A family of nine in Montreal is facing a challenging situation as they are living in a rented trailer outside their own duplex while awaiting a decision from Quebec’s housing tribunal. Armelle Foka, who bought the duplex with the intention of moving in with her family, is currently residing in the trailer with her mother, sisters, and children due to the tenants still occupying the property.
Foka had planned for her parents to move into the second unit of the duplex after the tenants’ leases expired, but the situation took an unexpected turn. The family finds themselves in a makeshift living situation, incurring additional expenses for the trailer and generator that were not part of their original plan.
Despite efforts to notify the tenants of their intention to reclaim the property, the process has been prolonged as the case remains in front of the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Foka expressed her frustration and disbelief at the turn of events, emphasizing that she had genuinely intended to make the duplex their home.
The tribunal, which handles repossessions for personal use, is now deliberating on the case. While landlords have the right to regain possession of a property for personal or family use, the process must adhere to Quebec’s legal framework to prevent misuse.
As the situation unfolds, the family is grappling with limited space in the trailer, highlighting the challenges they face during this uncertain period. Foka stressed that their goal was never about property investment but creating a home for her loved ones.
