Sanitation, maintenance and safety of dwellings

The city has established residential sanitation standards to ensure that Montréal residents enjoy a good quality of life. Compliance with these standards is primarily a question of good faith and dialogue. It is incumbent upon owners and tenants alike to assume their responsibilities when it comes to the quality of their housing. 

Sanitation standards for dwellings and homes

Minimal sanitation conditions concern the following elements:

• maintenance
• dwelling dimensions
• lighting
• ventilation
• sanitary fixtures
• plumbing
• electrical system
• heating system 

These standards are also intended to deal with problems that arise, including:

• uncleanliness
• deterioration of a dwelling or a balcony
• the presence of dead animals
• storage or use of products or materials that emit noxious odours or toxic fumes
• obstructed means of evacuation
• ice or condensation on an indoor surface other than a window
• vermin, rodents, insects or visible mould, and conditions that promote their proliferation

Basic equipment for a dwelling

A dwelling must be equipped with a drinking water supply system as well as plumbing and heating systems, which must be kept in proper working order at all times.

Maintenance

All parts of a building must be maintained in good condition. They must have an adequate load-bearing capacity and must be repaired or replaced as required.

Maintenance standards take into account the following elements:

• surfaces and heights
• windows and lighting
• ventilation
• break-in resistance
• areas and configuration of spaces and rooms

Maintenance tips

Whether you are an owner or tenant, there are numerous things to consider in order to maintain a healthy and safe living environment.

 Find out what you need to watch out for in your building or dwelling unit. Also, take a look at how you can prevent or correct problems.