Properly informing your tenants: One of the pillars of harmonious rental management

It is important to remember that a landlord has a legal obligation to provide a safe dwelling, in good condition, that the tenant can enjoy for the entire duration of the lease. It is also strongly recommended to take the time to properly inform tenants about their rights and responsibilities. As a rental property manager or landlord, properly informing your tenants is also a way to prevent gray areas (and therefore conflicts!) and to ensure sound rental management.

Why properly informing your tenants is essential

When tenants understand their rights and obligations from the beginning of the tenancy, they are more likely to respect the terms of the lease and maintain a good relationship with you. Clear and transparent communication fosters a climate of trust and reduces the risk of disputes. Properly informing your tenants also helps ensure stable occupancy and a harmonious environment for all residents.

A concrete example can be found in the area of maintenance and repairs to be carried out in the dwelling. Although the landlord is responsible for most of the required measures, the tenant has a duty to carry out routine maintenance of their unit so that it remains clean. It is also their responsibility to inform you if more significant maintenance is needed in the dwelling. To clarify the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants, we have developed this practical guide, intended for both landlords and tenants, to provide the right information and clarify each party’s rights and obligations depending on the situation (maintenance, major work, damage claims, etc.).

What a tenant should know when signing the lease

At the time of signing the lease, it is recommended to clearly explain the lease addendums and other information summarizing the tenant’s main obligations: respecting the premises, rent payment terms, specific conditions (such as no smoking or no pets), proper use of common areas, and so on. The tenant should also be informed of the procedure to follow in the event that urgent repairs are required.

It is also relevant to review common reminders and explain local rules or building-specific regulations: waste management, noise standards, access to certain facilities such as a laundry room, etc. The clearer these elements are explained, the less ambiguity there will be.

We also recommend taking into account each tenant’s particular situation. If a tenant is settling in Quebec for the first time, it may be helpful to explain certain aspects of dwelling maintenance, such as the recommended indoor temperature depending on the season or the proper use of water (for example, using a shower curtain or avoiding pouring large amounts of water onto the floor during cleaning). These tips, which may seem obvious to some, may be heard for the first time by individuals coming from elsewhere. Preventive communication can therefore help avoid unintentional damage and encourage responsible occupancy of the dwelling.

An ongoing responsibility, not a one-time task

Informing a tenant does not end at lease signing. Throughout the tenancy, the landlord must continue to provide relevant information: planned work, changes in services offered, reminders of building rules, and so on. This transparency helps prevent misunderstandings and maintain effective management.