Looking for a place to live a guide for new immigrants.

2008 Edition
A guide
for new
immigrants
Looking
for a place
to live...
This guide has been given to you by:
Welcome to Montréal!
The Regroupement des Organismes du Montréal Ethnique pour le
logement (ROMEL) is pleased to present to you its 2008
edition of the guide ‘Looking for a place to live’.
Practical and updated information will help you find your
apartment and get acquainted with the by-laws of the
housing industry and your new city home.
Publication of this booklet was made possible through the
sponsorship of various partners. We particularly wish to mention the valuable
participation of the Ministère de l’Immigration et des Communautés Culturelles
(MICC), the Ministère des Affaires municipales et des Régions (MAMR), the Société
d’habitation du Québec (SHQ), the City of Montréal, Hydro-Québec, the Société
d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SDHM), the Office municipal
d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM), the Société Canadienne d’Hypothèque et de
Logement (SCHL), the Fédération des Caisses populaires Desjardins, the Société de
Transport de Montréal (STM), Gaz Métropolitain, the Fonds d’efficacité énergétique
(FEE), and Vidéotron.
Mazen Houdeib,
General Director of ROMEL
MAYOR’S
MESSAGE
Welcoming and promoting the integration of newcomers
implies providing tools that will help them find ways to meet
their basic needs. This Guide is one of these essential tools,
aiding them to answer the question: “How to find a place to
live in Montréal?”
It provides an inventory of numerous resources to consult for
information on a host of subjects, including access to public
housing and home ownership. It also contains a wealth of
information on local customs that, while not actual rules,
nevertheless influence the behavior of Montrealers with regard to housing and
how to be a good neighbor.
A warm welcome to all those who have chosen to live in Montréal.
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CONTENTS
1. WELCOME TO MONTRÉAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
• Discovering Montréal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
• Some statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
• How to get around in Montréal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
2. YOU’VE JUST ARRIVED... WHAT DO YOU DO FIRST?
• Organizations that can help you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
• Where to sleep the first night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
• Useful tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
• What rent should you pay? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
• Finding the “right” apartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
• Discrimination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
3. LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO LIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
• Becoming a tenant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
• The Régie du logement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
• Becomig a homeowner and securing a mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
• Public housing organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
4. VISITING AN APARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
• The condition of the apartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
• Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
• Noise and services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
• Helpful advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
• Watch out! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
5. THE LEASE AND RENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
• The lease: a serious commitment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
• Problems during the lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
• The rent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
• The rent increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
• Renewing or ending your lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
4
6. YOUR APARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
• The integrity of the premises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
• Maintaining your apartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
• Public security 911 and prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
• Overcrowding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
• Unhealthy living conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
• Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
• Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
• Helpful Advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
7. MOVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
• Choosing a mover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
• Changing your address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
• Don’t forget Hydro–Québec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
• Natural Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
8. OTHER SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
• Electricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
• Housing insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
• Telephone, wireless, digital TV, and Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
9. MODEL LETTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
• Model lease non–renewal letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
• Model letter for renewing a lease and refusing a rent increase . . . . . . . . .46
• Model legal notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
• Notice to assign the lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
10. FOR MORE INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
• Tenant associations (or housing committees) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
• A few owner associations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
• Non–government organizations (NGOs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
• Public and government organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
• Temporary shelters in the Montréal area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
5
Baie d’Urfé
Beaconsfield
Kirkland
Pierrefonds
Roxboro
Dorval
Saint-Laurent
Hampstead
Rosemont–
La Petite-Patrie
Ville-Marie
Côte-des-Neiges–
Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
Verdun
Le Sud-Ouest
Westmount
Outremont Le PlateauMont-Royal
Mont-Royal
LaSalle
Lachine Côte-Saint-Luc
Montréal-Ouest
L’Île-Dorval
Pointe-Claire
Ahuntsic-Cartierville Villeray–
Saint-Michel–
Parc-Extension
Saint-Léonard
Montréal-Nord
MONTRÉAL URBAN COMMUNITY
Dollard-Des Ormeaux
L’Île-Bizard–
Sainte-Geneviève
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue
Senneville
6
Montréal-Est
Les villes de banlieue
reconstituées
au 1er janvier 2006
La Ville de Montréal
et ses arrondissements
au 1er janvier 2006
Mercier–
Hochelaga-Maisonneuve
Anjou
Rivière-des-Prairies–
Pointe-aux-Trembles
1.
WELCOME
TO MONTRÉAL
DISCOVERING MONTRÉAL
Montréal is the largest municipality in Quebéc. As you may have noticed, the
City of Montréal is situated on an island: the Island of Montréal, which is
divided into 19 districts and 15 boroughs. (Refer to page 53)
The Greater Montréal Area includes the City of Montréal as well as the north
and south shores of the island of Montréal. The City of Laval, the second
largest municipality in the area, is located on the north shore, while the city of
Longueuil is the south shore’s largest municipality.
SOME
STATISTICS:
Population in 2006
The Greater Montréal Area
City of Montréal
3 635 571 habitants
1 854 442 habitants
In 2006, the immigrant population (permanent and non-permanent residents)
numbered 740 355 people in the Greater Montréal Area.
These new Montréalers are a source of cultural wealth and contribute to the
economic development of the Montréal area.
Welcome to
the county of l’Acadie
7
HOW
TO GET AROUND IN
MONTREAL
The best way to get around in Montréal is to use the Société de transport de
Montréal (STM) bus and Métro systems. For a minimal cost, you can travel the
entire Island of Montréal from east to west and from north to south.
The STM bus system includes over 190 lines, including 20 on night
service. The Métro system consists of four lines (green, orange, yellow
and blue) serving 68 stations.
Trips are paid most often by a monthly pass or a weekly pass, with
tickets or in cash.* Transfers between the bus and Métro are free and
valid for 90 minutes. Transit passes can be purchased at Métro
stations or from more than 500 depositaries throughout the Island of
Montréal.
Maps of the Métro and bus systems are available free of charge at
Métro stations.
For more information on STM services, routes and fares:
With one station located in Longueuil and three in Laval, the STM Métro
system lets you connect with the Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) and Société
de transport de Laval (STL) bus services. In addition, certain intermodal stations
offer connections to the Agence métropolitaine de transport (AMT) commuter train
system.
For more information on the other carriers’ rates and routes:
AMT
www.amt.qc.ca
514 287-8726
RTL
www.rtl-longueuil.qc.ca
450 463-0131
STL
www.stl.laval.qc.ca
450 688-6520
Welcome to Montréal!
* In 2008, the STM will put new transit passes into circulation, including a
contactless smart card. For more information, visit the STM website.
8
2.
YOU’VE JUST ARRIVED...
WHAT DO YOU DO FIRST?
ORGANIZATIONS
THAT CAN HELP YOU
Welcome groups and immigration organizations, partners of the Ministère des
Relations avec les citoyens et de l'Immigration (MRCI), may offer you services in your
native tongue and ease your integration into the Montréal area. Chapter 10 of
this guide contains a list of these non–government organizations (NGOs) for
each of the districts of Montréal and for other municipalities.
WHERE
TO SLEEP THE FIRST NIGHT
No one can stay for long at a hotel without having large sums of
money at their disposal. Finding an appropriate first dwelling at an
affordable price is every newcomer’s first priority.
At first, it’s worth your while to find temporary lodging in a furnished
dwelling (apartment or room) rented by the week or month. This way,
you can begin the process of finding a residence better suited for your
long–term needs. Choose a dwelling in a central location, or one close to public
transportation services, to facilitate your search.
Most newspapers publish lists of vacant dwellings according to category:
apartments, sublets, rooms for rent, dwellings to share, etc.
Some welcome groups and immigrantion organizations run shelters and
transition houses for newcomers. Rent for these dwellings is much more
affordable than the cost of a hotel or motel. You will find a list of temporary
shelters in Chapter 10.
USEFUL TIPS
You will no doubt read offers for a 2 1/2, a 3 1/2 and a 4 1/2. These numbers
refer to the number of rooms in the dwelling, including the kitchen. The
bathroom accounts for the “half.” A 5 1/2 thus
APPARTEMENTS
consists of three bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room
À LOUER
and a bathroom.
APARTMENT FOR RENT
21/2, 31/2, 41/2
INFORMATION: TÉL. : 341-1057
9
Furthermore, the terms “equipped” or “semi–furnished” indicate that basic
electrical appliances (ie, stove and refrigerator) are supplied and included in the
rent. Likewise, the terms “heated” or “unheated” tell you if heating costs are
included in the rent.
You should also be aware that you can get a neighbourhood telephone book
listing all the resources available locally. This book may be obtained free of
charge in Accès Montréal offices.
WHAT
RENT SHOULD YOU PAY?
Ideally, the total budget allocated for housing (including the rent, heat and
electricity) should not exceed 30% of your gross income (before income-tax).
Before you rent a dwelling, write out a budget taking into account the rent of
the dwelling in which you are interested. You will then be in a position to know
if you are capable of shouldering the expense.
FINDING
THE
“RIGHT”
APARTMENT
Read the newspapers (La Presse, Le Journal de Montréal, The Gazette, Voir,
Mirror) and the classified advertisements in neighbourhood papers.
Walk around in the neighbourhood that interests you. Some landlords do
not list vacancies in the newspapers.
Make use of your network of acquaintances: friends, colleagues, family,
organizations from your cultural community or consult welcome and
assistance organizations for newcomers (see detailed list in Chapter 10).
Visit a few apartments. This will help you to make an informed and
appropriate choice.
You might also consider renting with others. Two or more people can
jointly sign the same lease in order to share the cost of housing. This
practice, which is very common in Quebéc, is perfectly legal. Choose your
co–tenants carefully before agreeing to rent with them. The newspapers
have “apartment to share” listings.
10
DISCRIMINATION
The right to be free of discrimination when you rent an apartment is
guaranteed by the Quebéc Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.
«
Every person has a right to full and equal recognition and exercise of his
human rights and freedoms, without distinction, exclusion or preference based on
race, colour, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, civil status, age except as provided
by law, religion, political convictions, language, ethnic or national origin, social
condition, a handicap or the use of any means to palliate a handicap.
(The Charter, article 10)
»
A landlord cannot refuse to rent to you for the reasons listed above.
If you belong to a group frequently targeted by discrimination, you must be
careful when looking for an apartment. Owners will want to know if you are a
good tenant. Do you always pay your rent on time? Do you respect your
tenants’ obligations?
If you believe that you are being denied a dwelling because of your race, ethnic
origin, religion, nationality or sexual orientation, this constitutes a discriminatory act under article 10 of the Charter. You may register a complaint with
the Comission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse. You can
contact the CDPJ in Montréal at 514 873–5146.
11
3.
LOOKING FOR A PLACE
TO LIVE IN MONTRÉAL
In the private sector, apartments belong to individuals or to private
organizations (corporations, housing cooperatives, non–profit organizations).
Public sector apartments belong to the government. Public low–income
housing is one example. There are approximately 25 000 low–income units on
the island of Montréal.
BECOMING
A TENANT
The rental market is made up of every apartment for which
a rent is payable. When you rent an apartment you become
a tenant and the person who owns the dwelling is the
owner (also called the landlord or lessor).
Several types of dwellings can be rented: the term
“apartment” applies to units in large buildings, while the term “dwelling”
applies to units in smaller buildings (2 to 6 units). A building with two units is
called a duplex, one with three, a triplex.
There are two main categories of landlords:
small–scale owners: they have only a few dwellings, generally live in the
same building as their tenants and take care of maintenance and renting
dwellings. They usually do not list all their vacancies in the daily
newspapers but post a sign on the door of their building to attract a
more diligent group of tenants.
large–scale owners: they have a large number of dwellings and generally
do not live in their buildings. A caretaker is responsible for maintenance
and renting the apartments. They often announce vacancies in the
newspapers. They may also entrust the management of their apartments
to specialized firms.
THE RÉGIE
DU LOGEMENT
The residential rental market is regulated by the Loi sur
l’habitation and falls under the jurisdiction of the Régie du
logement. The Régie du logement is the organization delegated by
the Quebéc government to oversee the rental market. The Régie
du logement is an administrative tribunal.
12
The Régie du logement’s main role is to inform citizens of their rights and
obligations, to promote agreement between parties to a lease, to hear disputes
when amicable settlement is impossible and, last but not least, to promote
harmonious relations between landlords and tenants.
For more information, you may reach the Régie du logement in Montréal by
telephoning 514 873–2245 or www.rdl.gouv.qc.ca
BECOMING
A HOMEOWNER
AND SECURING A MORTGAGE
Private ownership is one way people can control their housing
conditions. People who buy a property can arrange it according to
their needs; this is not always possible when one rents a dwelling.
The real estate agent: A good real estate agent should save you
time and troubles. You can transact with the vendor’s real estate
agent or can hire someone to work exclusively for you.
Potential buyers should negotiate a mortgage loan from a financial institution.
The interest rates of financial institutions vary according to the mortgage term
selected by the borrower.
The buyer will generally be asked for an initial deposit of 20 to 25% of the real
estate price. It is important to remember that the purchase will result in
additional charges (notary fees, the localization certificate, professional
evaluation costs, a first tax instalment, a first insurance payment, moving
costs, etc.). For more information, contact one of the owner associations listed
in Chapter 10.
Certain government programmes assist and promote home ownership. The
Mortgage-Guarantee programme can allow a person to buy a first home with
little (less that 20% of property value) or no deposit. On payment of an
insurance premium, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
provides mortgage, the amount of which can reach up to 100% of the value of
the property. The buyer has to be a permanent resident (landed immigrant) or
a Canadian citizen.
In the city of Montréal, for example, the program Access to a private property
offers a financial aid of $6500 for an applicant with no children on one
condition that the purchase price of the property must not exceed $180 000
tax included. For an applicant with at least a child under 18 years old, the
financial aid will be $10 000 but the purchase price must not exceed $235 000
tax included. For mor information on the (Access to a private property)
program please call 514 872-4630.
There are several types of private ownership, the best–known of which are
individual ownership and co-ownership.
13
Individual ownership
This type of ownership involves a single dwelling occupied
by one owner. Individual ownership is most commonly
associated with the single–family house (bungalow,
cottage, semi–detached and row–house).
Certain buildings contain more than one dwelling, one of
which is occupied by the owner while the other(s) is\are
occupied by tenant(s). Often, families and couples become owners of a first
house by purchasing a small building, like a duplex or triplex.
Co–ownership
Divided co–ownership, more commonly known as “condominium,” is the type
of ownership in which one person becomes exclusive owner of the dwelling in
which he or she lives and sometimes of a lot of land. The owner shares certain
spaces and the grounds around the building with other co–owners.
Undivided co–ownership gives each co–owner a right of ownership not only
over his or her dwelling, but also over the entire building and lot of land. A
written agreement between co–owners determines who will have exclusive use
of each part of the building. This is the least expensive way to become a home
owner. Building taxes are lower than they are for condominiums. On the other
hand, problems could arise if the various co–owners disagree over the management of the co–ownership or when one of the owners decides to sell his right.
PUBLIC HOUSING ORGANIZATIONS
To ensure the proper functioning of the residential market, the three levels of
government (municipal, provincial and federal) have combined their efforts
and set up various support programmes.
Since 1946, the Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation (CMHC) has been the federal body
responsible for housing issues. Under the National
Housing Act (NHA), this public corporation must
“encourage the construction of new houses, the repair and
renovation of existing houses, and the improvement of
housing and living conditions.” To attain these objectives, the CMHC creates
and offers services, and develops and institutes programmes aimed at
promoting the stability of the housing market, assisting Canada’s low–income
population and helping to build a housing sector that is at once dynamic and
sensitive to society’s needs.
Over the last few years, the federal government has developed a set of defined
principles with regards to housing. These principles include fairness, supporting
the private sector, respecting diversity, environmental quality, cooperative efforts
and the efficient use of public resources.
14
CMHC’s strategies are not limited to programmes of expenditure and the more
traditional areas of activity (ie., underwriting mortgages and applying a social
housing programme). Increasingly, CMHC is relying on other techniques such
as research, pilot projects, consultations, information sharing and
partnerships. This change matches new conditions evolving in government
capacity, in housing and in society at large. CMHC has become an active
specialist–catalyst which, in its capacity as federal housing agency, assists
Canadians in finding a home. You can contact CMHC in Montréal at
514 283–2222 www.schl.ca
La Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ) strives to
improve the housing conditions of Québecers by
supporting residential construction, renovation and
adaptation programs.
The SHQ works in collaboration with partners, including municipalities,
housing bureaus, non-profit agencies, housing cooperatives, landlords,
building contractors, public sector partners and the Canada Mortgage and
Housing Corporation.
Since its creation in 1967, the SHQ has introduced a number of programmes
aimed primarily at low-income households and people with special housing
needs, such as families, seniors with slightly diminishing independence, and
people with disabilities.
The SHQ is responsible for preparing and implementing housing policies and
programs. Its mission is:
to facilitate access to proper housing conditions for the citizens of
Québec;
to promote better overall housing conditions in Quebéc; and
to foster the development and promotion of Québec’s housing-related
expertise.
The SHQ is the Québec Government’s principal housing advisor, and falls
under the authority of Nathalie Normandeau, Vice-Premier and Minister of
Municipal Affairs and the Regions.
For further information on the SHQ and on the types of housing assistance
available, please call 1 800 463-4315 or visit www.habitation.gouv.qc.ca.
15
L’Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM) is a nonprofit paramunicipal organization that manages more than
20,000 low-income housing units on the island of Montréal.
L’Office also administers the rent subsidy program (Programme
de supplément au loyer) which offers non-profit or private market
dwellings to low-income households who register. Living in a low-rent housing
unit (HLM) enables low-income families and individuals to live in a decent
dwelling while paying only 25% of their income.
Living in a HLM also ensures tenant stability, security and more means to get
essential needs like food and clothing. To be eligible for social housing, people
who apply must meet the following conditions:
Be a Canadian citizen or have a permanent resident status in Canada.
Be 18 years or older.
Have been living in the Montréal Metropolitan Community (MMC) for
12 consecutive months during a 24 months period.
The applications are evaluated after assessing different factors such as the
applicant’s income, the cost of his rent, the number or residents versus the
apartment size required, the ranking on the waiting list, etc.
Since 2003, the OMHM has also been building affordable housing units where
the predetermined rent is lower than the market. The Office intends to build
1,250 units as part of the City of Montréal’s Solidarité 5,000 logements
operation.
For more infomation: 514 872-6442 or www.omhm.qc.ca
La Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal
(SHDM) is a non-profit organization whose mission
includes offering affordable housing. The SHDM has
an inventory of some 5,600 housing units that are
spread throughout the various neighbourhoods of Montréal and that meet the
needs of both families and singles. Over half of these housing units are
managed by housing cooperatives or non-profit organizations from local
communities.
In January 1, 2007, the SHDM and the Société de développement de Montréal
(SDM) were grouped together so that all aspects of management and real
estate development in Montréal now come under one and the same
responsibility.
Moreover, the SHDM plays a role in carrying out municipal housing objectives
through specific projects that the City assigns it, such as the Accès Condos
program, which facilitates access to affordable properties.
16
For further information, to rent housing or to obtain information on the Accès
Condos program:
514 380-SHDM (7436)
www.shdm.qc.ca
www.alouer.shdm.org
www.accescondos.org
Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM)
425, rue Sherbrooke Est, bureau 01, Montréal (Québec) H2L 1J9
Association des groupes
de Ressources Techniques du Québec
Community housing, an alternative for your
housing needs
For the last 24 years, the Regroupement des Organismes du
Montréal Ethnique pour le Logement (ROMEL) has been
devoted to helping new immigrants find confortable
housing. With a professional, well experienced technical resources group,
ROMEL is committed to the development of community housings, tailored to
the needs of cultural communities and their families. Community housing is
not just any lodging, but rather a durable and affordable form of collective
ownership that residents have control over. About 5% of the social housing
stock in Quebéc has been developed under community housing cooperatives
(Co-op) and non-profit organizations (NPO).
In a housing co-op, residents collectively hold and maintain their residential
building. The co-op is democratically controlled by its tenants whom are
considered as members and who have an equal decision making power in all
matters relating to their habitat. Members of the co-op are expected to be
involved in all tasks and activities relating to the management of their building
because their participation helps ensure that rents are closest possible to
operating costs.
As for non-profit organizations (NPOs), these are managed by the residents
living there, as well as volunteers. Generally, NPOs are reserved for social
groups living specific difficulties in finding accommodation such as the elderly,
the homeless, single persons, single-parent mothers, etc. Similar to housing coops, the NPO’s mission is not to make profit, but to provide superior quality
housing at a very affordable price
17
The GRTs, Community Builders
Technical Resource Groups, or their French acronyms Groupes de Ressources
Techniques (GRT), are non-profit organizations specialized in supporting groups
of people in the development of their commucal property projects. They
develop housing that corresponds to the particular needs of persons with lowto-modest income in Quebéc. In their multiple interventions and approaches,
the dynamic teams of GRTs take to heart the communities’ value for ownership
and their right for proper living conditions. Over the last 30 years, the GRTs’
endless effort and dedication have helped realize 55,000 housing units all over
Québec.
In addition to the above, GRTs offer a wide array of other services such as
organization, coordination, technical and administrative support, and training
throughout the various development phases of the projects. Furthermore,
GRTs provide tailored training needs, general direction and superior
management for co-ops, NPOS, and other community organizations.
L’Association des groupes de ressources techniques du Québec
(L’AGRTQ)
Founded in 1989, the AGRTQ unites 24 technical resource groups (GRTs) that
are divided to serve all the regions and towns of Quebéc. The AGRTQ is a major
player in the field of community housing. It works in partnership with various
networks and representatives involved in matters of social and community
housing. Its remarkable efforts led to the creation and establishments of
government programs related to the development of community housing such
as AccèsLogis Québec and Affordable Housing Québec.
For more information regarding community housing, contact ROMEL at 514 341-1057,
or visit the AGRTSQ’s web site: http://www.agrtq.qc.ca
Housing made accessible
Low-rental housing:
Affordable Housing and
residences for seniors:
18
19
4.
VISITING
AN APARTMENT
THE
CONDITION OF THE APARTMENT
When you visit an apartment, ask yourself the following questions:
Does the rent include hot water, electricity and heat?
If not, what is the monthly cost of these services?
Are the stove and refrigerator included? Are they in good working order?
Is there a laundry room? If not, where is the closest laundromat?
Is it possible to install a washing machine and dryer in the apartment?
?
What floor is the apartment on?
Is there an elevator?
Are there enough windows to allow adequate light and ventilation?
Do the doors and windows open and close properly?
Remember how cold Quebéc winters can be!
If you have children, make sure the dwelling is large enough to
accommodate the whole family.
Is there a place where the children can play safely outdoors?
Is the building well–maintained?
Does the dwelling need to be repainted? If yes, who will do it –– you or
the landlord? Who will pay, and when?
Are the kitchen and bathroom in good condition?
Are they functional?
Check the windows of the dwelling.
Check the doors of the refrigerator and oven.
Also note the condition of the plumbing.
Are there cockroaches or other vermin?
Have you written all the information concerning the dwelling?
20
SECURITY
Is there a caretaker?
Is the main entrance always locked?
Is there an emergency exit?
Are there smoke detectors, an alarm system and fire extinguishers?
Are the locks in good working order?
NOISE
AND SERVICES
Is the building quiet?
Do you hear your neighbours walking, talking?
Do you hear noise from the street?
What services exist near your dwelling?
Banks, post office, laundromat, grocery stores, other stores, schools, parks, bus
and metro services, Centre local de services communautaires (CLSC). To obtain
the address of the CLSC nearest to you in Montréal, call 514 644-4545.
HELPFUL
ADVICE
Always try to visit an apartment twice, during daylight hours because
defects are more visible and in the afternoon for noise.
Do not hesitate to ask other tenants if they are satisfied with their
lodgings.
Bring a paper and pencil. Note down all repairs that must be made.
Write them into the lease along with the date of execution. In this way,
you have proof of the landlord’s promise. If repairs are subs-tantial we
suggest that you look elsewhere for your dwelling.
Does the apartment satisfy all your requirements? Are you ready to bind
yourself by signing a lease?
21
WATCH
OUT!
Occasionally, the landlord might ask you to fill out a form containing certain
information to evaluate your financial capacity as a tenant. This form may
entail a commitment on your part. You may be undertaking to sign the lease
should the landlord accept you.
Certain confidential information such as your social insurance number, the
name of your employer and other data may be requested by the landlord.
Remember that you are NOT OBLIGED to give anyone this information and
that the landlord cannot refuse to rent you a dwelling because you have not
furnished this information.
To prove your financial solvency, bring the landlord proof that you have the
necessary funds to pay your rent (receipts from your former landlord, payed
public service bills, etc.). If you are a newcomer, you may also supply letters of
recommendation (from an organization in your cultural community, a
representative of your church, etc.).
22
5.
THE LEASE
AND RENT
On January 1st, 1994, the Civil Code of Quebéc was amended. These amendments changed certain aspects of the lease. For more information, phone the
Régie du logement in Montréal, at 514 873–2245.
If you speak neither English nor French and want to be accompanied while
visiting a dwelling or signing a lease, ask a welcome organization for newcomers
to help you (see the detailed list of organizations in Chapter 10).
THE
LEASE: A SERIOUS COMMITMENT
A contract between two parties
A lease is a contract binding the landlord and tenant to each
other for its entire duration.
Two copies of the standard lease, produced by the Régie du logement, are
supplied by the landlord. Take the time to read the ENTIRE lease before
signing! The landlord must give you one copy of the lease in French or English.
The duration of a lease is generally 12 months (one year). The tenant may,
however, negotiate the length of the lease with the landlord. Tenants commit
themselves for the entire period for which they have signed. In Quebéc, most
leases start on the first of July and finish June 30th of the following year.
Your main commitments
✔
The tenant must respect all his / her obligations for the entire duration of
the lease.
✔
The tenant must pay the rent on the first day of each month, or on the first
day of each pay period.
✔
The tenant must maintain the dwelling in clean condition.
✔
The tenant must respect all obligations concerning security and health in the
dwelling.
✔
The tenant and people he or she admits into the building must behave in
such a manner so as not to bother other tenants of the building in the
normal enjoyment of the premises.
✔
The tenant cannot change the dwelling or use it for purposes other than
those for which it was rented.
23
✔
If the tenant wants to leave the dwelling he or she must, in a specified
period, advise the landlord in writing of the termination of the lease. He or
she must leave the premises and return the dwelling to the landlord in the
same condition it was received.
✔
The tenant cannot allow overcrowding of the dwelling to such a degree that
municipal and other regulations regarding health, safety and dwelling
occupation standards (Régie du logement Act) are violated.
Your landlord’s main commitment
✔
The landlord must allow you into the dwelling on the date stipulated in the
contract, under acceptable conditions of cleanliness (ie., the dwelling must
meet rental housing standards).
✔
The landlord is responsible for delivering and maintaining the premises in
good condition. He or she must respect all laws and regulations regarding
maintenance, safety, health and all other regulations. A tenant who suspects
that a law or regulation has been broken may call the municipality. The
municipality will, if need be, send an inspector so that the situation can be
rectified. If a law has been broken, the tenant may take legal action for
damages, but he or she must first give the landlord written legal notice.
✔
The landlord must guarantee proper enjoyment of the
premises. This obligation includes the duty to maintain the
premises in their original form and use for the duration of
the lease. If the landlord changes the use of the premises
(eg., by replacing a first–floor grocery store with a video
arcade) the tenant can contact the Régie du logement.
Be careful before you sign!
✔
Make sure the landlord gives you the rules of the building, if
there are any.
✔
Check what is included in the lease (electricity, hot water,
heating, stove, refrigerator, etc.) and make sure the landlord
writes them in the “additional clauses” section of the lease.
✔
Make sure promises to repair, dates of completion and other
details discussed with the landlord are written in the lease, in
the “additional clauses” section.
✔
Make sure that the landlord has not increased the rent unreasonably from
the amount paid by the previous tenant, this should be written in the
“Notice to the new tenant” section.
✔
Ask to see the lease of the former tenant to verify the previous rent. If there
is a big difference between the old rent and that which you are being asked
to pay, you may contest the rent increase, at the Régie du logement, within a
short period of time.
24
PROBLEMS
DURING THE LEASE
Delays for contestation
If the previous rent is written in the lease, you have 10 days after signing the
lease to contest your new lease and rent. If the information is incorrect, you
have two months to contest dating from the moment you become aware of the
falsehood. If the landlord has not written the former rent in your lease, you
have two months following the commencement of the lease
to ask the Régie du logement to fix a reasonable rent. It is
always best to obtain hard proof of the old rent.
(Model letters refer to chapter 9)
XXX
ÉAL
MONTR
QUÉBEC
Leaving your dwelling during the lease
There are many ways of leaving a dwelling during a lease: you can resiliate your
lease, transfer your lease or sublet your dwelling. In the last two cases you must
find a tenant.
Resiliation of the lease: This is possible in certain cases specified by law.
A resiliation can also occur when the landlord and tenant agree to end
the lease before its expected termination. A written document signed by
both parties is required as proof of resiliation.
Subletting: If the landlord refuses to resiliate the lease, you can look for
a subtenant or person who will replace you and live in the dwelling. If you
sublet, you are still legally responsible to the landlord. Should you opt
for this strategy, you should phone the Régie du logement (514 873–2245)
or a housing or tenant committee (see the list in Chapter 10) for
more information, as you will have to fulfil certain
T
legal requirements.
EMEN
LOG
ER
S-LOU
À SOU T TO SUBLET
Assigning the lease: Assigning a lease occurs when
MEN
APART
you transfer a lease to a new tenant. Unlike
subletting you are no longer legally responsible
because the name on the lease is no longer your own.
If you opt for this solution, contact the Régie du logement (514 873–2245)
or a housing or tenant committee (see the list in Chapter 10) for more
information, as you will have to fulfil certain legal requirements.
Abandoning the dwelling: This is generally a tenant’s last choice.
Abandonment is legal only when the dwelling constitutes a serious risk for
its occupants’ health or safety. Abandonment is illegal when done for
any reason other than the two mentioned above. Before considering
abandoning the dwelling, ask for help and advice from a housing or
tenant committee (see the list in Chapter 10); if the abandonment of a
dwelling is done for the wrong reasons you may suffer serious
consequences.
25
Watch out! Before abandoning a dwelling:
- Find a witness to come and examine the problem.
- Send a registered letter to the landlord explaining the problems with the
dwelling and informing him or her of your intention to leave. You may
notify the landlord of your intention before leaving or in the 10 days
following the abandonment.
- Keep copies of your letters as well as proof they were sent by registered
mail. If the landlord contests your abandonment at the Régie du
logement you will need your letters and witnesses as evidence.
ATTENTION: You cannot simply abandon the dwelling without notifying the
landlord! Contact your tenant association or the Régie du logement for advice.
Let us suppose that you find another, more suitable dwelling, or that you have
to leave town. If there is nothing seriously wrong with your present dwelling
you must negotiate with the landlord to resiliate the lease.
Can the landlord ask you to leave the dwelling?
Once you have signed the lease, you have a right to stay in your dwelling as long
as you like, provided you respect your obligations.
The landlord may, however, request resiliation of the lease in the following
circumstances:
You fail to respect your obligations. For example, you neglect to pay your
rent or pay it late; you do not maintain your dwelling; you interfere with
the peaceful enjoyment of the premises. The landlord must file a
complaint against you with the Régie du logement before evicting you. Only
the Régie du logement can force a tenant to leave a dwelling.
The landlord wishes to make major repairs. In this case, the tenant may
return to his dwelling once the repairs are finished. The tenant has a right
to damages.
The landlord repossesses the dwelling. A landlord may request
repossession only for his or her own use or for the use of a family member
for whom the landlord is financially responsible. If you suspect that the
landlord is evicting you for reasons other than the two stated above,
refuse the repossession in writing. The landlord must then prove his good
faith in a hearing at the Régie du logement. The landlord must respect the
lease until its termination.
Change of purpose: If the landlord wishes to transform or use the
dwelling for purposes other than those for which it was rented, he must
prove his good faith if the tenant contests.
26
Harassment
The landlord cannot use harassment as a means of forcing you to leave the
dwelling before the end of the lease.
Harassment is a conduct expressed by repeated words, acts or gestures of a
hurtful or scornful nature aimed at a person or group of people which
substantially diminish a tenant’s quality of life, limit the tenant’s right of
peaceful enjoyment of the dwelling he or she occupies and force the tenant’s
departure.
This conduct undermines the dignity, and the physical and psychological
integrity of human beings.
Perhaps you are experiencing this kind of situation and you and your family are
tired of constant harassment by the landlord or by your neighbours. You
decide to find another dwelling.
Is this the best solution?
One of the primary aims of harassment is to force the tenant to pay more rent
or to find another apartment. When you leave your dwelling you are doing
exactly what your harassers wish. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that you
will not be a victim of discrimination in your next apartment.
Fear of Immigration Department officials
People who harass others often threaten to report their victims to the
Immigration Department or to retaliate in other ways if the victim complains.
Unless you are living illegally in the country, you have nothing to fear from the
Immigration Department.
Laying a complaint
Contact the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPJ) if
you believe that the harassment you suffer is linked to your ethnic origin,
colour, sex or age. After you lay a complaint with the Commission, the
Commission investigates the facts. If an informal settlement is not possible, it
may take action (in your name, and at your expense) against the harassers
before a human rights tribunal. You can contact the Commission in Montréal
at 514 873-5146. If you believe that the harassment you suffer is not linked to
your ethnic origine or personnal caracteristics, you can contact the Régie du
logement. In Montréal, you can call 514 873-2245.
27
Repairs
When repairs must be made to your dwelling during your lease, you must
follow the following procedures:
Notify the landlord verbally as to what repairs need to be made and ask
when he or she intends to make them.
If the landlord fails to make the repairs, you must then send the landlord
a written notice (see the model written notice in Chapter 9) in which you
give details of the work to be done and the deadline upon which you
expect its completion (usually 10 days). Always keep a copy of the written
notice and make sure to send it by registered mail.
If the landlord fails to make the repairs by the deadline specified in the
written notice, go to an office of the Régie du logement to lay a formal
complaint. There is a cost to open a file. The Régie will examine your
complaint, so bring your lease and a copy of your written notice. Then it
will mail you and the landlord a letter indicating the date, time and
location of your hearing. If you fail to show up at the prescribed date
and hour, you may lose the case automatically, by default. Do not
hesitate to ask your housing committee or tenant association for advice
(see the list in Chapter 10).
THE
RENT
The rent is paid in advance on the first day of each payment period unless
the parties decide otherwise.
The rent is paid in equal instalments, excepting the last instalment which
may be smaller than the others. The landlord cannot demand an
instalment greater than a month’s rent.
The rent is paid by cheque or in cash. It is important for the landlord to
give the tenant a receipt proving a payment in cash. It is preferable to use
cheques which automatically provide proof of payment.
The landlord cannot demand a postdated cheque as payment for rent.
The landlord cannot ask for an advance payment of more than one rent
period. If the period exceeds a month, he or she cannot demand the
payment of more than a month’s rent. Moreover, the landlord cannot
ask, either directly or indirectly, for any sum of money as a deposit.
28
THE
RENT INCREASE
The landlord can increase the rent only once (1) during the duration of the
lease.
The rent increase must be reasonnable. You have the right to refuse any
increase that you feel may be unreasonnable.
To know if the rent increase is reasonnable, you can call the Régie du
logement or a tenant association for advice (see the list in chapter 10).
Be aware that you may renew your lease but refuse the rent increase.
You may contact the Régie du logement, in Montréal, at 514 873-2245.
RENEWING
OR ENDING YOUR LEASE
Under Quebéc law, leases are automatically renewed when they reach their
term as long as no change is made by either the tenant or the landlord.
If you wish to move at the end of your lease, you must respect two conditions
in giving the landlord notice:
Give notice in writing
Give notice at the time prescribed by law:
– for a lease of 12 months or more, send a letter by registered
mail 3 to 6 months before the end of the lease;
– for a lease of less than 12 months, you must send the letter
by registered mail 1 to 2 months before the end of the lease.
In Chapter 9 you will find a standard form non–renewal letter.
At the end of every lease, the landlord can propose certain changes to the lease
(ie, a rent increase). To do this he or she must also respect two conditions in
giving the tenant notice:
Give notice in writing
Give notice at the time prescribed by law:
– for a lease of 12 months or more, a registered letter must be sent
3 to 6 months before the end of the lease;
– for a lease of less than 12 months, a letter must be sent by
registered mail 1 to 2 months before the end of the lease.
In Chapter 9 you will find a standard form lease renewal letter and a refusal of
rent increase.
29
When a tenant receives a notice of modification of the lease, he or she has one
month from the date on which the notice was received to respond to the
landlord (in writing, by registered mail).
If the tenant fails to respond to the landlord’s notice, he or she is deemed to
have accepted the changes suggested by the landlord and to have accepted
the lease renewal.
If the landlord fails to send you a notice of modification of the lease, it means
he or she does not want to make any changes. If you wish to leave the dwelling,
you must notify the landlord.
For more information, call the Régie du logement in Montréal at 514 873-2245.
C A N A D A
M O R T G A G E
A N D
H O U S I N G
C O R P O R A T I O N
NO MORE HUMIDITY
PROBLEMS!
Is your home too humid?
Occupant health and comfort at home are directly related to the
indoor humidity level.
If your home has a humidity problem, CMHC can give you some good
tips on how to correct the situation before it gets worse, for example:
■
Remember to open or close doors and windows.
■
Install exhaust fans in bathrooms or kitchens.
■
Seal entry points using weatherstripping and caulking to improve indoor humidity
conditions in the winter and reduce your heating costs.
For more tips or answers to your questions, get a free copy of the About Your House
series fact sheet entitled Measuring Humidity in Your Home, in English or French, by
calling 1-800-668-2642 or by visiting www.cmhc.ca
For more than 60 years, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been
Canada's national housing agency and a source of objective, reliable housing expertise.
30
6.
YOUR
APARTMENT
THE
INTEGRITY OF THE PREMISES
The tenant has certain responsabilities, like maintaining the dwelling’s integrity.
You have no right to change the physical lay out of the apartment. You
may not, in other words, add or knock down walls without the landlord’s
consent.
You have no right to change your locks without the landlord’s
consent. If you do so, you must secure the landlord’s permission
and give him or her a copy of the new keys.
If you change the colour of the walls or other parts of the
apartment, you must return it to the landlord in its original state
before leaving. Unless you made a previous agreement, the
landlord can bill you for repairs.
MAINTAINING
YOUR APARTMENT
Household garbage
In Montréal, household garbage is collected twice a week,
neighbourhoods except on holidays. Ask your municipality for
information about collection days. Ask the landlord or caretaker
where you should store your garbage until collection day. If you
want to throw out a large item, like a mattress, stove or
refrigerator, you must notify the city’s public services. For
information, call 514 872–3434 (City of Montréal).
The refrigerator and stove
The refrigerator and stove should be regularly cleaned.
To defrost the refrigerator, turn off the temperature control and leave the
door open.
Never remove ice with a knife or other sharp object. This could be
dangerous and might damage the appliance.
Regularly clean the filters of the fan above the stove.
31
The bathroom
Only put non–greasy liquids in the bathtub and sink, and
toilet paper in the toilet.
When you take a shower, put the shower curtain inside
the bathtub.
Clean the bathroom well. It is important for your
personal hygiene.
Laundry
Do not overload the washers and dryers.
Follow the rules posted in your building’s laundry room.
Hang your laundry in the bathroom. Never hang wet laundry over a wood
floor.
Hallways
Whatever the season, avoid leaving your shoes and boots in the hallway as
it interferes with cleaning, and blocks the passage way.
Ventilation
In winter, close your windows tightly after airing your
apartment. Even in winter it is important to air out your
dwelling to avoid excessive humidity. When you cook, turn on
the fan above the stove.
Air out the bathroom after taking a shower.
To avoid damage to your apartment, leave sufficient space between your
furniture and walls. Too much condensation can ruin the walls in your
apartment.
32
PUBLIC
SECURITY
911
AND PREVENTION
Emergency services
For emergencies in the Montréal area requiring the services of police,
firefighters, ambulances, hydro–electric and natural gas companies or
public works officials, there is one 24–hour number to call: 911.
Prevention
The Service de police de la Communauté urbaine de Montréal (SPCUM) is a
public service founded upon principles of community spirit which protects
citizens by preventing crime, tracking down suspects and bringing them
before the justice system.
If you live in Montréal and you are concerned about the safety of your
residence, call Tandem Montréal (Programme de sécurité urbaine de la Ville de
Montréal) at 514 522-2886. This non–profit organization will suggest ways
to feel more secure in your home and neighbourhood.
Check that your smoke detectors are working and replace batteries if
necessary.
Check that the portable fire extinguishers work and refill them if necessary.
Hold a meeting for family members and other occupants of the dwelling
and draw up an evacuation plan in case of fire. Find out where the
emergency exits are in your apartment and in the building. Keep these exits
accessible at all times.
If you live in Montréal and want information on fire prevention, phone
514 872–3800. In case of emergency, phone 911. For the other problems
call: 514 280-2222
OVERCROWDING
According to the City of Montréal’s Housing Code, you need 8,5 square metres
of living surface per person inhabiting a dwelling to avoid overcrowding.
33
UNHEALTHY
LIVING CONDITIONS
If you have cockroaches or other vermin (rats, etc.),
you should notify the landlord so he can have them
exterminated.
If necessary, notify the landlord by registered mail. Keep a copy of the letter
and the post office receipt.
If the landlord refuses to cooperate, phone the inspection and permits
department in your city. If you live in Montréal, you can phone
514 872–1111 or contact your tenant association (see the list in Chapter 10).
REPAIRS
You are responsible for damage caused by your negligence
(ie, you break a window).
Repairs arising from normal usage must be done by the
landlord (ie, your water heater leaks, etc.).
The tenant must allow the apartment to be checked. He or
she must also let the landlord enter the apartment to do the
repairs. On the other hand, the landlord must give you 24–hour notice.
The landlord must keep the dwelling in a condition fit for habitation.
If repairs must be made inside your apartment, notify the landlord by registered
mail if necessary. Remember to keep a copy of the letter and post office receipt.
You will find a model written notice in Chapter 9.
If the landlord refuses to make repairs, contact the Régie du logement or your
tenant association (see the list in Chapter 10).
EMERGENCIES
If the repairs are urgent (ie, a flood or lack of heat) and you cannot get in
touch with the landlord, you may proceed with the repairs yourself and
then deduct their cost from your rent.
But be careful: You cannot refuse to pay your rent while waiting for the
repairs to be done.
34
HELPFUL ADVICE
If you are having trouble convincing the landlord to respect your rights,
contact your local tenant association (see the list in Chapter 10).
It is always best to communicate with the landlord in writing, by registered
mail.
Always keep a copy of letters.
35
7.
MOVING
As was mentioned above, the date upon which leases usually end in Quebéc is
June 30. All, or almost all, residential moves take place on July 1, which is a
holiday (Canada Day). If you want to avoid inconveniences and problems,
plan your move ahead of time.
CHOOSING
A MOVER
Find out about the cost of moving services (do not think twice about
comparing prices!). Make sure that the mover you choose is insured to cover
any damage to your property, and reserve the moving company’s services as
soon as possible (one to two months before the moving date)
CHANGING
YOUR ADDRESS
Two to three weeks before the move, you should change addresses.
You may notify the Canadian Postal Services of your address change by
going to any post office in your city. Bring a piece of identification as the
postal clerk will ask for one. Your mail will be redirected to your new
residence on the date of your move, and for the following 6 months. You
will be billed for this service.
You should also notify the following institutions of your address change
by writing a letter or calling:
- Financial institution and credit card company
- Public services such as telephone, gas, electricity, cable television
- Federal and provincial ministers of revenue
- La Société de l’assurance–automobile
- La Régie de l’assurance maladie
- The company that ensures your apartment and car
- Newspapers or magazines to which you subscribe
- Clubs and associations to which you belong
- Your physician, dentist, optometrist and other professionals
- The Régie du logement if you are involved in proceedings
36
DON’T
FORGET
HYDRO–QUÉBEC
You must notify Hydro-Québec at least 7 days before the date of your move.
You can do so:
by telephone, by calling Customer Service at 514 385-7252
by mail, by filling out the detachable slip on the return envelope that
comes with your bill and sending it to us along with your payment
by Internet, at www.hydroquebéc.com/moving
By advising us in advance, you will no longer be responsible for paying the
electricity consumed at your old address once you have moved.
Read the meter yourself when you move!
Be sure to read the exact consumption on the day you move in/out, noting the
exact position of the hands on all four dials on the meter. Send Hydro-Québec
the readings you took at both your old and your new address.
Fee for change of address and for opening a file
If you already have an account with Hydro-Québec, the administrative fee for
a change of address will be $20. If you are opening an account with HydroQuébec for the first time, the fee for opening a file will be $50.
NATURAL GAS
Gaz Métro is a leading Québec energy company and one of
Canada’s largest natural gas distributors. In Québec, Gaz
Métro distributes natural gas to about 171,000 customers.
If you have any questions about Gaz Métro, please do not hesitate to contact us.
By telephone, by calling Customer Service at 514 598-3222 (Montréal) /
1 800-875-6202 (elsewhere in Québec)
Via the Internet, at www.gazmetro.com
Natural Gas
The underground distribution system directly supplies natural gas to homes,
businesses and industries. Many buildings use natural gas for heating housing
units and water and some apartments have ranges that work on natural gas. A
meter inside the building calculates the natural gas consumed and establishes
the bills. If you are a tenant, find out if the service is paid for by the owner. If
you are responsible for the bill, contact Gaz Métro Customer Service at 514598-3222 (Montréal)/1 800 875-6202 (elsewhere in Québec) to register the
37
bill in your name. An employee will read your meter about once every two
months.
Safety Rules
Natural gas is very safe. However, just as with any other kind of energy, like
electricity, gas or propane, there are safety rules and rules of conduct that have
to be respected.
A natural gas leak can be detected when there is a smell of rotten eggs. This
odour is detectable in a concentration as low as 1%. If you detect a suspicious
odour in your vicinity, it may be due to a natural gas leak. In that case, simply
follow these instructions:
1. Do not smoke.
2. Do not turn on or off any appliance or switch that might produce a spark
(doorbell, light switch, cell phone or any other electrical appliance).
3. If you are indoors, ventilate the room by opening doors and windows.
4. Leave the house.
5. Call 9-1-1 if this service is available in your region. If not, call 1 800-3618003. This service is in operation 24 hours a day.
Payment Options
In order to meet your needs, Gaz Métro offers various payment options,
including an equal payments plan and a pre-authorized automatic payment
plan.
You can also pay your bill via the Internet on the Website of your financial
institution. Or you can receive and pay your bill on the Canada Post Website.
Your balance will be considered paid when Gaz Métro receives your payment at
its offices. Please allow sufficient time for the transaction, depending on your
method of payment.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties and cannot pay your natural gas bill
on time, Gaz Métro can offer you the option of making instalment payments.
As soon as you receive a late payment notice, get in touch immediately with Gaz
Métro Customer Service at 514 598-3222 (Montréal)/1 800 875-6202
(elsewhere in Quebéc) to reach an agreement on a payment arrangement.
38
Energy Efficiency
Reducing the energy consumed to heat your home may be simpler than you
think. The best way is to use high performance, energy-efficient appliances.
However, if you are not planning to make renovations or replace your heating
appliances, there are some simple things you can do as a first step that can help
save energy.
As a Gaz Métro customer, you can take advantage of the programs1 offered by
the Energy Efficiency Fund (EEF). The EEF recommends several solutions for
reducing energy consumption.
Among those solutions, the EEF offers:
Éconologis program - a free evaluation of your home’s energy efficiency
The EEF, in partnership with the Québec Agence de l’efficacité énergétique, offers
low-income households which pay their own natural gas bill personalized
advice and the installation of products that help save energy.
Free heat reflector panels
The EEF also offers free heat-reflector panels for buildings heated with hot
water. They help reduce heating costs and improve comfort while reducing heat
losses.
High energy efficiency windows
The EEF grants financial assistance for the purchase of ENERGY STAR®
qualified windows patio doors. With this assistance, you can buy superior
quality products for the same price as standard products.
Assistance toward improving a home’s building envelope, including wall and roof insulation
and much more (Rénoclimat)
The EEF, in partnership with the Québec Agence de l’efficacité énergétique, pays part
of the cost of an evaluation to determine the energy improvements that can be
made. Following the evaluation, the EEF offers financial assistance for the
improvements made that help reduce natural gas consumption.
To learn more about these programs, contact the Energy Efficiency Fund:
By telephone, by calling 514 529-2216 / 1 866-529-2216
Via the Internet, at www.fee.qc.ca
1. The EEF programs are reserved for Gaz Métro customers whose homes are
principally heated by natural gas. The EEF programs are subject to change without
notice. Special conditions apply to each program.
39
8.
OTHER SERVICES
ELECTRICITY
In Québec, electricity is an essential service. Electricity is produced
and distributed by Hydro-Québec. The utility offers customers a
wide range of information and services, while ensuring the
confidentiality of your file.
Outages and emergencies, 24 hours a day: 1 800 790-2424
To report a power outage or an emergency involving the power system.
Moving
Notify us at least seven days before your move:
Online at www.hydroquebec.com/moving
By phone at 514 385-7252
Important: On the moving day, read the meter just before you vacate your
old premises, and again upon arriving at your new residence. You can submit
your change of address notice as well as your meter readings online or by
phone. In the Montréal area, call 514 385-8503.
File administration charges:
If you already have an account in your name, you will be charged $20.
If you are opening your first account, you will be charged $50.
1 800 ENERGIE (514 343-7443)
A special energy efficiency information service.
Equalized Payments Plan (EPP)
Free service offered by Hydro-Québec that allows you to pay the same amount
for your electricity every month. The amount is reviewed and adjusted twice a
year to reflect your actual consumption.
Paying your bill
You choose how to pay:
Online at Hydroquebec.com
By automatic debit
Through your financial institution, at the service counter or
by automatic teller
By mail, by sending a cheque in the reply envelope provided
Payment arrangements
If you’re having financial difficulties and can’t pay your electricity bill, HydroQuébec will allow you to pay by installments.
Call 1 877 377-7890 and avoid problems.
40
WHY ENERGY EFFICIENCY?
Today’s context of consumer optimism and strong industrial and business
growth is driving up demand for electricity in Québec. In meeting this increased
demand, Hydro-Québec is exposed to rising up supply costs, which raises
electricity rates.
Daily efforts to conserve energy have been shown to slow the growth in
demand. That’s why we at Hydro-Québec have long been encouraging
customers to watch their electricity consumption. And it’s a top priority,
because we can see measurable results. In fact, if people were using the same
technologies and had kept the same habits today as in 1990, we would need
an extra 23.5 terawatthours to meet the energy needs of Québec. That’s
equivalent to the electricity used by 1,125,000 households!
Being energy wise means practising energy efficiency. How? By modifying your
behaviour and making small changes that will benefit all of society for
generations to come. By using energy-efficient appliances and adopting energysaving habits.
Electronic Thermostats: for comfort and saving
If you heat your home entirely or partly using electric baseboards, you could
enjoy greater comfort and substantial energy savings by replacing your
conventional thermostats with electronic ones.
You can buy programmable and non-programmable electronic thermostats from:
Retailers (hardware stores, renovation centres)
Master electricians
If you need help choosing a model, consult your local retailer or a master
electrician. Some suppliers have Web sites that offer product information.
Installation – Under the provisions of the Québec Building Act, thermostats
must be installed by a certified member of the Corporation des Maîtres Électriciens
du Québec (CMEQ). You can fin useful information about this on the CMEQ
Web site : www.cmeq.org/accueil/Rep_Membre_Affichage.asp
ENERGY STAR Household Appliances
Today’s household appliances are much less power-hungry than those built 20,
15 or even 5 years ago. So purchasing a new one is a perfect opportunity to cut
down on your energy consumption. How can you tell which models are the
most efficient? Look for the ENERGY STAR symbol when you buy.
If you replace all your appliances with new ENERGY STAR qualified models,
you’ll save energy and money for as long as they last. And if you make a few
41
simple changes like washing your laundry in cold water, you’ll save even more.
Now imagine if each one of Québec’s 3,000,000 households did the same. It’s
easy to see how choosing ENERGY STAR and changing certain habits can make
a big difference!
Shedding some light on compact fluorescents
Did you know that lighting accounts for 5-10% of a household’s total energy
consumption? Hydro-Québec encourages you to replace you incandescent
light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Here are four good reasons
to choose CFLs:
Longer life
They last up to ten times longer than incandescent bulbs.
Less energy
CFLs are better than incandescent bulbs for the environment, consuming
up to 75% less energy to produce the same amount of light.
Same amount of light
Their light output is equivalent to that of standard incandescent bulbs.
Variety of models and designs
They are suitable for most indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures.
To learn more about using energy efficiently, visit
www.hydroquebec.com/residential/index.html
Or call 514 363-7443
Montréal area
1 800 363-7443
Elsewhere in Québec
I extend to you
my warmest welcome
to the county
PIERRE ARCAND
DEPUTY
OF MONT-ROYAL
42
HOUSING
INSURANCE
If you are renting an apartment, the landlord leaves it to you to insure your
property.
Insurance companies offer an assortment of insurance policies to provide you
with the protection you desire:
The basic policy, which only protects you from theft;
Another policy, which protects you from what agents call “the 13 basic
risks” (eg. fire, theft, vandalism, freezing of your heating system, smoke,
etc.);
A third policy which protects you from all types of accidental damage
such as your sewage system backing up, accidents in the home, etc.
Before signing an insurance contract, estimate the value of ALL your property
(furniture, books, records, electrical appliances, clothes, knick–knacks) and
estimate the amount of money you would need to replace it. Do not
under–estimate the value of your property! Insurance will be calculated on the
basis of your estimate. If you are the victim of fire or theft, your insurance
company will reimburse you the value of your destroyed or stolen property up
to the total value of the property you previously declared. Remember to keep
bills and photographs of your property in a safe place.
Insurance companies also offer a “new–purchase” deals. This means that they
will pay you a sum equal to the current
new value of your property, and not to
the depreciated value (taking into
account usage rates).
Deputy of LaFontaine
Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister
Parliament House
1045, rue des Parlementaires
Bureau RC. 35
Québec (Québec) G1A 1A4
Telephone : 418-644-0871
Fax:
418-641-2668
District address
11977, Avenue Alexis-Carrel
Montréal (Québec) H1E 5K7
Telephone : 514 648-1007
Fax :
514 648-4559
Email : ttomassi@assnat.qc.
Before signing an insurance policy, ask
an agent to explain carefully the different
types of contracts. Do not hesitate to
ask questions. Read the insurance
policy thoroughly. It will help you avoid
problems should a disaster occur.
Civil liability is included in your housing
insurance and covers all accidents
involving third parties in your apartment.
It also covers damages you might cause
to someone else’s property (ie, you
damage the building in which your
apartment is located).
43
TELEPHONE,
WIRELESS, DIGITAL
TV,
AND INTERNET
Welcome to Vidéotron! We
invite you to take advantage of
one of the most advanced
integrated communications lineups anywhere. Thanks to our reliable state-ofthe-art fiber optic network, we bring you the best in home entertainment and
communications.
We’d be happy to serve you, and we promise to give our all to provide you with
the best products, technology, and customer service experience possible.
Meet all your telecom needs
Our array of services enables us to cover all your needs, from Internet access to
TV (Classic Cable, Illico Digital TV, and Video on Demand) and digital phone
(Cable Telephony, Wireless, and Softphone).
Vidéotron simplifies your life
Only Vidéotron can do all this:
One bill
Each month for all your services.
One customer service department
Just one number to reach us for all your questions or for whatever reason.
One technician connects every services
And when that technician leaves your house, everything works perfectly.
Call our customer service department today.
We’ll answer all your questions and create a custom package to match your
needs, preferences, and budget.
Don’t wait. Call 514-281-1711 or 1 88-VIDEOTRON.
Raymond Bachand
Deputy of Outremont
Minister of Economic Development,
Innovation, and Export Trade
Minister of Tourism
Minister responsible for the Montréal region
5450 ch. de la Côte-des-Neiges
Suite 115
Montréal (Québec) H3T 1Y6
Tel. (514) 482-0199
44
9.
MODEL LETTERS
MODEL
LEASE NON–RENEWAL LETTER
Use this model to notify the landlord of your intention to leave the dwelling at the
end (expiry) of the lease. The letter must be sent to the landlord by registered mail
(ask for proof of mailing). If your lease is for 12 months, sent the letter between
three and six months before the end of the lease.
Date:
(landlord’s name and address)
___________________
___________________
___________________
___________________
Dear Sir, Madam,
I would like to inform you that I will not be renewing my lease. I shall leave my
apartment when the lease ends on the (date)________________.
________________________________
(your signature)
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
(your name and address)
45
MODEL
LETTER FOR RENEWING YOUR LEASE
AND REFUSING A RENT INCREASE
This letter notifies the landlord that you wish to remain in the dwelling but that you
refuse the rent increase requested by the landlord. It must be sent to the landlord by
registered mail (ask for proof of mailing). You have a delay of one month to respond
to the landlord.
Date :
(landlord’s name and address)
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________
Dear Sir, Madam,
I would like to inform you that I am renewing my lease but I refuse the rent increase and
changes you have requested.
________________________________
(your signature)
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
(your name and address)
46
MODEL LEGAL NOTICE
You can send this letter if a serious problem arises which is not rectified by the
landlord. If the landlord persists in doing nothing to help you, you may file a
complaint with the Régie du logement. This letter should be sent to the landlord by
registered mail (ask for proof of mailing).
Date:
(landlord’s name and address)
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
Dear Sir, Madam,
I am experiencing the following problems in my apartment and\or building:
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
I am giving you notice to rectify these problems in the 10 days following the posting of
this letter. If you fail to do so, I shall institute legal proceedings including a request to
deposit my rent with the Régie du logement.
________________________________
(your signature)
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
(your name and address)
47
NOTICE
TO ASSIGN THE LEASE
Notice to
________________________________________________________________________
Name of landlord
________________________________________________________________________
Name of landlord
Address of leased premises: ________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
You are hereby notified that I intend to assign the lease to:
_______________________________
________________________________
Name and address of the proposed assignee
Name and address of the proposed assignee
__________________________________
__________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
(Telephone number)
(Telephone number)
The assignment of the lease will take effect on (tick off the applicable square)
the landlord accepts the assignment
if the date is later, as of
__________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Name of the lessee
Signature
(Date)
(Telephone number)
________________________________________________________________________
Name of the lessee
Signature
(Date)
(Telephone number)
________________________________________________________________________
(To be used if given by hand (person to person)
I, the undersigned, acknowledge receipt of the above notice to assign the lease,
On _____________________ _____________________
Signature of the landlord
______________________
Signature of the landlord
Notice given pursuant to article 1870 of the Civil code of Québec RDL-802A-E (98-06)
Significant information
Practical advice
The landlord may not refuse to consent to
the assignment of the lease without a serious
reason.
If the landlord refuses, he must inform the
tenant of his reasons for refusing, within
15 days after receiving the notice.
Otherwise, he is deemed to have consented
to the assignment.
The assignee becomes tenant and the former
tenant is acquitted of his obligations.
To quickly inform the proposed assignee,
the landlord should send him a copy of the
answer to the tenant.
To be sure of the nature of the agreement, the
tenant and the proposed assignee should sign
an assignment of lease agreement.
To carry out a contract of transfer we
recommend that you consult the housing
committee of your borough (see chapter 10)
or directly the Régie du logement at 514 8732245.
48
10.
FOR MORE
INFORMATION
TENANT ASSOCIATIONS
(OR HOUSING COMMITTEES)
What happens when the apartment you rent has hidden defects? Living
conditions are unhealthy or it is infested with vermin (cockroaches, mice) and
the landlord refuses to rectify the situation?
You have problems dealing with the landlord or with other tenants in the
building and this conflict lowers your quality of life and threatens your personal
security?
Tenant associations (or housing committees) exist in each district of Montréal.
These organizations are in charge of defending tenants’ rights (landlord\tenant
relations) and can offer you active support in your dealings with the landlord
(rent increases, major repairs, etc.) Do not hesitate to contact the tenant
association nearest to you. For telephone numbers of local tenant associations
or housing committees, phone the Regroupement des comités logement et des
associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ) in Montréal at 514 521-7114.
Ahuntsic- Cartierville
- Comité logement Ahuntsic – Cartierville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 331-1773
Anjou, Rivière des Praires, Pointe-aux-Trembles, Montréal Est
- Infologis de l’est de l’Ile de Montréal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 354-7373
Côte-des-Neiges – Notre Dame de Grâce
- Organisation d’éducation et d’information logement . . . . . .514 738-0101
Côte-des-Neiges
- Comité logement du conseil communautaire . . . . . . . . . . .514 484-1471
Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
- Projet Genèse Côte-des-Neiges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 738-2036
Lachine – Lasalle – Verdun
- Comité logement Lachine-Lasalle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 639-8070
- Comité d’action des citoyennes et citoyens de Verdun . . . .514 769-2228
Le Plateau Mont-Royal – Centre-Sud
- Comité logement du Plateau Mont-Royal . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 527-3495
- Comité logement Centre-Sud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 521-5992
Le Sud-Ouest
- POPIR Comité logement Saint-Henri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 935-4649
- RIL de Pointe St-Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 932-7742
49
Mercier – Hochelaga – Maisonneuve
- Comité Bails Hochelaga – Maisonneuve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 522-1817
- Entraide logement Hochelaga – Maisonneuve . . . . . . . . . . .514 528-1634
Montréal Nord - St-Léonard
- Comité Logement Montréal Nord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 852-9253
- Action Dignité St-Léonard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 251-2874
Rosemont – Petite- Patrie
- Comité logement Rosemont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 597-2581
- Comité logement de la Petite-Patrie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 272-9006
Villeray – Saint- Michel – Parc Extension
- Association des locataires de Villeray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 270-6703
- Carrefour populaire de Saint-Michel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 722-1211
- Comité d’action de Parc-Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 278-6028
Autres villes de la région métropolitaine
- Longueuil: Comité logement Montérégie . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 670-5080
- Laval: ACEF de l’Ile Jésus Volet logement . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 662-0255
For telephone information concerning the entire Montreal area call:
Info secours logement at 514 488-0412 and 514 990-0190
A
FEW OWNER
ASSOCIATIONS
- Association des propriétaires du Québec (APQ)
50, boul. Crémazie Ouest, Montréal (Québec) H2P 2T2 . . . . . . . . . . 514 382-9670
- Corporation des propriétaires immobiliers du Québec inc. (CORPIQ)
960, boulevard Sainte-Croix
Ville Saint-Laurent (Québec) H4L 3Y8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 748-1921
NON–GOVERNMENT
ORGANIZATIONS
(NGOS)
Organizations funded by the Ministère des Relations avec les citoyens et de
l’Immigration du Québec (MRCI) exist to welcome newcomers and help them
settle in. These organizations offer multilingual information,orientation,
reference, accompaniment and interpreting services in areas like housing,
employment, twinning, translation, French courses and the like. They can also
help you with official procedures like applying for immigration and welfare.
Do not hesitate to call these organizations. They are in a position to help you,
often in your native tongue.
Contact :
Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL)
6555, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bureau 400
Montréal (Québec) H3S 2A6
Telephone: 514 341-1057 Fax: 514 341-8404
50
Ahuntsic-Cartierville
Carrefour d’aide aux nouveaux
arrivants (CANA)
10780, rue Laverdure
Montréal (Qc) H3L 2L9
Telephone: 514 382-0735
Centre d’appui aux communautés
immigrantes de BordeauxCartierville (CACI)
4770, De Salaberry, bureau 201
Montréal (Qc) H4J 1H8
Telephone: 514 856-3511
Côte-des-Neiges—
Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
Projet Genèse
4735, Côte Sainte-Catherine
Montréal (Qc) H3W 2R8
Telephone: 514 738-2036
PROMIS (Promotion –
Intégration-Société nouvelle)
3333, Côte Sainte-Catherine
Montréal (Qc) H3T 1C8
Telephone: 514 345-1615 /
514 345-1616
Services canadiens d’assistance
aux immigrants juifs (JIAS)
5400, Westbury 2e
Montréal (Qc) H3W 2M8
Telephone: 514 342-9351
Service d’interprète et d’aide aux
réfugiés indochinois (SIARI)
6767, Côte des Neiges
Montréal (Qc) H3C 2T6
Telephone: 514 738-4763
Le Plateau-Mont-Royal –
Centre-Sud
Centre communautaire des
femmes sud-asiatiques
1035, Rachel Est, 3e étage
Montréal (Qc) H2J 2J5
Telephone: 514 528-8812
Centre d’action sociocommunautaire de Montréal
32, boul. Saint-Joseph Ouest
Montréal (Qc) H2W 1W3
Telephone: 514 842-8045
L’Hirondelle, Services d’accueil et
d’intégration des immigrants
4652, rue Jeanne-Mance, 2e étage
Montréal (Qc) H2V 4J4
Telephone:514 281-2038
Le Sud-Ouest
Centre social d’aide aux
immigrants (CSAI)
6201, rue Laurendeau
Montréal (Qc) H4E 3X8
Telephone: 514 932-2953
Comité d’éducation aux adultes
de la Petite-Bourgogne et
de St-Henri (CEDA)
2515, rue Delisle
Montréal (Qc) H3J 1K8
Telephone: 514 596-4422
Mercier—Hochelaga-Maisonneuve
Accueil liaison pour arrivants (ALPA)
1490, av. de La Salle
Montréal (Qc) H1V 2J5
Telephone: 514 255-3900
LaSalle
Centre de promotion, référence,
information et services
multiethniques (PRISME)
414, rue Lafleur, #110
Montréal (Qc) H3R 3H6
Telephone: 514 364-0939
Montréal-Nord
Centre d’action bénévole
Service d’accompagnement aux
nouveaux arrivants
4640, rue Forest
Montréal (Qc) H1H 2B3
Telephone: 514 328-0494
51
Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie
Bureau de la communauté
haïtienne de Montréal (BCHM)
6970, rue Marquette
Montréal (Qc) H2E 2C7
Telephone: 514 725-9508
Service d’aide et de liaison La
Maisonnée
6865, av. Christophe-Colomb
Montréal (Qc) H2S 2H3
Telephone: 514 271-3533
Saint-Laurent
Centre d’accueil et référence pour
immigrants de Saint-Laurent (CARI)
1179, boul. Décarie
St-Laurent (Qc) H4L 3M8
Telephone: 514 748-2007
Saint-Léonard
Accueil aux immigrants de
l’Est de Montréal
5960, Jean-Talon Est, app. 110
Montréal (Qc) H1S 1M2
Telephone: 514 723-4939
Ville-Marie (Centre-ville)
Centre des femmes de Montréal
3585, rue St-Urbain
Montréal (Qc) H2X 2N6
Telephone: 514 842-0814
Centre d’orientation paralégale et
sociale pour immigrants (COPSI)
82, boul. Saint-Joseph Ouest
Montréal (Qc) H2T 2B5
Telephone: 514 729-7098
Service à la famille chinoise du
Grand Montréal
987, Côté, 4e étage
Montréal (Qc) H2Z 1L1
Telephone: 514 861-5244
52
Union française
429, rue Viger Est
Montréal (Qc) H2L 2N9
Telephone: 514 845-5195 /
514 861-7841
Villeray—Saint-Michel—
Parc-Extension
Carrefour latino-américain (CLAM)
7290, rue Hutchison, 2e étage
Montréal (Qc) H3N 1Z1
Telephone: 514 271-8207
Maison d’Haïti Inc.
8833, boul. St-Michel, 12e étage
Montréal (Qc) H1Z 3G3
Telephone: 514 326-3022
Rive-Nord
Carrefour d’intercultures de Laval
3200, boul. du Souvenir Ouest,
bur. D-108
Laval (Qc) H7V 1W9
Telephone: 450 686-0554
Rive-Sud
Maison internationale
de la Rive-Sud (MIRS)
2152, boul. Lapinière, bur. 220
Brossard (Qc) J4W 1L9
Telephone: 450 445-8777
Carrefour La Moutier
100, Place Charles-Lemoyne,
bur.121-A
Longueuil (Qc) J4K 2T4
Telephone: 450 679-7111
Laurentides
Le COFFRET
181 Rue Brière
St-Jérôme (Qc) J7Y 3A7
Telephone: 1 450 565-2998
PUBLIC
AND GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS
CITY
OF MONTREAL
WWW.HABITERMONTREAL.QC.CA
TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE CITY OF
7 DAYS A WEEK, CALL 311
MONTRÉAL
THE CITY OF MONTREAL IS DIVIDED
INTO 19 DISTRICTS
Ahuntsic-Cartierville
Anjou
Côte-des-Neiges—Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
Lachine
LaSalle
Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
Le Sud-Ouest
L’Île-Bizard—Sainte-Geneviève
Mercier—Hochelaga-Maisonneuve
Montréal-Nord
Outremont
Pierrefonds-Roxboro
Rivière-des-Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles
Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie
Saint-Laurent
Saint-Léonard
Verdun
Ville-Marie
Villeray—Saint-Michel—Parc-Extension
OR ANY DISTRICT
THE ISLAND OF MONTREAL IS
DIVIDED INTO 15 BOROUGHS
Baie d’Urfé . . . . . . . . . . 514 457-5324
Beaconsfield . . . . . . . . . 514 428-4400
Côte-Saint-Luc . . . . . . . .514 485-6800
Dollard-des-Ormeaux . . .514 684-1010
Dorval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 633-4040
Hampstead . . . . . . . . . . .514 369-8200
Kirkland . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 694-4100
Ile-Dorval . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 636-1571
Montréal-Est . . . . . . . . . .514 645-7431
Montréal-Ouest . . . . . . .514 481-8125
Mont-Royal . . . . . . . . . . .514 734-2900
Pointe-Claire . . . . . . . . . 514 630-1200
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue . .514 457-5500
Senneville . . . . . . . . . . .514 457-6020
Westmount . . . . . . . . . .514 989-5200
Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse
360, rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal (Qc) H2Y 1P5 . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 873-5146
Services Québec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 644-4545
Ministère de l’Immigration et des communautés culturelles. . 514 864-9191
Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM)
415, rue Saint-Antoine Ouest, 2e étage
Montréal (Qc) H2Z 1H8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 872-6442
Régie du logement
5199, rue Sherbrooke Est, bur. 2095
Montréal (Qc) H1T 3X1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 873-2245
Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL)
1100, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest, 1er étage
Montréal (Qc) H3B SJ7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 283-2222
Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM)
425, rue Sherbrooke Est, bureau 01
Montréal (Qc) H2L 1J9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 380-7436
Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ)
500, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest, 5e étage
Montréal (Qc) H2Z 1W7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 800 463-4315
53
TEMPORARY
FOR
SHELTERS IN THE
MONTREAL
AREA
NEWCOMERS
Name:
Maison de chambres Poincaré
Address:
11989-11999, rue Poincaré
Telephone: 514 341-1057, # 204 or 514 947-8834
Clientele:
Men
Cost:
From $290 per month
Response time: Immediate
Name:
Maison Prud’homme
Address:
3429, rue Prud’homme
Telephone: 514 341-1057, # 204 or 514 947-8834
Clientele:
Women
Cost:
From $300 per month
Response time: Immediate
Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Cost:
Clientele:
Mission communautaire de Montréal / Montreal City Mission
1435, rue City Councilors
514 844-9128 Fax: 514 844-0067
Free
Refugee claimant without revenue or government aid
Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Cost:
Clientele:
PRAIDA (Previous name SARIMM)
5700, ch. de la Côte-des-Neiges, 3e étage
514 731-8531 Fax: 514 731-2552
Free
Refugee claimant without revenue or government aid
FOR
YOUNG PEOPLE
Name:
Service d’hébergement Saint-Denis
Telephone: 514 374-6673
Cost:
$7 per day
Clientele:
From 15 to 20 years old
Response time: 2 to 3 days
FOR
54
WOMEN
Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Clientele:
Résidence Maria-Goretti
3333, ch. de la Côte Sainte-Catherine
514 731-1161 Fax: 514 342-8337
Women 18 to 40 years old
Name:
Address:
Telephone :
Clientele:
YWCA-Résidence
1355, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest
514 866-9941 Fax: 514 861-1603
Women
Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Clientele:
Secours aux femmes
C.P. 22150, CSP St-Marc, Mtl Qc H1Y 3K8
514 593-6353 Fax: 514 593-7241
Immigrant women with or without children
MAP OF THE METRO NETWORK
55
This document was prepared by:
Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement
(ROMEL)
6555, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bur. 400
Montréal (Quebéc) H3S 2A6
Telephone: 514 341-1057
Fax: 514 341-8404
Web site: www.romel-montreal.ca
Coordination (2004-2008 edition)
Mazen Houdeib
Corrections, updating and translation (2008 edition)
Dona Daher, Rana Jaroudi, Pierrette Daignault
Graphics and printing (2008 edition)
inc.
5500 Fullum Street, suite 212, Montréal (Quebéc) H2G 2H3
Tel.: 514 279-8256
© 2008
Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement
(ROMEL)
Printed in the 1st quarter of 2008
ISBN: 978-2-922703-07-8
All rights reserved / 5th edition - Bibliothèque nationale du Québec, 2008.
This guide book is also available in French and Spanish.
56
We would like to acknowledge the generous contribution of the members of
the production team. Their expertise, advice and sustained participation
enabled the project to be realized.
Special thanks to:
M. Mohammed-Labri Bennis, Political Attaché - MICC
Mme Michèle Hudon, Communications Advisor- MICC
M. Robert Madore, President and CEO- SHQ
M. André Filion, Vice-President, Public Affairs and Administration - SHQ
Mme Patricia Lord, Communications Consultant- SHQ
M. Bernard Blanchet, Borough Counselor (Lachine) - Ville de Montréal
M. Jean-Jacques Bohémier, Political Attaché - Ville de Montréal
M. Denis Quirion, Manager / Community Housing Projects- Ville de Montréal
M. Martial Fillion, General Manager - SHDM
M. Frédéric Deslongchamps, Director of Real Estate Development- SHDM
M. Fabien Cournoyer, General Manager - OMHM
Mme Louise Hébert, Communications Director - OMHM
M. Pierre Bourbonnière, Marketing Director - STM
Mme Marie Murphy, Senior Advisor- SCHL
Mme Sarah Dandenault, Senior Advisor - SCHL
M. Marcelin Hudon, Coordinator - AGRTQ
M. Ouali Fodil, Advisor - Hydro-Québec
M. Marc Audet, Vice-President, Immigrant Investors Program Fiducie Desjardins
M. Ronald O’Narey, Advisor - Fonds en efficacité énergétique
M. François Lefebvre, Advisor- Gaz Métropolitain
Mme Claudie Brassard, Senior Manager, Communication Marketing Vidéotron
Mme Andrée Losier, Brand Manager - Vidéotron
57
Le Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL) is a
non profit organization specializing in housing and immigration. Created in
1984, ROMEL groups together 44 ethno-cultural organizations in Montréal
that help new immigrants find accessible and affordable housing. In
collaboration with its organization members, ROMEL tries to improve housing
conditions for cultural communities.
Along with its organization members, ROMEL eases the integration of new
Montrealers by:
- a computorized directory indicating apartment vacancies. Over 100 private
owners register their apartments every month;
- temporary housing. Over 40 rooms are available in the Bordeaux-Cartierville
and Notre-Dame-de-Grâce districts, at an affordable cost;
- information sessions on housing offered to new immigrants and
NGO workers;
- information, orientation and reference;
- developement and management of affordable housing projects;
- access to private property;
- developement of child care centers;
- developement of community real estate projects.
Do not hesitate to call or visit our offices. ROMEL’s multilingual staff will be
pleased to serve you in 10 languages.
ROMEL
6555, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bureau 400
Montréal (Québec) H3S 2A6
Tel.: 514 341-1057
Fax: 514 341-8404
Web site: www.romel-montreal.ca
Annexes :
La Maison POINCARÉ
11989-11999, rue Poincaré, Montréal (Québec) H3L 3L6
Tel.: 514 341-1057 # 204 ou 514 947-8834
Fax: 514 341-8404
La Maison PRUD’HOMME
3429, rue Prud’homme, Montréal (Québec) H4A 3H6
Tel.: 514 341-1057 # 204 ou 514 947-8834
Fax: 514 341-8404
58
Notes :
59
Notes :
60
Notes :
61
Notes :
62
Notes :
63
Notes :
64