Quebec’s housing tribunal recently announced a 3.1% suggested rent increase to take effect in April. This increase, based on a new calculation method, has left tenants like Erik Skeaff in Montreal feeling frustrated. Despite ongoing maintenance issues in his apartment, such as flooding, dysfunctional appliances, and poor insulation, the calculation criteria for rent increases do not account for these concerns. Skeaff expressed his disappointment, stating that the lack of consideration for maintenance issues during rent negotiations feels like extortion.
Skeaff’s situation is not unique, as many tenants face similar challenges. The Coalition of Housing Committees and Tenants Associations of Quebec (RCLALQ) suggests seeking advice from housing committees or legal aid lawyers to understand tenants’ rights and procedures. Tenants can contest rent increases above the official government calculation, potentially using maintenance issues as leverage during negotiations for a lower increase.
Despite the tribunal’s recommended rent hike and the challenges faced by tenants, including rising rental costs in Montreal, many like Skeaff are struggling to afford living in the city due to unreasonable rent increases and lack of consideration for maintenance issues.
