Long-Term Condo Rentals in Quebec: Rules to Know

Renting out your divided co-ownership unit on a long-term basis is often a good strategy for stabilizing your income and preserving the value of your asset. Long-term condo rentals nevertheless differ from renting out a dwelling outside a divided co-ownership. They involve specific obligations toward the syndicate, the board of directors (board) and the other co-owners.

In this article, we summarize the essential rules in Quebec, from the lease to the by-laws of the immovable, as well as tax and insurance considerations. You will learn how to avoid the most common pitfalls and establish a sound, compliant landlord–tenant relationship.

Before publishing your listing, take the time to review your declaration of co-ownership (DCV) and the by-laws of the immovable. These documents govern the day-to-day operation of your divided co-ownership and set the framework for residents’ lives, including tenants.

What Quebec law says about renting out a condo

• The co-owner may rent out their fraction, provided they comply with the DCV and the by-laws. The tenant must comply with them as soon as they have been provided to them (see the Civil Code of Quebec).
• You must notify the syndicate and provide a copy of the lease within the time limit prescribed by law. The Civil Code provides that a co-owner who rents out their fraction must, among other things, inform the syndicate and provide the required information, such as the tenant’s name and the lease (see section 1079 C.C.Q.).
• The divided co-ownership’s rules apply to the tenant in the same way as they apply to an owner-occupant, with respect to the common portions and, depending on the circumstances, certain restrictions in the private portions.

Useful references (current as of 2026-05-22):

• Civil Code of Quebec – Divided co-ownership (section 1079 on notice and a copy of the lease) — LégisQuébec: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/lc/CCQ-1991#art1079
• Civil Code of Quebec – General page — LégisQuébec: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/lc/CCQ-1991

In practice, most DCVs prohibit “tourist-style” short-term rentals but do not prohibit long-term rentals. Some DCVs impose a minimum term, such as 6 or 12 months. The validity of these clauses will depend on the wording of the DCV and the case law. If in doubt, consult a legal professional.

The syndicate and the board’s role: notices, rules and procedures

The syndicate and the board of directors oversee compliance with the DCV and the by-laws of the immovable. Before signing the lease, check and comply with the following:

• Notice procedure: send the tenant’s name and contact information, move-in date and a copy of the lease to the condominium manager or the board, according to the internal procedure. Ideally, do so in writing and keep proof that it was sent.
• Move reservation: many buildings require an elevator reservation, specific time slots and, sometimes, moving fees charged to the co-owner. These fees must arise from valid by-laws adopted by the meeting of co-owners.
• Occupancy rules: noise, pets, smoking, BBQs, electric vehicle charging stations, parking, storage and so on. Give the tenant the current version of the by-laws and have them acknowledge receipt.
• Deposits and rent: in Quebec, a lessor may not require a security deposit or more than one month’s rent in advance; these practices are restricted by the Civil Code (see section 1904 C.C.Q., LégisQuébec).

Relevant link: Civil Code of Quebec – section 1904 (deposits and rent) — LégisQuébec: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/lc/CCQ-1991#art1904

Tip: agree in writing on a contact person for emergencies, such as a leak or loss, and provide their details to the condominium manager. The board can then quickly reach the right person without disturbing the entire divided co-ownership.

For additional best practices in divided co-ownership, consult the Regroupement des gestionnaires et copropriétaires du Québec (RGCQ): https://rgcq.org/

Residential lease and essential clauses to include

Use Quebec’s official residential lease form from the TAL, then add additional clauses that comply with the DCV and the by-laws. Some useful clauses and schedules include:

• Compliance with the DCV and the by-laws of the immovable: include a clause stating that the tenant acknowledges having received them and agrees to comply with them. Attach them as schedules and keep them up to date.
• Tenant’s civil liability insurance: require annual proof, such as $1 million in liability coverage. This is not required by law, but is often required by the DCV; it protects all occupants in the event of a loss.
• Return of keys and access cards or fobs: specify the number of keys, cards or fobs and the applicable replacement fees under the building’s rules, charged to the co-owner.
• Parking and storage: clearly describe the location of parking spaces and storage lockers, including the lot or space number. Specify the permitted use and the applicable rules, such as no dangerous storage.
• Usual prohibitions: subject to the law and the DCV, remind the tenant of the restrictions in effect, such as no smoking in the common portions, pet rules and the prohibition on short-term rentals.
• Condition report: complete a move-in and move-out condition report, supported by photographs. This facilitates the handling of tenant-related repairs.

Also note that lease assignment and subletting are governed by the Civil Code: the tenant may assign the lease or sublet with your consent, which you may not refuse without serious reason (see sections 1870 et seq. C.C.Q.). Reference: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/lc/CCQ-1991#art1870

For operational support, including move-in and move-out management, communicating the by-laws and notifying the syndicate, see our administrative and operations management services:

• Services — Administrative management
• Services — Operations management

Tax, insurance and landlord responsibilities

Long-term residential rentals are generally exempt from GST/QST. You therefore do not have to charge them on the rent for a condo rented for residential purposes. However, your rental income is taxable and must be reported.

• Revenu Quebec – Rental income (individuals): https://www.revenuquebec.ca/fr/citoyens/votre-situation/revenus-de-location/
• RL-31 slip – Information to provide to tenants as of December 31 (solidarity tax credit): https://www.revenuquebec.ca/fr/entreprises/releves-et-sommaires/production-des-releves/releve-31/

Points to watch:

• Deductions: mortgage interest, for the rental portion; municipal and school taxes; insurance; management fees; eligible repairs; and depreciation of certain assets. Keep all your supporting documents.
• Separately rented parking: renting out a parking space that is not incidental to the dwelling may be taxable. Confirm your situation with a tax professional or Revenu Quebec.
• Co-owner insurance: inform your insurer that the unit is rented. Check the insurance requirements in the DCV, including the deductible, replacement cost and liability coverage, and require an annual certificate from the tenant.
• Losses and liability: if the tenant causes damage to the common portions, the syndicate may claim against the co-owner. Include collection mechanisms in your clauses.

For help maintaining records, including receipts, slips and supporting documents, also see our financial management services: https://www.multirent.ca/services/#gestion-financiere

Practical steps and checklist before renting

1. Review the DCV and the by-laws of the immovable; note any clause concerning the minimum rental term, moves and insurance.
2. Confirm any board requirements, including notice, an internal form, a copy of the lease and emergency contact information.
3. Prepare the official TAL lease and your schedules: by-laws, condition report, description of the spaces, civil liability insurance clause and required proof of insurance.
4. Select the candidate using objective and verifiable criteria, such as ability to pay, references and employment. Keep your notes and decisions.
5. Plan the move: reserve the elevator if necessary, inform the condominium manager and provide the occupancy rules as soon as the lease is signed.
6. Hand over the keys and access cards or fobs against an acknowledgment of receipt; record the serial numbers if possible.
7. Notify the syndicate in writing and provide it with a copy of the lease, the tenant’s contact information and move-in date.
8. Update your insurance and tax file; record eligible expenses and rent received from the first month.

To stay informed about divided co-ownership news, consult the multiRent blog: https://www.multirent.ca/blogue/

FAQ — Long-term condo rentals

Q1. Can a divided co-ownership impose a minimum rental term, such as 12 months?
A. Many DCVs provide for a minimum term to prevent excessive occupant turnover. Validity will depend on the wording and context. Seek a legal opinion if an issue arises.

Q2. Can I refuse a rental applicant?
A. Yes, based on objective reasons related to the lease, such as insolvency or negative references. Avoid any discrimination. Document your process and communications.

Q3. Do I have to notify my mortgage lender if I rent out my condo?
A. Very often, yes. Many mortgage agreements require the lender to be informed of a change in occupancy. Check your agreement to avoid a default.

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a lawyer or notary regarding your situation.

This article provides general information and is not a substitute for advice from a tax professional or accountant. Refer to Revenu Quebec and the CRA for the exact requirements.

Do you manage a divided co-ownership in Quebec? Discover our packages or contact us to assess your needs.