Termination of a lease in the event of domestic violence

On September 27th, Coroner Me Laurence Sarrazin filed her report in the context of the investigation following the murder of Nancy Roy by her violent ex-partner. On February 23, 2021, Nancy Roy was found dead in her apartment in Saint-Hyacinthe. Coroner Sarrazin's investigation revealed that Mrs. Roy had wished to terminate her rental lease because she considered her relationship with her ex-spouse to be acrimonious and dangerous for her safety.

There is a provision in the law that allows a tenant to terminate his or her tenancy when he or she is in a situation of domestic violence. Thus, it was recommended to intensify the awareness of rental landlords in Quebec of the rights of tenants in such circumstances. Let us recall that CORPIQ had fully collaborated to Coroner Sarrazin's investigation. Obviously, we take note of the recommendations and initiatives will be developed in order to accompany landlords in these difficult circumstances.

Our employees are aware of the law and will provide judicious advice to CORPIQ members. We invite our members to to revisit this web page where, earlier this year, we dealt with the issue of lease termination in cases of sexual assault or domestic violence.

This issue shows that landlords and managers of Quebec's rental housing stock are increasingly being called upon in difficult social situations. This reinforces the importance of the support to our community organizations and to better equip CORPIQ members. This is an issue that should attract the attention of the new Minister of Housing.

 

Source article: Violence conjugale: un recours pour résilier son bail aurait pu la sauver