Chronicle for seniors
Rent increases
Published May 14, 2025 by Estephany Fernandez Suero. Journal de Chambly.
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 services and accessories included in the lease. 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.
Residents who receive a lease renewal proposal that includes a rent increase they consider abusive have the right to refuse this lease modification. All they have to do is send their response to the residence within one month of receiving notice of the 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.
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 PSRs, “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 on the basis of the previous tenant’s rent “without the discount”.
The PSR manager, like any landlord, cannot pressure residents or threaten to terminate the lease if they refuse the 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.
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.
