Renting an Apartment in Montreal

Montreal is one of Canada’s most vibrant cities and is home to a diverse culture that attracts people from all walks of life. With a range of apartment rental options, there is something to suit all budgets and lifestyles. Source capreit.ca

According to Maclean’s Magazine, about 50% of Montreal’s population is renters. The city was built with a variety of apartment types in mind; from high-rises to condos to duplexes. Montreal is also known for its conversion of old industrial buildings into livable spaces, such as lofts for rent. These often come with soaring ceilings and exposed brick.

Best Websites for Apartment Rentals in Canada

As with any city, it’s important to research the neighbourhood in which you want to live. Look for things like whether it has a good public transportation system, if you can walk to work, and if you’ll be close to restaurants and bars. According to CNN, the best neighbourhoods for students are Old Montreal (for its boutique shops and restaurants), Le Plateau-Mont-Royal (for its booming nightlife) and Mile End (for its family-friendly activities).

When renting an apartment in any city, be sure to ask your landlord about their rental history. In Quebec, your landlord can only increase your rent by a small percentage each year, as determined by the government. On the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) lease (the only legally binding lease document in Quebec), look for section G, where your landlord must write down the lowest amount paid by the previous tenant. If this is lower than what you’re being charged, then you can request a hearing with the TAL to have your rent lowered back down to that figure.