Short-term rentals, particularly through platforms like Airbnb, have become a hot topic in Quebec, especially in Montreal. In 2025, stricter regulations aim to better control this practice and reduce its impact on the housing market and quality of life in condominiums. Find out what the law allows, what condominium syndicates can enforce, and how these new regulations affect both property owners and tenants.
- Regulations in Quebec: What the law says in 2025
In Quebec, short-term rentals are regulated by the Tourist Accommodation Act. If you plan to rent out your unit through Airbnb, Vrbo, or similar platforms, here’s what you need to know:
- Mandatory certification from the Corporation de l’Industrie Touristique du Québec (CITQ).
- Short-term rentals limited to primary residences (secondary properties cannot be rented out).
- Mandatory display of the certification number on all online listings.
- Heavy fines for non-compliance, ranging from $1,000 to $100,000.
Important: A condominium syndicate has the right to completely prohibit short-term rentals through its declaration of co-ownership. Many condo buildings implement this rule to maintain peace for permanent residents.
- New regulation in Montreal: Airbnb banned in 2025 :
Due to the rise in residential properties being converted into short-term rentals, Montreal has implemented a strict ban on Airbnb outside specific periods.
- What changes in 2025?
- Complete ban on Airbnb rentals outside the summer season.
- Permitted rental period: June 10 to September 10 only.
- Municipal permit required ($300 fee) for those renting during this period.
- Severe penalties for violations:
- $1,000 per night for individuals renting illegally.
- $2,000 per night for businesses violating rental rules.
- Why this ban?
- Combat the housing shortage in the city.
- Reduce disturbances for condo residents (noise, frequent guest turnover).
- Protect the residential market and curb speculation.
📌 Impact on Condos: Syndicates can rely on this new regulation to strengthen their own restrictions and prevent issues related to short-term rentals.
🔗 Read the official announcement from the City of Montreal.
- Impact of short-term rentals in condominiums :
While short-term rentals can be a source of income, they also create several challenges for condominium management:
- Security and common area access :
- Unknown guests coming in and out pose potential security risks.
- Difficulties in controlling access to entrances, elevators, and shared spaces.
2. Disruptions for condo owners :
- Excessive noise: Parties, late-night comings and goings.
- Maintenance issues: Increased mess and wear-and-tear on common areas.
- Disregard for condo rules by short-term tenants.
3. Increased management costs :
- Higher maintenance costs for common areas (elevators, lobbies, parking).
- Increased insurance premiums due to higher risks of damage.
- More frequent conflicts and complaints between residents.
- How can condo syndicates regulate Airbnb?
To maintain harmony, a condo syndicate can enforce strict measures:
✔️ Complete ban on short-term rentals via the co-ownership regulations.
✔️ Minimum rental period (e.g., no leases under 6 months).
✔️ Fines for violators and reporting to authorities.
✔️ Access control measures to prevent unauthorized guests.
💡 Tip for Condo Owners: Always check your condo’s declaration of co-ownership before listing your unit for short-term rental.
- Should condominiums completely ban Airbnb?
-Benefits of short-term rentals:
- Additional income for owners.
- Increased property value in high-tourism areas.
-Disadvantages and risks:
- Frequent conflicts with full-time residents.
- Legal risks if short-term rentals are prohibited by the condo or city.
- Decreased property value in buildings negatively affected by Airbnb activity.
-The ideal solution? A balanced approach that respects both property owners’ rights and the well-being of full-time residents.
Conclusion: Key takeaways on Airbnb in condominiums in 2025 :
- Regulations are getting stricter: Montreal has banned Airbnb year-round, except in summer.
- Condo syndicates can enforce their own short-term rental bans.
- Owners must verify regulations before renting their unit.
- A balance is needed between rental opportunities and quality of life in condominiums.
👉 Are you a condo owner looking to better regulate short-term rentals?
📞 Contact Condo Stratégis today for professional guidance!