What to Consider when Looking to Rent an Apartment in Montreal

Search tools

There are several resources when looking for an apartment in Montreal.

Apartments.com, Craigslist Montreal, Kijiji Montreal, Rentfaster.ca, and Facebook Marketplace are popular online platforms that list rental apartments and other housing options in various cities.

PadMapper and Zumper are online search engines that help you find apartments for rent in Montreal based on your budget, location, and other preferences.

Walk Score is also an online platform that helps you find apartments for rent in Montreal based on your proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, and other amenities.

Budget

The most important is your budget. Before searching, determine how much you can comfortably spend each month on rent. Keep in mind your other expenses and adjust your budget accordingly. Look for apartments in your preferred neighbourhoods, as the city has distinct areas.

Consider other expenses such as utilities and parking. If you don’t own a car, consider the proximity to public transport.

Safety

Look for a building with secure entrances and well-maintained common areas.
Consider talking to current tenants or checking online reviews to get an idea of the safety and security of the building and surrounding area.
Remember to check the crime rates in the area and tour the apartment building and surrounding neighborhood to ensure you feel safe and comfortable.

Location

Though finding a suitable apartment in your desired area won’t always be possible, narrowing down your preferences will make it easier to weigh the pros and cons and determine the best option.

When looking at the neighborhood, factor in walk score and noise levels. Consider factors like proximity to grocery stores, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as crime and safety of the area.

Need an Apartment in Montreal?

Lease

The lease should cover terms, conditions, and duration. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has a list of stipulations for the lease. The CMHC advises prospective tenants to consult a lawyer before signing if they need help understanding everything in the lease or if they create a lease customized to their terms.

The documents required to sign a lease may vary, but you can expect to provide the following:

Proof of income

This can include pay stubs, a letter of employment, or a tax return.

Identification

You must provide government-issued identification such as a driver’s license or passport.

References

Landlords may ask for references from previous landlords or personal contacts.

Credit check

Landlords may also require a credit check. BMO has teamed up with TransUnion to give access to CreditView®, where prospective tenants can get their free credit score and find tips on improving it.

Read the lease carefully and understand all the terms and conditions, including the length of the lease, the security deposit, the rent amount, and any restrictions on pets or smoking. If you have a pet or plan to own one, learn about the building’s pet policy, rules, and regulations.

The Quebec Civil Code governs the landlord-tenant relationship and sets out the basic rules of the relationship between the two parties. The Quebec Rental Board (Régie du logement) enforces those rules and resolves disputes between landlords and tenants.

Aspects of the landlord-tenant relationship in Montreal include:

Rent

The landlord may only increase the rent once per year, subject to approval by the Rental Board. The landlord must also provide the tenant with written notice of any rent increase at least three months before it takes effect.

Security deposit

The landlord may require a security deposit, but it cannot be more than one month’s rent. The deposit must be returned to the tenant at the end of the lease unless there are damages or unpaid rent.

Repairs and maintenance

The landlord maintains the rental property well and makes any necessary repairs. The tenant must promptly notify the landlord of any problems.

Privacy

The landlord may only enter the rental unit with the tenant’s consent or in certain specific circumstances (such as to make repairs or in an emergency).

Lease Termination

Both the landlord and the tenant may end the lease, but specific rules and notice periods must be followed.

Montreal has a competitive rental market, so act quickly if you find a unit you like. Consider working with a real estate agent or using online rental platforms to help streamline your search.

Tenant rights

Tenants’ rights are outlined here. Complaints can be submitted here.

Viewing

If you notice certain flaws during the tour, keep in mind that minor problems can be fixed and dealt with if the price, location, and general quality of the apartment are suitable.

Attractions

There is so much to see and do in historic Montreal. From the Old Port to the Botanical Gardens to Mount Royal, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to the city. Ensure you examine transit lines and travel time to get to the places you want to see and consider these in your search.

In 2021, Montreal’s rental market experienced a shift because of the COVID-19 pandemic. A report by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) noted that the vacancy rate in the city increased to 2.7 percent in 2020, up from 1.5 percent in 2019.

However, the 2022 CMHC report said, “Strong demand in the rental market pushed the vacancy rate down from 3.7% in 2021 to 2.3% in 2022.”

The rental market can fluctuate quickly depending on the time of year and other factors, so it’s best to check current listings and speak to local real estate agents for up-to-date information.

Taking the time to consider all the factors discussed can help ensure a positive rental experience in Montreal.