Accommodation in Québec

Housing prices in Quebec, especially in Montreal, are rather affordable compared to prices found in major European cities. You can still find local discrepancy, some neighborhood being more sought-after than others like Plateau Mont-Royal in Montreal, and yet rental prices have been increasing regularly for the past few years.

In Montreal, you should know that all leases, with a one year term, start on July 1st and end on June 30th. Of course, you can still find a home in between, but you’d better start looking before July 1st if you want to have a large selection to choose from.

To find housing, you can refer to real estate section of the classifieds posted in free publications or traditional newspapers, use the internet, roam the neighborhood you are targeting, you will be able to spot small posters on doors mentioning the type of housing and the number to call.

There are different housing options in Quebec :

A "1 1/2" corresponds to a studio ;

A "2 1/2" corresponds to an apartment with a living room and one bedroom;

A "3 1/2" corresponds to an apartment with a living room, one bedroom and a dining room;

A "4 1/2" corresponds to an apartment with a living room, a dining room and two bedrooms;

A "5 1/2" corresponds to an apartment with a living room, a dining room and three bedrooms and so forth;

You can also find some apartments called "demi sous-sol" (half basement), which are located in a basement, half-way underground with smaller windows. Half basements usually rent for less than standard apartments which are located on the first floor or above but they are not as well lit.

You may also sublet an apartment or opt for roommates, which is widespread practice in Quebec. There are also monthly rentals, with decreasing rates if you commit for more than 6 month for instance.

Usually, there is no inventory made nor any security deposit required. However, painting the walls before leaving your rental is common practice. Be also aware that you are liable for the whole term of the lease. However, you may sublet the apartment with its owner’s approval (if the sub-letter does not pay the rent, you are still legally bound by the lease) or transfer the lease to a third person.

Water is free of charge in Montreal, you are responsible for electricity and gas charges. Heating costs are sometimes included in the rental price.

In the event of a litigation with your landlord, you will be able to ask the Régie du Logement for mediation. They will provide you with information and useful advice regarding rental agreements.

 Good to know :

If you hold a temporary visa or are under WHP in Quebec, landlords might ask for your Social Insurance Number (N.A.S.) to check your credit history (which you do not have yet) and use this as an excuse for not renting you a dwelling. Be aware that you are not required to provide your Social Insurance Number, this number is confidential and should be given only to your employer, your bank or the tax authorities. If you are still asked for it, go look somewhere else !

 Useful links:

Voir.ca - accommodation in Québec

http://www2.voir.ca/aLouer/

Kijiji – accommodation in Montréal

http://montreal.kijiji.ca/

Easy Roomate – flat sharing in Québec and Canada

http://ca.easyroommate.com/

Régie du Logement

http://www.rdl.gouv.qc.ca/

 

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