For landlords, registering a judgment with a credit bureau is a way to encourage compliance with decisions issued by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). When a tenant owes money—whether for unpaid rent, damages, or other reasons—and a judgment has been obtained, it is possible, under certain conditions, to have this information recorded on their credit file.

 

Why register a judgment

A TAL judgment confirms a legally recognized debt. Registering a judgment obtained against a tenant with a credit bureau adds a tangible consequence for the tenant. This record may be visible during credit checks conducted by other landlords or financial institutions for a period of six years from the date the judgment is signed. Above all, it is a mechanism intended to encourage repayment of amounts owed and promote tenant accountability.

 

Conditions to be met

Certain conditions must be fulfilled:

  • The judgment must have been issued within the last six years;
  • The amount claimed must exceed $100;
  • No other collection process must be underway for this debt.

 

Steps to follow

To proceed, you must provide:

  • The tenant’s first and last name and date of birth;
  • Their two most recent known addresses;
  • A copy of the judgment in PDF format.

It is important to note that the tenant’s date of birth or Social Insurance Number is required to complete the registration. Ideally, using both pieces of information allows you to identify the correct individual with greater certainty.

L.A. Agence de Recouvrement offers a judgment registration service. For more information or to submit a request, complete this form.

 

 

In a context where landlords cannot require a security deposit in Québec, registering a tenant judgment with a credit bureau remains a relevant tool to protect their rights and limit financial losses.