Revenue Quebec Cracks Down on Short-Term Rental Fraud in Montreal
Revenue Quebec has issued seven infringement notices to the co-owners of certain properties since 2023, highlighting potential violations of the Tourism Accommodation Act. The lack of oversight in permit issuance by the Quebec Tourism Industry Corporation (CITQ) is posing challenges for municipal authorities in Montreal.
Investigations have revealed that at least 11 modern apartment listings in Ville-Marie are displaying the same false CITQ registration number. Furthermore, dozens to hundreds of short-term rental listings across Montreal are using non-existent or expired provincial registration numbers, a practice prohibited by law. A search on Airbnb alone found 112 such listings over five consecutive nights.
The owner of a building on rue Viau pressured tenants to leave in 2023, leading to evictions, to carry out work. Meanwhile, many studios and rooms at the same address are being offered for rent on short-term rental platforms with mismatched permit numbers. Neighbors have reported issues with parties and drinking at the property, causing disturbance to other residents.
At least three apartments at 3420 and 3422, rue Hochelaga are also being offered for rent with false registration numbers. Revenue Quebec, responsible for enforcing the act and imposing fines, is investigating these violations.
The misuse of registration numbers in short-term rentals is a growing concern in Montreal. Municipal authorities, with support from Revenue Quebec, are working to address these issues and ensure compliance with the Tourism Accommodation Act. Tenants and neighbors are encouraged to report any suspected violations.
