The housing market in Montréal is tight, especially for newcomers without credit history or local references.
How renting works
Most leases are 12 months, from July 1 to June 30. The lease is a standardized contract governed by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Once signed, neither you nor the landlord can cancel it unilaterally.
Where to search: Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Facebook groups "Appartements Montréal", Centris.ca, Kangalou.com, word of mouth, and CARI.
Your rights as a tenant
A landlord CANNOT: require a security deposit (illegal in Quebec), discriminate against you, enter your home without 24 hours' notice, increase rent abusively.
A landlord can: ask for references, check your credit, request proof of income.
Documents to prepare: identification, proof of income or bank statements, NAS, references.
Approximate budget
- Studio: $800-1200
- 3½ (1 bedroom): $1000-1500
- 4½ (2 bedrooms): $1200-1800
- 5½ (3 bedrooms): $1400-2200
In addition: Hydro-Québec $80-150, internet $50-80, home insurance $20-40.
Protecting yourself from scams
Never pay before visiting, beware of prices that are too low, never sign remotely, verify the landlord's identity.
CARI offers personalized consultation services for housing searches.
