A Quebec Landlord Has To Pay Over $13k For Refusing To Rent To A Family With A Service Dog

A couple and their son are getting $13,940 from a Quebec landlord who refused to rent to them because of their service dog, Novak.

The Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse (CDPDJ) found the man discriminated against the family for a "means of alleviating a handicap" — a violation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. 

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We are making a great deal of effort to inform landlords of their obligations to respect human rights.

Philippe-André Tessier, CDPDJ President

"This judgment is another opportunity to recall that it is formally prohibited to make a discriminatory selection between applicants for the rental of accommodation," said Philippe-André Tessier, president of the CDPDJ. 

"It is essential to underline that the right to equality in the conclusion of the signing of a rental lease must not be compromised by disability, social condition, the colour of skin, sexual orientation or any other ground prohibited by the Charter," he concluded.

The CDPDJ reminds Quebecers that they all have an equal right to housing. The organization has released a handy anti-discrimination checklist for any future renters. 

This article's cover image is used for illustrative purposes only.