Rent increases
Published on February 7, 2025 by Estephany Fernandez Suero. Journal Les Versants, page 8.
The lease renewal period is a crucial time for any tenant. This moment can also be a source of anxiety for some. What should I do if I receive an increase that seems excessive? Can the landlord evict me if I refuse such an increase? These are frequently asked questions to CAAP Montérégie’s caregivers.
From the outset, it should be pointed out that private seniors’ residences are subject to the same laws and regulations as any other housing. RPPs are unique in that they offer personal services. On the other hand, the definition of “rent” includes all lease-related services and accessories. Therefore, the rent increase is calculated with the total amount that includes services. The rights and procedures associated with an increase remain the same as for ordinary housing.
A resident who receives a lease renewal proposal that includes a rent increase he or she considers abusive has the right to refuse the lease modification. All you have to do is send your response to the residence within one month of receiving the notice of rent increase. It is very important to keep proof that the residence has received the tenant’s reply.
A “Tenant’s Response to Notice of Increase and Modification of Other Lease Conditions” form is available on the Housing Administrative Tribunal website. And don’t forget: proof that the owner has actually received the reply is important.
From the outset, it should be pointed out that private seniors’ residences are subject to the same laws and regulations as any other dwelling.
It is then the responsibility of the residence manager to attempt to negotiate with the tenant, or to apply to the Administrative Housing Tribunal to have the rent fixed within one month of the refusal.
In the event of negotiations, the resident is under no obligation to accept the agreement proposed by the owner if he or she has previously refused the increase. Increasingly common in RPPs, “rent rebate” increases are popular. This phenomenon also exists in the ordinary rental sector, but to a lesser extent. Basically, this artificially inflates landlords’ profits, which is good for resale and can also be useful when the tenant leaves. This property will be re-let, based on the previous tenant’s rent “without the discount”.
The RPP manager, like any landlord, cannot pressure residents or threaten to terminate the lease if they refuse his proposal. Tenants have the right to refuse a rent increase while remaining in their dwelling, subject, of course, to the refusal process.
For this type of process, it’s a good idea to be accompanied by someone you can trust, as these processes generate a great deal of anxiety in people of all ages, but especially seniors. You can also contact us at 450 347-0670, ext. 108, for assistance.
