Repossessing a Dwelling in Quebec: Deadlines, Conditions and Recourse
Last verified:
In brief — A landlord may repossess a dwelling to live in it, or to house an eligible close relative, subject to strict notice deadlines: generally 6 months before the end of the lease for a lease longer than six months. The tenant's silence counts as refusal: the landlord must then obtain the TAL's authorization, and the lease is renewed until the decision.
Repossession is a regulated right, not a simple landlord decision. The deadlines and conditions are precise, and a procedural error defeats the repossession.
Who a repossession can be for
The landlord may repossess the dwelling to live in it, or to house an eligible relative: a first-degree ascendant or descendant (parents, children), or another relative for whom the landlord is the main support. Repossession for anyone else is not allowed.
Notice deadlines
The notice of repossession must reach the tenant within the following deadlines:
| Lease term | Notice deadline before the end of the lease |
|---|---|
| More than 6 months | 6 months |
| 6 months or less | 1 month |
| Indefinite term | 6 months before the intended repossession date |
Example: for a lease ending June 30, the notice must be sent before December 31. The notice must state the repossession date, the beneficiary's name and their relationship to the landlord.
The tenant may refuse
The tenant is not required to accept. Their silence amounts to refusal. If refused, it is up to the landlord to apply to the TAL for authorization to repossess; the lease continues until the TAL decides. A filing fee applies at the TAL ($83 in 2026).
Protection for senior tenants
An older tenant who has occupied the dwelling for a long time and has modest income may benefit from protection against repossession under certain cumulative conditions of age, length of occupancy and income. Check whether the tenant qualifies before starting.
Compensation and bad faith
A repossession must be made in good faith: repossessing without actually living there, or to sidestep rent-setting rules, exposes the landlord to damages. The TAL may award compensation to the tenant where repossession is made in bad faith.
Build it into your planning
Repossession affects the real availability of a unit on a given date — a key parameter if you buy to live in a plex. Model the scenario before buying, not after. Analyze a property with DeedWorth →
FAQ
What is the deadline for a notice of repossession? For a lease longer than six months, notice must be given 6 months before the end of the lease. For a lease of six months or less, 1 month before the end. For an indefinite-term lease, 6 months before the intended repossession date.
Who can I repossess a dwelling for? To live in it yourself, or to house a first-degree ascendant or descendant, or another relative for whom you are the main support.
What happens if the tenant refuses? Silence counts as refusal. The landlord must then apply to the TAL for authorization, and the lease renews until the decision.
Can a senior tenant be protected against repossession? Yes, under certain cumulative conditions of age, length of occupancy and income.
Read more
For information only, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm your situation with the Tribunal administratif du logement or a professional. Last verified: July 2026.