What is a dwelling or housing?

A dwelling is basically where you live. It's your home or house, the place where you stay for a while. It's your safe and private space that keeps you safe and away from the outside world

How to find a place to live?

To find a place to live, you can do a few things:

1. Ask people you know or check newspapers to see if there are any availablehomes in the area you like.

2. Figure out how much money you can spend on your home, including rent, electricity, and heating costs.

3. Make a list of homes that fit your needs and budget.

4. Call the owners to ask about any special rules or requirements.

5. If everything looks good, set up a visit to see the place.

6. Before you move in, make sure you know what's in your rental agreement and keep a copy for yourself

If you need help finding a place?

Think about what you need in a home, like how many rooms or if pets are allowed.
Figure out your budget for rent, utilities, and such.
Contact a housing office nearby that can help you find a place.
Visit the place and learn about the rules.
Prepare to move in.

Rules & Rights

When you live in a place, whether you found it on your own or with help, you need to:

Pay your rent on time.
Fix any damage you cause.
Don't change the place without permission.
Be a good neighbor and don't disrupt others.
Keep the place in good condition.

You also have rights:

You can refuse to live in an unhealthy place.
You can do necessary repairs if the owner doesn't.
You can complain if things aren't right.
If your income is low, you might get a rent discount.

To have a good experience, be friendly with your neighbors, talk nicely to the owner, try to solve problems with other tenants, and join in on building activities if you can. If you can help your neighbors, do so, like running errands or helping with heavy stuff.

What goals can I set myself to find a place and benefit from peaceful enjoyment ?

I searching for dwelling
I wave to my neighbors when I pass them;
I respectfully address the owner and my neighbors ;
Before taking action, I contact the other tenant(s) to resolve any discrepancies;
When I am invited, I participate in activities organized by neighbors, or by the building committee;
If I am able or available, I help my neighbors: run errands for them, help them transport heavy things…

Set your goals!

What is the HLM housing program ?

The HLM program is a way to get affordable housing where your rent is based on how much you earn. HLM tenants pay about 25% of their income as rent, and it includes heating costs.

This type of housing is in buildings run by the Quebec Housing Corporation and managed by your local Municipal Housing Office.

How can I get low-income housing?

Low-income housing (HLM) is for people or families with lower incomes. To qualify:

You must be 18 or have legal emancipation.
You should be able to meet basic needs on your own or with some help.
You need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Quebec.
Your household income can't be more than what the government sets.

Then, you can check your local Municipal Housing Office's website for the service center in your area.

Steps to apply

1. Choose the type of organization you prefer (like a cooperative or non-profit).

2. Pick your search criteria and the number of results to display.

3. Look through the list of organizations and note down the ones that interest you.

4. Apply for admission, either by yourself or with someone.

Respect your responsibilities as a tenant:

1. Pay your rent on time as stated in your lease.

2. Fix any damage you cause to the property.

3. Don't change the place without permission, like building or demolishing walls.

4. Don't disrupt your neighbors.

5. Leave the place in the same condition you got it.

Make sure your rights are protected:

1. You have the right to refuse unsanitary housing.

2. You can do necessary repairs if the owner doesn't.

3. Complain to the owner or the Administrative Housing Tribunal if things aren't improving.

4. If you're in low-income housing, you can get a rent reduction if your income drops.

Documents

Infographics

External help