Tenant left without notice or damaged the unit: what to do next

When a tenant leaves without notice or causes damage, first confirm lawful possession, protect the building, and preserve dated evidence. Compare move-out condition with the move-in record and separate ordinary wear from compensable damage. The landlord must also mitigate the loss by making reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit promptly.

How do you confirm departure without taking possession unlawfully?

A quiet unit or unpaid rent alone does not prove abandonment. Try the agreed contact methods, record dates, check whether keys were returned, and gather objective indicators without intrusion. If possession remains uncertain, ask the TAL or a legal professional whether an order is required before taking the unit back.

How do you separate damage, cleaning, and ordinary wear?

Article 1890 of the Civil Code of Québec requires the tenant to return the premises in the condition received, except for changes caused by age, ordinary wear, or superior force. Normally aged paint is therefore different from a deliberately punctured wall or equipment broken through negligence.

Which rent losses and expenses may be claimed?

The TAL provides an application for re-rental indemnity and damages for claims following abandonment. Depending on the evidence, a landlord may claim lost rent, reasonable re-rental costs, and tenant-caused property damage.