Looking for a place to live a guide for new immigrants.
Transcription
Looking for a place to live a guide for new immigrants.
2008 Edition A guide for new immigrants Looking for a place to live... This guide has been given to you by: Welcome to Montréal! The Regroupement des Organismes du Montréal Ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL) is pleased to present to you its 2008 edition of the guide ‘Looking for a place to live’. Practical and updated information will help you find your apartment and get acquainted with the by-laws of the housing industry and your new city home. Publication of this booklet was made possible through the sponsorship of various partners. We particularly wish to mention the valuable participation of the Ministère de l’Immigration et des Communautés Culturelles (MICC), the Ministère des Affaires municipales et des Régions (MAMR), the Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ), the City of Montréal, Hydro-Québec, the Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SDHM), the Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM), the Société Canadienne d’Hypothèque et de Logement (SCHL), the Fédération des Caisses populaires Desjardins, the Société de Transport de Montréal (STM), Gaz Métropolitain, the Fonds d’efficacité énergétique (FEE), and Vidéotron. Mazen Houdeib, General Director of ROMEL MAYOR’S MESSAGE Welcoming and promoting the integration of newcomers implies providing tools that will help them find ways to meet their basic needs. This Guide is one of these essential tools, aiding them to answer the question: “How to find a place to live in Montréal?” It provides an inventory of numerous resources to consult for information on a host of subjects, including access to public housing and home ownership. It also contains a wealth of information on local customs that, while not actual rules, nevertheless influence the behavior of Montrealers with regard to housing and how to be a good neighbor. A warm welcome to all those who have chosen to live in Montréal. 3 CONTENTS 1. WELCOME TO MONTRÉAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 • Discovering Montréal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 • Some statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 • How to get around in Montréal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 2. YOU’VE JUST ARRIVED... WHAT DO YOU DO FIRST? • Organizations that can help you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 • Where to sleep the first night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 • Useful tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 • What rent should you pay? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 • Finding the “right” apartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 • Discrimination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 3. LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO LIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 • Becoming a tenant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 • The Régie du logement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 • Becomig a homeowner and securing a mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 • Public housing organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 4. VISITING AN APARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 • The condition of the apartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 • Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 • Noise and services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 • Helpful advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 • Watch out! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 5. THE LEASE AND RENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 • The lease: a serious commitment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 • Problems during the lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 • The rent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 • The rent increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 • Renewing or ending your lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 4 6. YOUR APARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 • The integrity of the premises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 • Maintaining your apartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 • Public security 911 and prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 • Overcrowding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 • Unhealthy living conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 • Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 • Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 • Helpful Advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 7. MOVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 • Choosing a mover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 • Changing your address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 • Don’t forget Hydro–Québec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 • Natural Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 8. OTHER SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 • Electricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 • Housing insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 • Telephone, wireless, digital TV, and Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 9. MODEL LETTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 • Model lease non–renewal letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 • Model letter for renewing a lease and refusing a rent increase . . . . . . . . .46 • Model legal notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 • Notice to assign the lease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 10. FOR MORE INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 • Tenant associations (or housing committees) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 • A few owner associations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 • Non–government organizations (NGOs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 • Public and government organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 • Temporary shelters in the Montréal area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 5 Baie d’Urfé Beaconsfield Kirkland Pierrefonds Roxboro Dorval Saint-Laurent Hampstead Rosemont– La Petite-Patrie Ville-Marie Côte-des-Neiges– Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Verdun Le Sud-Ouest Westmount Outremont Le PlateauMont-Royal Mont-Royal LaSalle Lachine Côte-Saint-Luc Montréal-Ouest L’Île-Dorval Pointe-Claire Ahuntsic-Cartierville Villeray– Saint-Michel– Parc-Extension Saint-Léonard Montréal-Nord MONTRÉAL URBAN COMMUNITY Dollard-Des Ormeaux L’Île-Bizard– Sainte-Geneviève Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Senneville 6 Montréal-Est Les villes de banlieue reconstituées au 1er janvier 2006 La Ville de Montréal et ses arrondissements au 1er janvier 2006 Mercier– Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Anjou Rivière-des-Prairies– Pointe-aux-Trembles 1. WELCOME TO MONTRÉAL DISCOVERING MONTRÉAL Montréal is the largest municipality in Quebéc. As you may have noticed, the City of Montréal is situated on an island: the Island of Montréal, which is divided into 19 districts and 15 boroughs. (Refer to page 53) The Greater Montréal Area includes the City of Montréal as well as the north and south shores of the island of Montréal. The City of Laval, the second largest municipality in the area, is located on the north shore, while the city of Longueuil is the south shore’s largest municipality. SOME STATISTICS: Population in 2006 The Greater Montréal Area City of Montréal 3 635 571 habitants 1 854 442 habitants In 2006, the immigrant population (permanent and non-permanent residents) numbered 740 355 people in the Greater Montréal Area. These new Montréalers are a source of cultural wealth and contribute to the economic development of the Montréal area. Welcome to the county of l’Acadie 7 HOW TO GET AROUND IN MONTREAL The best way to get around in Montréal is to use the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) bus and Métro systems. For a minimal cost, you can travel the entire Island of Montréal from east to west and from north to south. The STM bus system includes over 190 lines, including 20 on night service. The Métro system consists of four lines (green, orange, yellow and blue) serving 68 stations. Trips are paid most often by a monthly pass or a weekly pass, with tickets or in cash.* Transfers between the bus and Métro are free and valid for 90 minutes. Transit passes can be purchased at Métro stations or from more than 500 depositaries throughout the Island of Montréal. Maps of the Métro and bus systems are available free of charge at Métro stations. For more information on STM services, routes and fares: With one station located in Longueuil and three in Laval, the STM Métro system lets you connect with the Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) and Société de transport de Laval (STL) bus services. In addition, certain intermodal stations offer connections to the Agence métropolitaine de transport (AMT) commuter train system. For more information on the other carriers’ rates and routes: AMT www.amt.qc.ca 514 287-8726 RTL www.rtl-longueuil.qc.ca 450 463-0131 STL www.stl.laval.qc.ca 450 688-6520 Welcome to Montréal! * In 2008, the STM will put new transit passes into circulation, including a contactless smart card. For more information, visit the STM website. 8 2. YOU’VE JUST ARRIVED... WHAT DO YOU DO FIRST? ORGANIZATIONS THAT CAN HELP YOU Welcome groups and immigration organizations, partners of the Ministère des Relations avec les citoyens et de l'Immigration (MRCI), may offer you services in your native tongue and ease your integration into the Montréal area. Chapter 10 of this guide contains a list of these non–government organizations (NGOs) for each of the districts of Montréal and for other municipalities. WHERE TO SLEEP THE FIRST NIGHT No one can stay for long at a hotel without having large sums of money at their disposal. Finding an appropriate first dwelling at an affordable price is every newcomer’s first priority. At first, it’s worth your while to find temporary lodging in a furnished dwelling (apartment or room) rented by the week or month. This way, you can begin the process of finding a residence better suited for your long–term needs. Choose a dwelling in a central location, or one close to public transportation services, to facilitate your search. Most newspapers publish lists of vacant dwellings according to category: apartments, sublets, rooms for rent, dwellings to share, etc. Some welcome groups and immigrantion organizations run shelters and transition houses for newcomers. Rent for these dwellings is much more affordable than the cost of a hotel or motel. You will find a list of temporary shelters in Chapter 10. USEFUL TIPS You will no doubt read offers for a 2 1/2, a 3 1/2 and a 4 1/2. These numbers refer to the number of rooms in the dwelling, including the kitchen. The bathroom accounts for the “half.” A 5 1/2 thus APPARTEMENTS consists of three bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room À LOUER and a bathroom. APARTMENT FOR RENT 21/2, 31/2, 41/2 INFORMATION: TÉL. : 341-1057 9 Furthermore, the terms “equipped” or “semi–furnished” indicate that basic electrical appliances (ie, stove and refrigerator) are supplied and included in the rent. Likewise, the terms “heated” or “unheated” tell you if heating costs are included in the rent. You should also be aware that you can get a neighbourhood telephone book listing all the resources available locally. This book may be obtained free of charge in Accès Montréal offices. WHAT RENT SHOULD YOU PAY? Ideally, the total budget allocated for housing (including the rent, heat and electricity) should not exceed 30% of your gross income (before income-tax). Before you rent a dwelling, write out a budget taking into account the rent of the dwelling in which you are interested. You will then be in a position to know if you are capable of shouldering the expense. FINDING THE “RIGHT” APARTMENT Read the newspapers (La Presse, Le Journal de Montréal, The Gazette, Voir, Mirror) and the classified advertisements in neighbourhood papers. Walk around in the neighbourhood that interests you. Some landlords do not list vacancies in the newspapers. Make use of your network of acquaintances: friends, colleagues, family, organizations from your cultural community or consult welcome and assistance organizations for newcomers (see detailed list in Chapter 10). Visit a few apartments. This will help you to make an informed and appropriate choice. You might also consider renting with others. Two or more people can jointly sign the same lease in order to share the cost of housing. This practice, which is very common in Quebéc, is perfectly legal. Choose your co–tenants carefully before agreeing to rent with them. The newspapers have “apartment to share” listings. 10 DISCRIMINATION The right to be free of discrimination when you rent an apartment is guaranteed by the Quebéc Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. « Every person has a right to full and equal recognition and exercise of his human rights and freedoms, without distinction, exclusion or preference based on race, colour, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, civil status, age except as provided by law, religion, political convictions, language, ethnic or national origin, social condition, a handicap or the use of any means to palliate a handicap. (The Charter, article 10) » A landlord cannot refuse to rent to you for the reasons listed above. If you belong to a group frequently targeted by discrimination, you must be careful when looking for an apartment. Owners will want to know if you are a good tenant. Do you always pay your rent on time? Do you respect your tenants’ obligations? If you believe that you are being denied a dwelling because of your race, ethnic origin, religion, nationality or sexual orientation, this constitutes a discriminatory act under article 10 of the Charter. You may register a complaint with the Comission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse. You can contact the CDPJ in Montréal at 514 873–5146. 11 3. LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO LIVE IN MONTRÉAL In the private sector, apartments belong to individuals or to private organizations (corporations, housing cooperatives, non–profit organizations). Public sector apartments belong to the government. Public low–income housing is one example. There are approximately 25 000 low–income units on the island of Montréal. BECOMING A TENANT The rental market is made up of every apartment for which a rent is payable. When you rent an apartment you become a tenant and the person who owns the dwelling is the owner (also called the landlord or lessor). Several types of dwellings can be rented: the term “apartment” applies to units in large buildings, while the term “dwelling” applies to units in smaller buildings (2 to 6 units). A building with two units is called a duplex, one with three, a triplex. There are two main categories of landlords: small–scale owners: they have only a few dwellings, generally live in the same building as their tenants and take care of maintenance and renting dwellings. They usually do not list all their vacancies in the daily newspapers but post a sign on the door of their building to attract a more diligent group of tenants. large–scale owners: they have a large number of dwellings and generally do not live in their buildings. A caretaker is responsible for maintenance and renting the apartments. They often announce vacancies in the newspapers. They may also entrust the management of their apartments to specialized firms. THE RÉGIE DU LOGEMENT The residential rental market is regulated by the Loi sur l’habitation and falls under the jurisdiction of the Régie du logement. The Régie du logement is the organization delegated by the Quebéc government to oversee the rental market. The Régie du logement is an administrative tribunal. 12 The Régie du logement’s main role is to inform citizens of their rights and obligations, to promote agreement between parties to a lease, to hear disputes when amicable settlement is impossible and, last but not least, to promote harmonious relations between landlords and tenants. For more information, you may reach the Régie du logement in Montréal by telephoning 514 873–2245 or www.rdl.gouv.qc.ca BECOMING A HOMEOWNER AND SECURING A MORTGAGE Private ownership is one way people can control their housing conditions. People who buy a property can arrange it according to their needs; this is not always possible when one rents a dwelling. The real estate agent: A good real estate agent should save you time and troubles. You can transact with the vendor’s real estate agent or can hire someone to work exclusively for you. Potential buyers should negotiate a mortgage loan from a financial institution. The interest rates of financial institutions vary according to the mortgage term selected by the borrower. The buyer will generally be asked for an initial deposit of 20 to 25% of the real estate price. It is important to remember that the purchase will result in additional charges (notary fees, the localization certificate, professional evaluation costs, a first tax instalment, a first insurance payment, moving costs, etc.). For more information, contact one of the owner associations listed in Chapter 10. Certain government programmes assist and promote home ownership. The Mortgage-Guarantee programme can allow a person to buy a first home with little (less that 20% of property value) or no deposit. On payment of an insurance premium, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provides mortgage, the amount of which can reach up to 100% of the value of the property. The buyer has to be a permanent resident (landed immigrant) or a Canadian citizen. In the city of Montréal, for example, the program Access to a private property offers a financial aid of $6500 for an applicant with no children on one condition that the purchase price of the property must not exceed $180 000 tax included. For an applicant with at least a child under 18 years old, the financial aid will be $10 000 but the purchase price must not exceed $235 000 tax included. For mor information on the (Access to a private property) program please call 514 872-4630. There are several types of private ownership, the best–known of which are individual ownership and co-ownership. 13 Individual ownership This type of ownership involves a single dwelling occupied by one owner. Individual ownership is most commonly associated with the single–family house (bungalow, cottage, semi–detached and row–house). Certain buildings contain more than one dwelling, one of which is occupied by the owner while the other(s) is\are occupied by tenant(s). Often, families and couples become owners of a first house by purchasing a small building, like a duplex or triplex. Co–ownership Divided co–ownership, more commonly known as “condominium,” is the type of ownership in which one person becomes exclusive owner of the dwelling in which he or she lives and sometimes of a lot of land. The owner shares certain spaces and the grounds around the building with other co–owners. Undivided co–ownership gives each co–owner a right of ownership not only over his or her dwelling, but also over the entire building and lot of land. A written agreement between co–owners determines who will have exclusive use of each part of the building. This is the least expensive way to become a home owner. Building taxes are lower than they are for condominiums. On the other hand, problems could arise if the various co–owners disagree over the management of the co–ownership or when one of the owners decides to sell his right. PUBLIC HOUSING ORGANIZATIONS To ensure the proper functioning of the residential market, the three levels of government (municipal, provincial and federal) have combined their efforts and set up various support programmes. Since 1946, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been the federal body responsible for housing issues. Under the National Housing Act (NHA), this public corporation must “encourage the construction of new houses, the repair and renovation of existing houses, and the improvement of housing and living conditions.” To attain these objectives, the CMHC creates and offers services, and develops and institutes programmes aimed at promoting the stability of the housing market, assisting Canada’s low–income population and helping to build a housing sector that is at once dynamic and sensitive to society’s needs. Over the last few years, the federal government has developed a set of defined principles with regards to housing. These principles include fairness, supporting the private sector, respecting diversity, environmental quality, cooperative efforts and the efficient use of public resources. 14 CMHC’s strategies are not limited to programmes of expenditure and the more traditional areas of activity (ie., underwriting mortgages and applying a social housing programme). Increasingly, CMHC is relying on other techniques such as research, pilot projects, consultations, information sharing and partnerships. This change matches new conditions evolving in government capacity, in housing and in society at large. CMHC has become an active specialist–catalyst which, in its capacity as federal housing agency, assists Canadians in finding a home. You can contact CMHC in Montréal at 514 283–2222 www.schl.ca La Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ) strives to improve the housing conditions of Québecers by supporting residential construction, renovation and adaptation programs. The SHQ works in collaboration with partners, including municipalities, housing bureaus, non-profit agencies, housing cooperatives, landlords, building contractors, public sector partners and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Since its creation in 1967, the SHQ has introduced a number of programmes aimed primarily at low-income households and people with special housing needs, such as families, seniors with slightly diminishing independence, and people with disabilities. The SHQ is responsible for preparing and implementing housing policies and programs. Its mission is: to facilitate access to proper housing conditions for the citizens of Québec; to promote better overall housing conditions in Quebéc; and to foster the development and promotion of Québec’s housing-related expertise. The SHQ is the Québec Government’s principal housing advisor, and falls under the authority of Nathalie Normandeau, Vice-Premier and Minister of Municipal Affairs and the Regions. For further information on the SHQ and on the types of housing assistance available, please call 1 800 463-4315 or visit www.habitation.gouv.qc.ca. 15 L’Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM) is a nonprofit paramunicipal organization that manages more than 20,000 low-income housing units on the island of Montréal. L’Office also administers the rent subsidy program (Programme de supplément au loyer) which offers non-profit or private market dwellings to low-income households who register. Living in a low-rent housing unit (HLM) enables low-income families and individuals to live in a decent dwelling while paying only 25% of their income. Living in a HLM also ensures tenant stability, security and more means to get essential needs like food and clothing. To be eligible for social housing, people who apply must meet the following conditions: Be a Canadian citizen or have a permanent resident status in Canada. Be 18 years or older. Have been living in the Montréal Metropolitan Community (MMC) for 12 consecutive months during a 24 months period. The applications are evaluated after assessing different factors such as the applicant’s income, the cost of his rent, the number or residents versus the apartment size required, the ranking on the waiting list, etc. Since 2003, the OMHM has also been building affordable housing units where the predetermined rent is lower than the market. The Office intends to build 1,250 units as part of the City of Montréal’s Solidarité 5,000 logements operation. For more infomation: 514 872-6442 or www.omhm.qc.ca La Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM) is a non-profit organization whose mission includes offering affordable housing. The SHDM has an inventory of some 5,600 housing units that are spread throughout the various neighbourhoods of Montréal and that meet the needs of both families and singles. Over half of these housing units are managed by housing cooperatives or non-profit organizations from local communities. In January 1, 2007, the SHDM and the Société de développement de Montréal (SDM) were grouped together so that all aspects of management and real estate development in Montréal now come under one and the same responsibility. Moreover, the SHDM plays a role in carrying out municipal housing objectives through specific projects that the City assigns it, such as the Accès Condos program, which facilitates access to affordable properties. 16 For further information, to rent housing or to obtain information on the Accès Condos program: 514 380-SHDM (7436) www.shdm.qc.ca www.alouer.shdm.org www.accescondos.org Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM) 425, rue Sherbrooke Est, bureau 01, Montréal (Québec) H2L 1J9 Association des groupes de Ressources Techniques du Québec Community housing, an alternative for your housing needs For the last 24 years, the Regroupement des Organismes du Montréal Ethnique pour le Logement (ROMEL) has been devoted to helping new immigrants find confortable housing. With a professional, well experienced technical resources group, ROMEL is committed to the development of community housings, tailored to the needs of cultural communities and their families. Community housing is not just any lodging, but rather a durable and affordable form of collective ownership that residents have control over. About 5% of the social housing stock in Quebéc has been developed under community housing cooperatives (Co-op) and non-profit organizations (NPO). In a housing co-op, residents collectively hold and maintain their residential building. The co-op is democratically controlled by its tenants whom are considered as members and who have an equal decision making power in all matters relating to their habitat. Members of the co-op are expected to be involved in all tasks and activities relating to the management of their building because their participation helps ensure that rents are closest possible to operating costs. As for non-profit organizations (NPOs), these are managed by the residents living there, as well as volunteers. Generally, NPOs are reserved for social groups living specific difficulties in finding accommodation such as the elderly, the homeless, single persons, single-parent mothers, etc. Similar to housing coops, the NPO’s mission is not to make profit, but to provide superior quality housing at a very affordable price 17 The GRTs, Community Builders Technical Resource Groups, or their French acronyms Groupes de Ressources Techniques (GRT), are non-profit organizations specialized in supporting groups of people in the development of their commucal property projects. They develop housing that corresponds to the particular needs of persons with lowto-modest income in Quebéc. In their multiple interventions and approaches, the dynamic teams of GRTs take to heart the communities’ value for ownership and their right for proper living conditions. Over the last 30 years, the GRTs’ endless effort and dedication have helped realize 55,000 housing units all over Québec. In addition to the above, GRTs offer a wide array of other services such as organization, coordination, technical and administrative support, and training throughout the various development phases of the projects. Furthermore, GRTs provide tailored training needs, general direction and superior management for co-ops, NPOS, and other community organizations. L’Association des groupes de ressources techniques du Québec (L’AGRTQ) Founded in 1989, the AGRTQ unites 24 technical resource groups (GRTs) that are divided to serve all the regions and towns of Quebéc. The AGRTQ is a major player in the field of community housing. It works in partnership with various networks and representatives involved in matters of social and community housing. Its remarkable efforts led to the creation and establishments of government programs related to the development of community housing such as AccèsLogis Québec and Affordable Housing Québec. For more information regarding community housing, contact ROMEL at 514 341-1057, or visit the AGRTSQ’s web site: http://www.agrtq.qc.ca Housing made accessible Low-rental housing: Affordable Housing and residences for seniors: 18 19 4. VISITING AN APARTMENT THE CONDITION OF THE APARTMENT When you visit an apartment, ask yourself the following questions: Does the rent include hot water, electricity and heat? If not, what is the monthly cost of these services? Are the stove and refrigerator included? Are they in good working order? Is there a laundry room? If not, where is the closest laundromat? Is it possible to install a washing machine and dryer in the apartment? ? What floor is the apartment on? Is there an elevator? Are there enough windows to allow adequate light and ventilation? Do the doors and windows open and close properly? Remember how cold Quebéc winters can be! If you have children, make sure the dwelling is large enough to accommodate the whole family. Is there a place where the children can play safely outdoors? Is the building well–maintained? Does the dwelling need to be repainted? If yes, who will do it –– you or the landlord? Who will pay, and when? Are the kitchen and bathroom in good condition? Are they functional? Check the windows of the dwelling. Check the doors of the refrigerator and oven. Also note the condition of the plumbing. Are there cockroaches or other vermin? Have you written all the information concerning the dwelling? 20 SECURITY Is there a caretaker? Is the main entrance always locked? Is there an emergency exit? Are there smoke detectors, an alarm system and fire extinguishers? Are the locks in good working order? NOISE AND SERVICES Is the building quiet? Do you hear your neighbours walking, talking? Do you hear noise from the street? What services exist near your dwelling? Banks, post office, laundromat, grocery stores, other stores, schools, parks, bus and metro services, Centre local de services communautaires (CLSC). To obtain the address of the CLSC nearest to you in Montréal, call 514 644-4545. HELPFUL ADVICE Always try to visit an apartment twice, during daylight hours because defects are more visible and in the afternoon for noise. Do not hesitate to ask other tenants if they are satisfied with their lodgings. Bring a paper and pencil. Note down all repairs that must be made. Write them into the lease along with the date of execution. In this way, you have proof of the landlord’s promise. If repairs are subs-tantial we suggest that you look elsewhere for your dwelling. Does the apartment satisfy all your requirements? Are you ready to bind yourself by signing a lease? 21 WATCH OUT! Occasionally, the landlord might ask you to fill out a form containing certain information to evaluate your financial capacity as a tenant. This form may entail a commitment on your part. You may be undertaking to sign the lease should the landlord accept you. Certain confidential information such as your social insurance number, the name of your employer and other data may be requested by the landlord. Remember that you are NOT OBLIGED to give anyone this information and that the landlord cannot refuse to rent you a dwelling because you have not furnished this information. To prove your financial solvency, bring the landlord proof that you have the necessary funds to pay your rent (receipts from your former landlord, payed public service bills, etc.). If you are a newcomer, you may also supply letters of recommendation (from an organization in your cultural community, a representative of your church, etc.). 22 5. THE LEASE AND RENT On January 1st, 1994, the Civil Code of Quebéc was amended. These amendments changed certain aspects of the lease. For more information, phone the Régie du logement in Montréal, at 514 873–2245. If you speak neither English nor French and want to be accompanied while visiting a dwelling or signing a lease, ask a welcome organization for newcomers to help you (see the detailed list of organizations in Chapter 10). THE LEASE: A SERIOUS COMMITMENT A contract between two parties A lease is a contract binding the landlord and tenant to each other for its entire duration. Two copies of the standard lease, produced by the Régie du logement, are supplied by the landlord. Take the time to read the ENTIRE lease before signing! The landlord must give you one copy of the lease in French or English. The duration of a lease is generally 12 months (one year). The tenant may, however, negotiate the length of the lease with the landlord. Tenants commit themselves for the entire period for which they have signed. In Quebéc, most leases start on the first of July and finish June 30th of the following year. Your main commitments ✔ The tenant must respect all his / her obligations for the entire duration of the lease. ✔ The tenant must pay the rent on the first day of each month, or on the first day of each pay period. ✔ The tenant must maintain the dwelling in clean condition. ✔ The tenant must respect all obligations concerning security and health in the dwelling. ✔ The tenant and people he or she admits into the building must behave in such a manner so as not to bother other tenants of the building in the normal enjoyment of the premises. ✔ The tenant cannot change the dwelling or use it for purposes other than those for which it was rented. 23 ✔ If the tenant wants to leave the dwelling he or she must, in a specified period, advise the landlord in writing of the termination of the lease. He or she must leave the premises and return the dwelling to the landlord in the same condition it was received. ✔ The tenant cannot allow overcrowding of the dwelling to such a degree that municipal and other regulations regarding health, safety and dwelling occupation standards (Régie du logement Act) are violated. Your landlord’s main commitment ✔ The landlord must allow you into the dwelling on the date stipulated in the contract, under acceptable conditions of cleanliness (ie., the dwelling must meet rental housing standards). ✔ The landlord is responsible for delivering and maintaining the premises in good condition. He or she must respect all laws and regulations regarding maintenance, safety, health and all other regulations. A tenant who suspects that a law or regulation has been broken may call the municipality. The municipality will, if need be, send an inspector so that the situation can be rectified. If a law has been broken, the tenant may take legal action for damages, but he or she must first give the landlord written legal notice. ✔ The landlord must guarantee proper enjoyment of the premises. This obligation includes the duty to maintain the premises in their original form and use for the duration of the lease. If the landlord changes the use of the premises (eg., by replacing a first–floor grocery store with a video arcade) the tenant can contact the Régie du logement. Be careful before you sign! ✔ Make sure the landlord gives you the rules of the building, if there are any. ✔ Check what is included in the lease (electricity, hot water, heating, stove, refrigerator, etc.) and make sure the landlord writes them in the “additional clauses” section of the lease. ✔ Make sure promises to repair, dates of completion and other details discussed with the landlord are written in the lease, in the “additional clauses” section. ✔ Make sure that the landlord has not increased the rent unreasonably from the amount paid by the previous tenant, this should be written in the “Notice to the new tenant” section. ✔ Ask to see the lease of the former tenant to verify the previous rent. If there is a big difference between the old rent and that which you are being asked to pay, you may contest the rent increase, at the Régie du logement, within a short period of time. 24 PROBLEMS DURING THE LEASE Delays for contestation If the previous rent is written in the lease, you have 10 days after signing the lease to contest your new lease and rent. If the information is incorrect, you have two months to contest dating from the moment you become aware of the falsehood. If the landlord has not written the former rent in your lease, you have two months following the commencement of the lease to ask the Régie du logement to fix a reasonable rent. It is always best to obtain hard proof of the old rent. (Model letters refer to chapter 9) XXX ÉAL MONTR QUÉBEC Leaving your dwelling during the lease There are many ways of leaving a dwelling during a lease: you can resiliate your lease, transfer your lease or sublet your dwelling. In the last two cases you must find a tenant. Resiliation of the lease: This is possible in certain cases specified by law. A resiliation can also occur when the landlord and tenant agree to end the lease before its expected termination. A written document signed by both parties is required as proof of resiliation. Subletting: If the landlord refuses to resiliate the lease, you can look for a subtenant or person who will replace you and live in the dwelling. If you sublet, you are still legally responsible to the landlord. Should you opt for this strategy, you should phone the Régie du logement (514 873–2245) or a housing or tenant committee (see the list in Chapter 10) for more information, as you will have to fulfil certain T legal requirements. EMEN LOG ER S-LOU À SOU T TO SUBLET Assigning the lease: Assigning a lease occurs when MEN APART you transfer a lease to a new tenant. Unlike subletting you are no longer legally responsible because the name on the lease is no longer your own. If you opt for this solution, contact the Régie du logement (514 873–2245) or a housing or tenant committee (see the list in Chapter 10) for more information, as you will have to fulfil certain legal requirements. Abandoning the dwelling: This is generally a tenant’s last choice. Abandonment is legal only when the dwelling constitutes a serious risk for its occupants’ health or safety. Abandonment is illegal when done for any reason other than the two mentioned above. Before considering abandoning the dwelling, ask for help and advice from a housing or tenant committee (see the list in Chapter 10); if the abandonment of a dwelling is done for the wrong reasons you may suffer serious consequences. 25 Watch out! Before abandoning a dwelling: - Find a witness to come and examine the problem. - Send a registered letter to the landlord explaining the problems with the dwelling and informing him or her of your intention to leave. You may notify the landlord of your intention before leaving or in the 10 days following the abandonment. - Keep copies of your letters as well as proof they were sent by registered mail. If the landlord contests your abandonment at the Régie du logement you will need your letters and witnesses as evidence. ATTENTION: You cannot simply abandon the dwelling without notifying the landlord! Contact your tenant association or the Régie du logement for advice. Let us suppose that you find another, more suitable dwelling, or that you have to leave town. If there is nothing seriously wrong with your present dwelling you must negotiate with the landlord to resiliate the lease. Can the landlord ask you to leave the dwelling? Once you have signed the lease, you have a right to stay in your dwelling as long as you like, provided you respect your obligations. The landlord may, however, request resiliation of the lease in the following circumstances: You fail to respect your obligations. For example, you neglect to pay your rent or pay it late; you do not maintain your dwelling; you interfere with the peaceful enjoyment of the premises. The landlord must file a complaint against you with the Régie du logement before evicting you. Only the Régie du logement can force a tenant to leave a dwelling. The landlord wishes to make major repairs. In this case, the tenant may return to his dwelling once the repairs are finished. The tenant has a right to damages. The landlord repossesses the dwelling. A landlord may request repossession only for his or her own use or for the use of a family member for whom the landlord is financially responsible. If you suspect that the landlord is evicting you for reasons other than the two stated above, refuse the repossession in writing. The landlord must then prove his good faith in a hearing at the Régie du logement. The landlord must respect the lease until its termination. Change of purpose: If the landlord wishes to transform or use the dwelling for purposes other than those for which it was rented, he must prove his good faith if the tenant contests. 26 Harassment The landlord cannot use harassment as a means of forcing you to leave the dwelling before the end of the lease. Harassment is a conduct expressed by repeated words, acts or gestures of a hurtful or scornful nature aimed at a person or group of people which substantially diminish a tenant’s quality of life, limit the tenant’s right of peaceful enjoyment of the dwelling he or she occupies and force the tenant’s departure. This conduct undermines the dignity, and the physical and psychological integrity of human beings. Perhaps you are experiencing this kind of situation and you and your family are tired of constant harassment by the landlord or by your neighbours. You decide to find another dwelling. Is this the best solution? One of the primary aims of harassment is to force the tenant to pay more rent or to find another apartment. When you leave your dwelling you are doing exactly what your harassers wish. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that you will not be a victim of discrimination in your next apartment. Fear of Immigration Department officials People who harass others often threaten to report their victims to the Immigration Department or to retaliate in other ways if the victim complains. Unless you are living illegally in the country, you have nothing to fear from the Immigration Department. Laying a complaint Contact the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPJ) if you believe that the harassment you suffer is linked to your ethnic origin, colour, sex or age. After you lay a complaint with the Commission, the Commission investigates the facts. If an informal settlement is not possible, it may take action (in your name, and at your expense) against the harassers before a human rights tribunal. You can contact the Commission in Montréal at 514 873-5146. If you believe that the harassment you suffer is not linked to your ethnic origine or personnal caracteristics, you can contact the Régie du logement. In Montréal, you can call 514 873-2245. 27 Repairs When repairs must be made to your dwelling during your lease, you must follow the following procedures: Notify the landlord verbally as to what repairs need to be made and ask when he or she intends to make them. If the landlord fails to make the repairs, you must then send the landlord a written notice (see the model written notice in Chapter 9) in which you give details of the work to be done and the deadline upon which you expect its completion (usually 10 days). Always keep a copy of the written notice and make sure to send it by registered mail. If the landlord fails to make the repairs by the deadline specified in the written notice, go to an office of the Régie du logement to lay a formal complaint. There is a cost to open a file. The Régie will examine your complaint, so bring your lease and a copy of your written notice. Then it will mail you and the landlord a letter indicating the date, time and location of your hearing. If you fail to show up at the prescribed date and hour, you may lose the case automatically, by default. Do not hesitate to ask your housing committee or tenant association for advice (see the list in Chapter 10). THE RENT The rent is paid in advance on the first day of each payment period unless the parties decide otherwise. The rent is paid in equal instalments, excepting the last instalment which may be smaller than the others. The landlord cannot demand an instalment greater than a month’s rent. The rent is paid by cheque or in cash. It is important for the landlord to give the tenant a receipt proving a payment in cash. It is preferable to use cheques which automatically provide proof of payment. The landlord cannot demand a postdated cheque as payment for rent. The landlord cannot ask for an advance payment of more than one rent period. If the period exceeds a month, he or she cannot demand the payment of more than a month’s rent. Moreover, the landlord cannot ask, either directly or indirectly, for any sum of money as a deposit. 28 THE RENT INCREASE The landlord can increase the rent only once (1) during the duration of the lease. The rent increase must be reasonnable. You have the right to refuse any increase that you feel may be unreasonnable. To know if the rent increase is reasonnable, you can call the Régie du logement or a tenant association for advice (see the list in chapter 10). Be aware that you may renew your lease but refuse the rent increase. You may contact the Régie du logement, in Montréal, at 514 873-2245. RENEWING OR ENDING YOUR LEASE Under Quebéc law, leases are automatically renewed when they reach their term as long as no change is made by either the tenant or the landlord. If you wish to move at the end of your lease, you must respect two conditions in giving the landlord notice: Give notice in writing Give notice at the time prescribed by law: – for a lease of 12 months or more, send a letter by registered mail 3 to 6 months before the end of the lease; – for a lease of less than 12 months, you must send the letter by registered mail 1 to 2 months before the end of the lease. In Chapter 9 you will find a standard form non–renewal letter. At the end of every lease, the landlord can propose certain changes to the lease (ie, a rent increase). To do this he or she must also respect two conditions in giving the tenant notice: Give notice in writing Give notice at the time prescribed by law: – for a lease of 12 months or more, a registered letter must be sent 3 to 6 months before the end of the lease; – for a lease of less than 12 months, a letter must be sent by registered mail 1 to 2 months before the end of the lease. In Chapter 9 you will find a standard form lease renewal letter and a refusal of rent increase. 29 When a tenant receives a notice of modification of the lease, he or she has one month from the date on which the notice was received to respond to the landlord (in writing, by registered mail). If the tenant fails to respond to the landlord’s notice, he or she is deemed to have accepted the changes suggested by the landlord and to have accepted the lease renewal. If the landlord fails to send you a notice of modification of the lease, it means he or she does not want to make any changes. If you wish to leave the dwelling, you must notify the landlord. For more information, call the Régie du logement in Montréal at 514 873-2245. C A N A D A M O R T G A G E A N D H O U S I N G C O R P O R A T I O N NO MORE HUMIDITY PROBLEMS! Is your home too humid? Occupant health and comfort at home are directly related to the indoor humidity level. If your home has a humidity problem, CMHC can give you some good tips on how to correct the situation before it gets worse, for example: ■ Remember to open or close doors and windows. ■ Install exhaust fans in bathrooms or kitchens. ■ Seal entry points using weatherstripping and caulking to improve indoor humidity conditions in the winter and reduce your heating costs. For more tips or answers to your questions, get a free copy of the About Your House series fact sheet entitled Measuring Humidity in Your Home, in English or French, by calling 1-800-668-2642 or by visiting www.cmhc.ca For more than 60 years, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been Canada's national housing agency and a source of objective, reliable housing expertise. 30 6. YOUR APARTMENT THE INTEGRITY OF THE PREMISES The tenant has certain responsabilities, like maintaining the dwelling’s integrity. You have no right to change the physical lay out of the apartment. You may not, in other words, add or knock down walls without the landlord’s consent. You have no right to change your locks without the landlord’s consent. If you do so, you must secure the landlord’s permission and give him or her a copy of the new keys. If you change the colour of the walls or other parts of the apartment, you must return it to the landlord in its original state before leaving. Unless you made a previous agreement, the landlord can bill you for repairs. MAINTAINING YOUR APARTMENT Household garbage In Montréal, household garbage is collected twice a week, neighbourhoods except on holidays. Ask your municipality for information about collection days. Ask the landlord or caretaker where you should store your garbage until collection day. If you want to throw out a large item, like a mattress, stove or refrigerator, you must notify the city’s public services. For information, call 514 872–3434 (City of Montréal). The refrigerator and stove The refrigerator and stove should be regularly cleaned. To defrost the refrigerator, turn off the temperature control and leave the door open. Never remove ice with a knife or other sharp object. This could be dangerous and might damage the appliance. Regularly clean the filters of the fan above the stove. 31 The bathroom Only put non–greasy liquids in the bathtub and sink, and toilet paper in the toilet. When you take a shower, put the shower curtain inside the bathtub. Clean the bathroom well. It is important for your personal hygiene. Laundry Do not overload the washers and dryers. Follow the rules posted in your building’s laundry room. Hang your laundry in the bathroom. Never hang wet laundry over a wood floor. Hallways Whatever the season, avoid leaving your shoes and boots in the hallway as it interferes with cleaning, and blocks the passage way. Ventilation In winter, close your windows tightly after airing your apartment. Even in winter it is important to air out your dwelling to avoid excessive humidity. When you cook, turn on the fan above the stove. Air out the bathroom after taking a shower. To avoid damage to your apartment, leave sufficient space between your furniture and walls. Too much condensation can ruin the walls in your apartment. 32 PUBLIC SECURITY 911 AND PREVENTION Emergency services For emergencies in the Montréal area requiring the services of police, firefighters, ambulances, hydro–electric and natural gas companies or public works officials, there is one 24–hour number to call: 911. Prevention The Service de police de la Communauté urbaine de Montréal (SPCUM) is a public service founded upon principles of community spirit which protects citizens by preventing crime, tracking down suspects and bringing them before the justice system. If you live in Montréal and you are concerned about the safety of your residence, call Tandem Montréal (Programme de sécurité urbaine de la Ville de Montréal) at 514 522-2886. This non–profit organization will suggest ways to feel more secure in your home and neighbourhood. Check that your smoke detectors are working and replace batteries if necessary. Check that the portable fire extinguishers work and refill them if necessary. Hold a meeting for family members and other occupants of the dwelling and draw up an evacuation plan in case of fire. Find out where the emergency exits are in your apartment and in the building. Keep these exits accessible at all times. If you live in Montréal and want information on fire prevention, phone 514 872–3800. In case of emergency, phone 911. For the other problems call: 514 280-2222 OVERCROWDING According to the City of Montréal’s Housing Code, you need 8,5 square metres of living surface per person inhabiting a dwelling to avoid overcrowding. 33 UNHEALTHY LIVING CONDITIONS If you have cockroaches or other vermin (rats, etc.), you should notify the landlord so he can have them exterminated. If necessary, notify the landlord by registered mail. Keep a copy of the letter and the post office receipt. If the landlord refuses to cooperate, phone the inspection and permits department in your city. If you live in Montréal, you can phone 514 872–1111 or contact your tenant association (see the list in Chapter 10). REPAIRS You are responsible for damage caused by your negligence (ie, you break a window). Repairs arising from normal usage must be done by the landlord (ie, your water heater leaks, etc.). The tenant must allow the apartment to be checked. He or she must also let the landlord enter the apartment to do the repairs. On the other hand, the landlord must give you 24–hour notice. The landlord must keep the dwelling in a condition fit for habitation. If repairs must be made inside your apartment, notify the landlord by registered mail if necessary. Remember to keep a copy of the letter and post office receipt. You will find a model written notice in Chapter 9. If the landlord refuses to make repairs, contact the Régie du logement or your tenant association (see the list in Chapter 10). EMERGENCIES If the repairs are urgent (ie, a flood or lack of heat) and you cannot get in touch with the landlord, you may proceed with the repairs yourself and then deduct their cost from your rent. But be careful: You cannot refuse to pay your rent while waiting for the repairs to be done. 34 HELPFUL ADVICE If you are having trouble convincing the landlord to respect your rights, contact your local tenant association (see the list in Chapter 10). It is always best to communicate with the landlord in writing, by registered mail. Always keep a copy of letters. 35 7. MOVING As was mentioned above, the date upon which leases usually end in Quebéc is June 30. All, or almost all, residential moves take place on July 1, which is a holiday (Canada Day). If you want to avoid inconveniences and problems, plan your move ahead of time. CHOOSING A MOVER Find out about the cost of moving services (do not think twice about comparing prices!). Make sure that the mover you choose is insured to cover any damage to your property, and reserve the moving company’s services as soon as possible (one to two months before the moving date) CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS Two to three weeks before the move, you should change addresses. You may notify the Canadian Postal Services of your address change by going to any post office in your city. Bring a piece of identification as the postal clerk will ask for one. Your mail will be redirected to your new residence on the date of your move, and for the following 6 months. You will be billed for this service. You should also notify the following institutions of your address change by writing a letter or calling: - Financial institution and credit card company - Public services such as telephone, gas, electricity, cable television - Federal and provincial ministers of revenue - La Société de l’assurance–automobile - La Régie de l’assurance maladie - The company that ensures your apartment and car - Newspapers or magazines to which you subscribe - Clubs and associations to which you belong - Your physician, dentist, optometrist and other professionals - The Régie du logement if you are involved in proceedings 36 DON’T FORGET HYDRO–QUÉBEC You must notify Hydro-Québec at least 7 days before the date of your move. You can do so: by telephone, by calling Customer Service at 514 385-7252 by mail, by filling out the detachable slip on the return envelope that comes with your bill and sending it to us along with your payment by Internet, at www.hydroquebéc.com/moving By advising us in advance, you will no longer be responsible for paying the electricity consumed at your old address once you have moved. Read the meter yourself when you move! Be sure to read the exact consumption on the day you move in/out, noting the exact position of the hands on all four dials on the meter. Send Hydro-Québec the readings you took at both your old and your new address. Fee for change of address and for opening a file If you already have an account with Hydro-Québec, the administrative fee for a change of address will be $20. If you are opening an account with HydroQuébec for the first time, the fee for opening a file will be $50. NATURAL GAS Gaz Métro is a leading Québec energy company and one of Canada’s largest natural gas distributors. In Québec, Gaz Métro distributes natural gas to about 171,000 customers. If you have any questions about Gaz Métro, please do not hesitate to contact us. By telephone, by calling Customer Service at 514 598-3222 (Montréal) / 1 800-875-6202 (elsewhere in Québec) Via the Internet, at www.gazmetro.com Natural Gas The underground distribution system directly supplies natural gas to homes, businesses and industries. Many buildings use natural gas for heating housing units and water and some apartments have ranges that work on natural gas. A meter inside the building calculates the natural gas consumed and establishes the bills. If you are a tenant, find out if the service is paid for by the owner. If you are responsible for the bill, contact Gaz Métro Customer Service at 514598-3222 (Montréal)/1 800 875-6202 (elsewhere in Québec) to register the 37 bill in your name. An employee will read your meter about once every two months. Safety Rules Natural gas is very safe. However, just as with any other kind of energy, like electricity, gas or propane, there are safety rules and rules of conduct that have to be respected. A natural gas leak can be detected when there is a smell of rotten eggs. This odour is detectable in a concentration as low as 1%. If you detect a suspicious odour in your vicinity, it may be due to a natural gas leak. In that case, simply follow these instructions: 1. Do not smoke. 2. Do not turn on or off any appliance or switch that might produce a spark (doorbell, light switch, cell phone or any other electrical appliance). 3. If you are indoors, ventilate the room by opening doors and windows. 4. Leave the house. 5. Call 9-1-1 if this service is available in your region. If not, call 1 800-3618003. This service is in operation 24 hours a day. Payment Options In order to meet your needs, Gaz Métro offers various payment options, including an equal payments plan and a pre-authorized automatic payment plan. You can also pay your bill via the Internet on the Website of your financial institution. Or you can receive and pay your bill on the Canada Post Website. Your balance will be considered paid when Gaz Métro receives your payment at its offices. Please allow sufficient time for the transaction, depending on your method of payment. If you are experiencing financial difficulties and cannot pay your natural gas bill on time, Gaz Métro can offer you the option of making instalment payments. As soon as you receive a late payment notice, get in touch immediately with Gaz Métro Customer Service at 514 598-3222 (Montréal)/1 800 875-6202 (elsewhere in Quebéc) to reach an agreement on a payment arrangement. 38 Energy Efficiency Reducing the energy consumed to heat your home may be simpler than you think. The best way is to use high performance, energy-efficient appliances. However, if you are not planning to make renovations or replace your heating appliances, there are some simple things you can do as a first step that can help save energy. As a Gaz Métro customer, you can take advantage of the programs1 offered by the Energy Efficiency Fund (EEF). The EEF recommends several solutions for reducing energy consumption. Among those solutions, the EEF offers: Éconologis program - a free evaluation of your home’s energy efficiency The EEF, in partnership with the Québec Agence de l’efficacité énergétique, offers low-income households which pay their own natural gas bill personalized advice and the installation of products that help save energy. Free heat reflector panels The EEF also offers free heat-reflector panels for buildings heated with hot water. They help reduce heating costs and improve comfort while reducing heat losses. High energy efficiency windows The EEF grants financial assistance for the purchase of ENERGY STAR® qualified windows patio doors. With this assistance, you can buy superior quality products for the same price as standard products. Assistance toward improving a home’s building envelope, including wall and roof insulation and much more (Rénoclimat) The EEF, in partnership with the Québec Agence de l’efficacité énergétique, pays part of the cost of an evaluation to determine the energy improvements that can be made. Following the evaluation, the EEF offers financial assistance for the improvements made that help reduce natural gas consumption. To learn more about these programs, contact the Energy Efficiency Fund: By telephone, by calling 514 529-2216 / 1 866-529-2216 Via the Internet, at www.fee.qc.ca 1. The EEF programs are reserved for Gaz Métro customers whose homes are principally heated by natural gas. The EEF programs are subject to change without notice. Special conditions apply to each program. 39 8. OTHER SERVICES ELECTRICITY In Québec, electricity is an essential service. Electricity is produced and distributed by Hydro-Québec. The utility offers customers a wide range of information and services, while ensuring the confidentiality of your file. Outages and emergencies, 24 hours a day: 1 800 790-2424 To report a power outage or an emergency involving the power system. Moving Notify us at least seven days before your move: Online at www.hydroquebec.com/moving By phone at 514 385-7252 Important: On the moving day, read the meter just before you vacate your old premises, and again upon arriving at your new residence. You can submit your change of address notice as well as your meter readings online or by phone. In the Montréal area, call 514 385-8503. File administration charges: If you already have an account in your name, you will be charged $20. If you are opening your first account, you will be charged $50. 1 800 ENERGIE (514 343-7443) A special energy efficiency information service. Equalized Payments Plan (EPP) Free service offered by Hydro-Québec that allows you to pay the same amount for your electricity every month. The amount is reviewed and adjusted twice a year to reflect your actual consumption. Paying your bill You choose how to pay: Online at Hydroquebec.com By automatic debit Through your financial institution, at the service counter or by automatic teller By mail, by sending a cheque in the reply envelope provided Payment arrangements If you’re having financial difficulties and can’t pay your electricity bill, HydroQuébec will allow you to pay by installments. Call 1 877 377-7890 and avoid problems. 40 WHY ENERGY EFFICIENCY? Today’s context of consumer optimism and strong industrial and business growth is driving up demand for electricity in Québec. In meeting this increased demand, Hydro-Québec is exposed to rising up supply costs, which raises electricity rates. Daily efforts to conserve energy have been shown to slow the growth in demand. That’s why we at Hydro-Québec have long been encouraging customers to watch their electricity consumption. And it’s a top priority, because we can see measurable results. In fact, if people were using the same technologies and had kept the same habits today as in 1990, we would need an extra 23.5 terawatthours to meet the energy needs of Québec. That’s equivalent to the electricity used by 1,125,000 households! Being energy wise means practising energy efficiency. How? By modifying your behaviour and making small changes that will benefit all of society for generations to come. By using energy-efficient appliances and adopting energysaving habits. Electronic Thermostats: for comfort and saving If you heat your home entirely or partly using electric baseboards, you could enjoy greater comfort and substantial energy savings by replacing your conventional thermostats with electronic ones. You can buy programmable and non-programmable electronic thermostats from: Retailers (hardware stores, renovation centres) Master electricians If you need help choosing a model, consult your local retailer or a master electrician. Some suppliers have Web sites that offer product information. Installation – Under the provisions of the Québec Building Act, thermostats must be installed by a certified member of the Corporation des Maîtres Électriciens du Québec (CMEQ). You can fin useful information about this on the CMEQ Web site : www.cmeq.org/accueil/Rep_Membre_Affichage.asp ENERGY STAR Household Appliances Today’s household appliances are much less power-hungry than those built 20, 15 or even 5 years ago. So purchasing a new one is a perfect opportunity to cut down on your energy consumption. How can you tell which models are the most efficient? Look for the ENERGY STAR symbol when you buy. If you replace all your appliances with new ENERGY STAR qualified models, you’ll save energy and money for as long as they last. And if you make a few 41 simple changes like washing your laundry in cold water, you’ll save even more. Now imagine if each one of Québec’s 3,000,000 households did the same. It’s easy to see how choosing ENERGY STAR and changing certain habits can make a big difference! Shedding some light on compact fluorescents Did you know that lighting accounts for 5-10% of a household’s total energy consumption? Hydro-Québec encourages you to replace you incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Here are four good reasons to choose CFLs: Longer life They last up to ten times longer than incandescent bulbs. Less energy CFLs are better than incandescent bulbs for the environment, consuming up to 75% less energy to produce the same amount of light. Same amount of light Their light output is equivalent to that of standard incandescent bulbs. Variety of models and designs They are suitable for most indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures. To learn more about using energy efficiently, visit www.hydroquebec.com/residential/index.html Or call 514 363-7443 Montréal area 1 800 363-7443 Elsewhere in Québec I extend to you my warmest welcome to the county PIERRE ARCAND DEPUTY OF MONT-ROYAL 42 HOUSING INSURANCE If you are renting an apartment, the landlord leaves it to you to insure your property. Insurance companies offer an assortment of insurance policies to provide you with the protection you desire: The basic policy, which only protects you from theft; Another policy, which protects you from what agents call “the 13 basic risks” (eg. fire, theft, vandalism, freezing of your heating system, smoke, etc.); A third policy which protects you from all types of accidental damage such as your sewage system backing up, accidents in the home, etc. Before signing an insurance contract, estimate the value of ALL your property (furniture, books, records, electrical appliances, clothes, knick–knacks) and estimate the amount of money you would need to replace it. Do not under–estimate the value of your property! Insurance will be calculated on the basis of your estimate. If you are the victim of fire or theft, your insurance company will reimburse you the value of your destroyed or stolen property up to the total value of the property you previously declared. Remember to keep bills and photographs of your property in a safe place. Insurance companies also offer a “new–purchase” deals. This means that they will pay you a sum equal to the current new value of your property, and not to the depreciated value (taking into account usage rates). Deputy of LaFontaine Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister Parliament House 1045, rue des Parlementaires Bureau RC. 35 Québec (Québec) G1A 1A4 Telephone : 418-644-0871 Fax: 418-641-2668 District address 11977, Avenue Alexis-Carrel Montréal (Québec) H1E 5K7 Telephone : 514 648-1007 Fax : 514 648-4559 Email : [email protected]. Before signing an insurance policy, ask an agent to explain carefully the different types of contracts. Do not hesitate to ask questions. Read the insurance policy thoroughly. It will help you avoid problems should a disaster occur. Civil liability is included in your housing insurance and covers all accidents involving third parties in your apartment. It also covers damages you might cause to someone else’s property (ie, you damage the building in which your apartment is located). 43 TELEPHONE, WIRELESS, DIGITAL TV, AND INTERNET Welcome to Vidéotron! We invite you to take advantage of one of the most advanced integrated communications lineups anywhere. Thanks to our reliable state-ofthe-art fiber optic network, we bring you the best in home entertainment and communications. We’d be happy to serve you, and we promise to give our all to provide you with the best products, technology, and customer service experience possible. Meet all your telecom needs Our array of services enables us to cover all your needs, from Internet access to TV (Classic Cable, Illico Digital TV, and Video on Demand) and digital phone (Cable Telephony, Wireless, and Softphone). Vidéotron simplifies your life Only Vidéotron can do all this: One bill Each month for all your services. One customer service department Just one number to reach us for all your questions or for whatever reason. One technician connects every services And when that technician leaves your house, everything works perfectly. Call our customer service department today. We’ll answer all your questions and create a custom package to match your needs, preferences, and budget. Don’t wait. Call 514-281-1711 or 1 88-VIDEOTRON. Raymond Bachand Deputy of Outremont Minister of Economic Development, Innovation, and Export Trade Minister of Tourism Minister responsible for the Montréal region 5450 ch. de la Côte-des-Neiges Suite 115 Montréal (Québec) H3T 1Y6 Tel. (514) 482-0199 44 9. MODEL LETTERS MODEL LEASE NON–RENEWAL LETTER Use this model to notify the landlord of your intention to leave the dwelling at the end (expiry) of the lease. The letter must be sent to the landlord by registered mail (ask for proof of mailing). If your lease is for 12 months, sent the letter between three and six months before the end of the lease. Date: (landlord’s name and address) ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ Dear Sir, Madam, I would like to inform you that I will not be renewing my lease. I shall leave my apartment when the lease ends on the (date)________________. ________________________________ (your signature) ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ (your name and address) 45 MODEL LETTER FOR RENEWING YOUR LEASE AND REFUSING A RENT INCREASE This letter notifies the landlord that you wish to remain in the dwelling but that you refuse the rent increase requested by the landlord. It must be sent to the landlord by registered mail (ask for proof of mailing). You have a delay of one month to respond to the landlord. Date : (landlord’s name and address) _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ Dear Sir, Madam, I would like to inform you that I am renewing my lease but I refuse the rent increase and changes you have requested. ________________________________ (your signature) ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ (your name and address) 46 MODEL LEGAL NOTICE You can send this letter if a serious problem arises which is not rectified by the landlord. If the landlord persists in doing nothing to help you, you may file a complaint with the Régie du logement. This letter should be sent to the landlord by registered mail (ask for proof of mailing). Date: (landlord’s name and address) _____________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________ Dear Sir, Madam, I am experiencing the following problems in my apartment and\or building: ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ I am giving you notice to rectify these problems in the 10 days following the posting of this letter. If you fail to do so, I shall institute legal proceedings including a request to deposit my rent with the Régie du logement. ________________________________ (your signature) ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ (your name and address) 47 NOTICE TO ASSIGN THE LEASE Notice to ________________________________________________________________________ Name of landlord ________________________________________________________________________ Name of landlord Address of leased premises: ________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ You are hereby notified that I intend to assign the lease to: _______________________________ ________________________________ Name and address of the proposed assignee Name and address of the proposed assignee __________________________________ __________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ (Telephone number) (Telephone number) The assignment of the lease will take effect on (tick off the applicable square) the landlord accepts the assignment if the date is later, as of __________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Name of the lessee Signature (Date) (Telephone number) ________________________________________________________________________ Name of the lessee Signature (Date) (Telephone number) ________________________________________________________________________ (To be used if given by hand (person to person) I, the undersigned, acknowledge receipt of the above notice to assign the lease, On _____________________ _____________________ Signature of the landlord ______________________ Signature of the landlord Notice given pursuant to article 1870 of the Civil code of Québec RDL-802A-E (98-06) Significant information Practical advice The landlord may not refuse to consent to the assignment of the lease without a serious reason. If the landlord refuses, he must inform the tenant of his reasons for refusing, within 15 days after receiving the notice. Otherwise, he is deemed to have consented to the assignment. The assignee becomes tenant and the former tenant is acquitted of his obligations. To quickly inform the proposed assignee, the landlord should send him a copy of the answer to the tenant. To be sure of the nature of the agreement, the tenant and the proposed assignee should sign an assignment of lease agreement. To carry out a contract of transfer we recommend that you consult the housing committee of your borough (see chapter 10) or directly the Régie du logement at 514 8732245. 48 10. FOR MORE INFORMATION TENANT ASSOCIATIONS (OR HOUSING COMMITTEES) What happens when the apartment you rent has hidden defects? Living conditions are unhealthy or it is infested with vermin (cockroaches, mice) and the landlord refuses to rectify the situation? You have problems dealing with the landlord or with other tenants in the building and this conflict lowers your quality of life and threatens your personal security? Tenant associations (or housing committees) exist in each district of Montréal. These organizations are in charge of defending tenants’ rights (landlord\tenant relations) and can offer you active support in your dealings with the landlord (rent increases, major repairs, etc.) Do not hesitate to contact the tenant association nearest to you. For telephone numbers of local tenant associations or housing committees, phone the Regroupement des comités logement et des associations de locataires du Québec (RCLALQ) in Montréal at 514 521-7114. Ahuntsic- Cartierville - Comité logement Ahuntsic – Cartierville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 331-1773 Anjou, Rivière des Praires, Pointe-aux-Trembles, Montréal Est - Infologis de l’est de l’Ile de Montréal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 354-7373 Côte-des-Neiges – Notre Dame de Grâce - Organisation d’éducation et d’information logement . . . . . .514 738-0101 Côte-des-Neiges - Comité logement du conseil communautaire . . . . . . . . . . .514 484-1471 Notre-Dame-de-Grâce - Projet Genèse Côte-des-Neiges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 738-2036 Lachine – Lasalle – Verdun - Comité logement Lachine-Lasalle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 639-8070 - Comité d’action des citoyennes et citoyens de Verdun . . . .514 769-2228 Le Plateau Mont-Royal – Centre-Sud - Comité logement du Plateau Mont-Royal . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 527-3495 - Comité logement Centre-Sud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 521-5992 Le Sud-Ouest - POPIR Comité logement Saint-Henri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 935-4649 - RIL de Pointe St-Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 932-7742 49 Mercier – Hochelaga – Maisonneuve - Comité Bails Hochelaga – Maisonneuve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 522-1817 - Entraide logement Hochelaga – Maisonneuve . . . . . . . . . . .514 528-1634 Montréal Nord - St-Léonard - Comité Logement Montréal Nord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 852-9253 - Action Dignité St-Léonard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 251-2874 Rosemont – Petite- Patrie - Comité logement Rosemont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 597-2581 - Comité logement de la Petite-Patrie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 272-9006 Villeray – Saint- Michel – Parc Extension - Association des locataires de Villeray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 270-6703 - Carrefour populaire de Saint-Michel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 722-1211 - Comité d’action de Parc-Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 278-6028 Autres villes de la région métropolitaine - Longueuil: Comité logement Montérégie . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 670-5080 - Laval: ACEF de l’Ile Jésus Volet logement . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 662-0255 For telephone information concerning the entire Montreal area call: Info secours logement at 514 488-0412 and 514 990-0190 A FEW OWNER ASSOCIATIONS - Association des propriétaires du Québec (APQ) 50, boul. Crémazie Ouest, Montréal (Québec) H2P 2T2 . . . . . . . . . . 514 382-9670 - Corporation des propriétaires immobiliers du Québec inc. (CORPIQ) 960, boulevard Sainte-Croix Ville Saint-Laurent (Québec) H4L 3Y8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 748-1921 NON–GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS) Organizations funded by the Ministère des Relations avec les citoyens et de l’Immigration du Québec (MRCI) exist to welcome newcomers and help them settle in. These organizations offer multilingual information,orientation, reference, accompaniment and interpreting services in areas like housing, employment, twinning, translation, French courses and the like. They can also help you with official procedures like applying for immigration and welfare. Do not hesitate to call these organizations. They are in a position to help you, often in your native tongue. Contact : Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL) 6555, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bureau 400 Montréal (Québec) H3S 2A6 Telephone: 514 341-1057 Fax: 514 341-8404 50 Ahuntsic-Cartierville Carrefour d’aide aux nouveaux arrivants (CANA) 10780, rue Laverdure Montréal (Qc) H3L 2L9 Telephone: 514 382-0735 Centre d’appui aux communautés immigrantes de BordeauxCartierville (CACI) 4770, De Salaberry, bureau 201 Montréal (Qc) H4J 1H8 Telephone: 514 856-3511 Côte-des-Neiges— Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Projet Genèse 4735, Côte Sainte-Catherine Montréal (Qc) H3W 2R8 Telephone: 514 738-2036 PROMIS (Promotion – Intégration-Société nouvelle) 3333, Côte Sainte-Catherine Montréal (Qc) H3T 1C8 Telephone: 514 345-1615 / 514 345-1616 Services canadiens d’assistance aux immigrants juifs (JIAS) 5400, Westbury 2e Montréal (Qc) H3W 2M8 Telephone: 514 342-9351 Service d’interprète et d’aide aux réfugiés indochinois (SIARI) 6767, Côte des Neiges Montréal (Qc) H3C 2T6 Telephone: 514 738-4763 Le Plateau-Mont-Royal – Centre-Sud Centre communautaire des femmes sud-asiatiques 1035, Rachel Est, 3e étage Montréal (Qc) H2J 2J5 Telephone: 514 528-8812 Centre d’action sociocommunautaire de Montréal 32, boul. Saint-Joseph Ouest Montréal (Qc) H2W 1W3 Telephone: 514 842-8045 L’Hirondelle, Services d’accueil et d’intégration des immigrants 4652, rue Jeanne-Mance, 2e étage Montréal (Qc) H2V 4J4 Telephone:514 281-2038 Le Sud-Ouest Centre social d’aide aux immigrants (CSAI) 6201, rue Laurendeau Montréal (Qc) H4E 3X8 Telephone: 514 932-2953 Comité d’éducation aux adultes de la Petite-Bourgogne et de St-Henri (CEDA) 2515, rue Delisle Montréal (Qc) H3J 1K8 Telephone: 514 596-4422 Mercier—Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Accueil liaison pour arrivants (ALPA) 1490, av. de La Salle Montréal (Qc) H1V 2J5 Telephone: 514 255-3900 LaSalle Centre de promotion, référence, information et services multiethniques (PRISME) 414, rue Lafleur, #110 Montréal (Qc) H3R 3H6 Telephone: 514 364-0939 Montréal-Nord Centre d’action bénévole Service d’accompagnement aux nouveaux arrivants 4640, rue Forest Montréal (Qc) H1H 2B3 Telephone: 514 328-0494 51 Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie Bureau de la communauté haïtienne de Montréal (BCHM) 6970, rue Marquette Montréal (Qc) H2E 2C7 Telephone: 514 725-9508 Service d’aide et de liaison La Maisonnée 6865, av. Christophe-Colomb Montréal (Qc) H2S 2H3 Telephone: 514 271-3533 Saint-Laurent Centre d’accueil et référence pour immigrants de Saint-Laurent (CARI) 1179, boul. Décarie St-Laurent (Qc) H4L 3M8 Telephone: 514 748-2007 Saint-Léonard Accueil aux immigrants de l’Est de Montréal 5960, Jean-Talon Est, app. 110 Montréal (Qc) H1S 1M2 Telephone: 514 723-4939 Ville-Marie (Centre-ville) Centre des femmes de Montréal 3585, rue St-Urbain Montréal (Qc) H2X 2N6 Telephone: 514 842-0814 Centre d’orientation paralégale et sociale pour immigrants (COPSI) 82, boul. Saint-Joseph Ouest Montréal (Qc) H2T 2B5 Telephone: 514 729-7098 Service à la famille chinoise du Grand Montréal 987, Côté, 4e étage Montréal (Qc) H2Z 1L1 Telephone: 514 861-5244 52 Union française 429, rue Viger Est Montréal (Qc) H2L 2N9 Telephone: 514 845-5195 / 514 861-7841 Villeray—Saint-Michel— Parc-Extension Carrefour latino-américain (CLAM) 7290, rue Hutchison, 2e étage Montréal (Qc) H3N 1Z1 Telephone: 514 271-8207 Maison d’Haïti Inc. 8833, boul. St-Michel, 12e étage Montréal (Qc) H1Z 3G3 Telephone: 514 326-3022 Rive-Nord Carrefour d’intercultures de Laval 3200, boul. du Souvenir Ouest, bur. D-108 Laval (Qc) H7V 1W9 Telephone: 450 686-0554 Rive-Sud Maison internationale de la Rive-Sud (MIRS) 2152, boul. Lapinière, bur. 220 Brossard (Qc) J4W 1L9 Telephone: 450 445-8777 Carrefour La Moutier 100, Place Charles-Lemoyne, bur.121-A Longueuil (Qc) J4K 2T4 Telephone: 450 679-7111 Laurentides Le COFFRET 181 Rue Brière St-Jérôme (Qc) J7Y 3A7 Telephone: 1 450 565-2998 PUBLIC AND GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS CITY OF MONTREAL WWW.HABITERMONTREAL.QC.CA TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE CITY OF 7 DAYS A WEEK, CALL 311 MONTRÉAL THE CITY OF MONTREAL IS DIVIDED INTO 19 DISTRICTS Ahuntsic-Cartierville Anjou Côte-des-Neiges—Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Lachine LaSalle Le Plateau-Mont-Royal Le Sud-Ouest L’Île-Bizard—Sainte-Geneviève Mercier—Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Montréal-Nord Outremont Pierrefonds-Roxboro Rivière-des-Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie Saint-Laurent Saint-Léonard Verdun Ville-Marie Villeray—Saint-Michel—Parc-Extension OR ANY DISTRICT THE ISLAND OF MONTREAL IS DIVIDED INTO 15 BOROUGHS Baie d’Urfé . . . . . . . . . . 514 457-5324 Beaconsfield . . . . . . . . . 514 428-4400 Côte-Saint-Luc . . . . . . . .514 485-6800 Dollard-des-Ormeaux . . .514 684-1010 Dorval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 633-4040 Hampstead . . . . . . . . . . .514 369-8200 Kirkland . . . . . . . . . . . . .514 694-4100 Ile-Dorval . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 636-1571 Montréal-Est . . . . . . . . . .514 645-7431 Montréal-Ouest . . . . . . .514 481-8125 Mont-Royal . . . . . . . . . . .514 734-2900 Pointe-Claire . . . . . . . . . 514 630-1200 Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue . .514 457-5500 Senneville . . . . . . . . . . .514 457-6020 Westmount . . . . . . . . . .514 989-5200 Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse 360, rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal (Qc) H2Y 1P5 . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 873-5146 Services Québec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 644-4545 Ministère de l’Immigration et des communautés culturelles. . 514 864-9191 Office municipal d’habitation de Montréal (OMHM) 415, rue Saint-Antoine Ouest, 2e étage Montréal (Qc) H2Z 1H8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 872-6442 Régie du logement 5199, rue Sherbrooke Est, bur. 2095 Montréal (Qc) H1T 3X1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 873-2245 Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL) 1100, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest, 1er étage Montréal (Qc) H3B SJ7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 283-2222 Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM) 425, rue Sherbrooke Est, bureau 01 Montréal (Qc) H2L 1J9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514 380-7436 Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ) 500, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest, 5e étage Montréal (Qc) H2Z 1W7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 800 463-4315 53 TEMPORARY FOR SHELTERS IN THE MONTREAL AREA NEWCOMERS Name: Maison de chambres Poincaré Address: 11989-11999, rue Poincaré Telephone: 514 341-1057, # 204 or 514 947-8834 Clientele: Men Cost: From $290 per month Response time: Immediate Name: Maison Prud’homme Address: 3429, rue Prud’homme Telephone: 514 341-1057, # 204 or 514 947-8834 Clientele: Women Cost: From $300 per month Response time: Immediate Name: Address: Telephone: Cost: Clientele: Mission communautaire de Montréal / Montreal City Mission 1435, rue City Councilors 514 844-9128 Fax: 514 844-0067 Free Refugee claimant without revenue or government aid Name: Address: Telephone: Cost: Clientele: PRAIDA (Previous name SARIMM) 5700, ch. de la Côte-des-Neiges, 3e étage 514 731-8531 Fax: 514 731-2552 Free Refugee claimant without revenue or government aid FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Name: Service d’hébergement Saint-Denis Telephone: 514 374-6673 Cost: $7 per day Clientele: From 15 to 20 years old Response time: 2 to 3 days FOR 54 WOMEN Name: Address: Telephone: Clientele: Résidence Maria-Goretti 3333, ch. de la Côte Sainte-Catherine 514 731-1161 Fax: 514 342-8337 Women 18 to 40 years old Name: Address: Telephone : Clientele: YWCA-Résidence 1355, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest 514 866-9941 Fax: 514 861-1603 Women Name: Address: Telephone: Clientele: Secours aux femmes C.P. 22150, CSP St-Marc, Mtl Qc H1Y 3K8 514 593-6353 Fax: 514 593-7241 Immigrant women with or without children MAP OF THE METRO NETWORK 55 This document was prepared by: Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL) 6555, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bur. 400 Montréal (Quebéc) H3S 2A6 Telephone: 514 341-1057 Fax: 514 341-8404 Web site: www.romel-montreal.ca Coordination (2004-2008 edition) Mazen Houdeib Corrections, updating and translation (2008 edition) Dona Daher, Rana Jaroudi, Pierrette Daignault Graphics and printing (2008 edition) inc. 5500 Fullum Street, suite 212, Montréal (Quebéc) H2G 2H3 Tel.: 514 279-8256 © 2008 Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL) Printed in the 1st quarter of 2008 ISBN: 978-2-922703-07-8 All rights reserved / 5th edition - Bibliothèque nationale du Québec, 2008. This guide book is also available in French and Spanish. 56 We would like to acknowledge the generous contribution of the members of the production team. Their expertise, advice and sustained participation enabled the project to be realized. Special thanks to: M. Mohammed-Labri Bennis, Political Attaché - MICC Mme Michèle Hudon, Communications Advisor- MICC M. Robert Madore, President and CEO- SHQ M. André Filion, Vice-President, Public Affairs and Administration - SHQ Mme Patricia Lord, Communications Consultant- SHQ M. Bernard Blanchet, Borough Counselor (Lachine) - Ville de Montréal M. Jean-Jacques Bohémier, Political Attaché - Ville de Montréal M. Denis Quirion, Manager / Community Housing Projects- Ville de Montréal M. Martial Fillion, General Manager - SHDM M. Frédéric Deslongchamps, Director of Real Estate Development- SHDM M. Fabien Cournoyer, General Manager - OMHM Mme Louise Hébert, Communications Director - OMHM M. Pierre Bourbonnière, Marketing Director - STM Mme Marie Murphy, Senior Advisor- SCHL Mme Sarah Dandenault, Senior Advisor - SCHL M. Marcelin Hudon, Coordinator - AGRTQ M. Ouali Fodil, Advisor - Hydro-Québec M. Marc Audet, Vice-President, Immigrant Investors Program Fiducie Desjardins M. Ronald O’Narey, Advisor - Fonds en efficacité énergétique M. François Lefebvre, Advisor- Gaz Métropolitain Mme Claudie Brassard, Senior Manager, Communication Marketing Vidéotron Mme Andrée Losier, Brand Manager - Vidéotron 57 Le Regroupement des organismes du Montréal ethnique pour le logement (ROMEL) is a non profit organization specializing in housing and immigration. Created in 1984, ROMEL groups together 44 ethno-cultural organizations in Montréal that help new immigrants find accessible and affordable housing. In collaboration with its organization members, ROMEL tries to improve housing conditions for cultural communities. Along with its organization members, ROMEL eases the integration of new Montrealers by: - a computorized directory indicating apartment vacancies. Over 100 private owners register their apartments every month; - temporary housing. Over 40 rooms are available in the Bordeaux-Cartierville and Notre-Dame-de-Grâce districts, at an affordable cost; - information sessions on housing offered to new immigrants and NGO workers; - information, orientation and reference; - developement and management of affordable housing projects; - access to private property; - developement of child care centers; - developement of community real estate projects. Do not hesitate to call or visit our offices. ROMEL’s multilingual staff will be pleased to serve you in 10 languages. ROMEL 6555, chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, bureau 400 Montréal (Québec) H3S 2A6 Tel.: 514 341-1057 Fax: 514 341-8404 Web site: www.romel-montreal.ca Annexes : La Maison POINCARÉ 11989-11999, rue Poincaré, Montréal (Québec) H3L 3L6 Tel.: 514 341-1057 # 204 ou 514 947-8834 Fax: 514 341-8404 La Maison PRUD’HOMME 3429, rue Prud’homme, Montréal (Québec) H4A 3H6 Tel.: 514 341-1057 # 204 ou 514 947-8834 Fax: 514 341-8404 58 Notes : 59 Notes : 60 Notes : 61 Notes : 62 Notes : 63 Notes : 64