How Rent Increases Work in Quebec
In Quebec, a rent increase is not just a number a landlord picks. There is a formal notice process, strict timelines, tenant response rights, and tools that help calculate a fair increase.
The Tribunal administratif du logement explains the notice process and timelines for rent increases and lease modifications.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
When the landlord must send the notice
For a lease of 12 months or more, the notice must be sent between 3 and 6 months before the end of the lease.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/sites/default/files/notices/TAL_806A_E.pdf
Other lease types have different timelines, such as leases under 12 months and indeterminate term leases, and the TAL summarizes those as well.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
The tenant’s reply and what happens next
After receiving the notice, the tenant has one month to reply. If the tenant does not reply, they are deemed to have accepted.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/sites/default/files/notices/TAL_806A_E.pdf
If the tenant refuses the rent increase, the landlord must file an application at the TAL within one month after receiving the refusal. Otherwise, the lease renews under the same conditions, meaning no increase that year.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
The easiest way to calculate a fair increase
Each year, the TAL publishes applicable percentages and offers an online calculation tool to help landlords and tenants negotiate a fair and reasonable rent increase.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/renewal-of-the-lease-and-fixing-of-rent/applicable-percentages-to-the-criteria-for-the-fixing-of-rent
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/calculation-for-rent-increase
The tool is built around TAL criteria and can reflect items like changes in taxes, insurance, operating costs, and eligible improvements, depending on the situation. That makes it a strong reference if a file ends up at the Tribunal.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/calculation-for-rent-increase
A new calculation method took effect on January 1, 2026, and the TAL notes that the applicable version depends on when the notice was given.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/calculation-for-the-fixing-of-rent/calculation-2023-tool
The special case for buildings five years old or less
Quebec has a major exception for dwellings in an immovable built five years ago or less, and for some recently converted dwellings.
If that restriction is indicated in section F of the lease, the tenant cannot refuse the increase and stay. If the tenant refuses, they must vacate at the end of the lease.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
The TAL also reminds that except in the case of a dwelling covered by article 1955, a tenant who objects is not required to pay the increase until the Tribunal makes a decision.
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increases
Can a landlord ask for more than the calculator result
A landlord can propose any amount, but the tenant can refuse. If there is no agreement, the TAL decides and fixes the rent based on the criteria and the evidence.
That is why the safest strategy is usually
Use the TAL calculation tool as your starting point
Keep documents for taxes, insurance, and improvements
Negotiate in good faith
Go to the TAL only when needed
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/calculation-for-rent-increase
Key takeaway
Send the notice on time, especially 3 to 6 months before the end of a 12 month lease
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/sites/default/files/notices/TAL_806A_E.pdf
Use the TAL tool to calculate a fair increase
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/calculation-for-rent-increase
If the tenant refuses, file within one month or the lease renews with no increase
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
Understand the section F exception for newer buildings
Source https://www.tal.gouv.qc.ca/en/news/detail?code=rent-increase-notices-and-modification-of-the-lease
This text is general information, not legal advice.