the eviction.

If no response is received, it is considered an implicit refusal. The landlord must then apply to the TAL to validate the eviction.

4. File a Request with the TAL (If Contested or Refused)

If the tenant refuses (explicitly or implicitly), the landlord must file a request for authorization with the TAL. The tribunal will assess:

• The proposed project
• Supporting documents (plans, permits, etc.)
• Compliance with deadlines and legal conditions

The TAL’s decision may authorize the eviction, deny it, or require the landlord to pay additional compensation.

Important! The TAL’s decision may authorize the eviction, deny it, or require the landlord to pay additional compensation.

Compensation Owed to Evicted Tenants

When an eviction is legally authorized, the landlord is required to pay compensatory damages to the tenant. This amount is intended to cover the inconvenience of moving and the loss of housing.

According to the Tribunal administratif du logement, the landlord must pay:

• An amount equal to three months’ rent
• Reimbursement of reasonable moving expenses

This amount may be higher if the tenant suffers particular harm or if a mutual agreement specifies a different amount.

The payment must be made no later than the end of the lease, unless another schedule is agreed upon. Failure to pay may result in the cancellation of the eviction or a legal claim.

Special Cases to Know

Certain tenant profiles or property types require special attention during an eviction process. Ignoring these can invalidate the procedure or lead to legal consequences.

Co-owned or Corporate Properties

• For properties held in co-ownership or by a corporation, the eviction must be justified by the collective use or decision of all co-owners.
• The process must be well-coordinated and supported by documented evidence.

Automatically Renewed Leases

• For indefinite-term leases or those automatically renewed, the legal notice periods still apply.
• Missing a deadline can delay the eviction by several months.

(source : Educaloi)

Best Practices for Landlords and Property Managers

Even when eviction is legally permitted, it’s important to remain thorough and respectful to avoid conflict, stay compliant, and maintain good relationships.

Here are some best practices to adopt:

1. Plan Projects in Advance

Before considering eviction, make sure you understand the legal deadlines, lease renewal periods, and the impact of the current moratorium. Good planning helps avoid refusals and delays.

3. Prioritize Clear and Respectful Communication

A well-informed tenant is more likely to cooperate. Explaining your project transparently can reduce tension and ease negotiations.

4. Work with Professionals

Consulting a legal expert can make all the difference. A poorly handled eviction can lead to refusals, higher compensation, or lengthy proceedings before the TAL.

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