Montréal's housing market is tight, especially for newcomers without a local credit history or references.
How renting works
Most leases are 12 months, running 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 look: Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Facebook groups like "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, or raise the rent unfairly.
A landlord CAN: ask for references, run a credit check, ask for proof of income.
Documents to prepare: ID, proof of income or bank statements, SIN, references.
Approximate budget
Studio: $800–$1,2003½ (1 bedroom): $1,000–$1,5004½ (2 bedrooms): $1,200–$1,8005½ (3 bedrooms): $1,400–$2,200On top of that: Hydro-Québec $80–$150, internet $50–$80, home insurance $20–$40.
Protecting yourself from scams
Never pay before visiting, be wary of prices that look too low, never sign remotely, verify the landlord's identity.
CARI offers a personalized consultation service for housing searches.
