Each year, the arrival of fall ushers in the cold season and brings with it a number of questions for lessees and lessors alike. In Québec, adequate heating of a dwelling is crucial to maintaining its habitability.

Therefore, at this time of the year, the Régie du logement reminds the public of certain rules governing the heating of a dwelling:

• when it is cold outside, the dwelling must be heated to about 21 degrees;

• a clause in the lease indicating a specific date when the heating must be turned on is invalid;

• when the lease indicates that the heating of a dwelling is paid for by the lessor, the law requires that the lessor ensure the lessee has an adequate ambient temperature, regardless of the time of the year;

• the lessor must see that the heating system is working properly;

• the lessee must maintain a sufficient temperature to prevent any damage to the dwelling. The lessee must also be sure not to overheat the dwelling and to use heating devices properly. For example, it is possible to air out a room in a few minutes without leaving the windows open for several hours.

What to do when there is a problem?

If the heating system breaks down, or if the ambient temperature in the dwelling is a source of discomfort, the lessee must inform the lessor. The lessor must react promptly to resolve the problem. However, if the situation persists, to prove that there is problem, the lessee can record the indoor and outdoor temperatures at predetermined times over a period of several days.

The indoor temperature is recorded in the centre of each room, one metre from the floor. A reliable witness can also help provide proof, particularly if the lessee wants to seek recourse before the Régie du logement.

For more information, see the section Heating Problems.

The Régie du logement can also be reached by telephone at the following numbers:

Montréal, Laval and Longueuil

514 873-BAIL (2245)

Elsewhere

1 800 683-BAIL (2245)

The Régie du logement is the tribunal with exclusive jurisdiction over rental housing in Québec.