Renting in Montreal follows its own rules. Knowing three of them will spare you most of the surprises: the lease calendar, Section G and the housing tribunal.

July 1: the city-wide Moving Day

In Quebec, the vast majority of leases run July 1 to June 30. The result: on July 1, a big share of the city moves on the same day. Trucks and movers get booked months ahead, and the best apartments go as early as spring. If you’re arriving for the summer, start looking in March or April.

Section G: the previous tenant’s rent

Every Quebec lease has a Section G that states the lowest rent paid in the past twelve months. A landlord can’t raise the rent between tenants beyond what the law allows. If Section G shows a suspicious jump, you can contest the increase before the tribunal within ten days of signing. Many newcomers don’t know this and overpay.

The Tribunal administratif du logement

The TAL (formerly the Régie du logement) oversees rent increases, repairs, repossessions and disputes. Increases are capped by an annual formula: you can refuse one you consider excessive, and it’s on the landlord to have it set. Keep everything in writing and know your rights before you sign.

Renting from abroad is possible but risky sight unseen. We vet apartments, read Section G, and sign on your behalf so your lease is ready before you arrive.