Where to get help if you have moving day woes

July 1 is moving day in Quebec. But with one day to go, many people are still scrambling to find a place to live. 

Montreal says at least 95 families are poised to find themselves without a home Saturday. The city said it has found temporary places to live for just 13 of those families.

All across the province, municipalities are feeling the effects of the housing crunch, prompting 14 mayors to call on the government to do more to curb unwarranted rent hikes Tuesday.

Meanwhile, renters — especially people in Montreal — are finding it harder and harder to find an affordable apartment.

But there are resources out there to help tenants who are feeling the pressure of the housing crisis. 

Here are some of them.

Every year, Montreal sets up a special 311 line for housing assistance in the weeks leading up to moving day.

People can call the line for information, relocation assistance, references to temporary housing or storage, assistance in their housing search or help applying for social housing or subsidy programs.

In 2022, more than 900 people called 311 looking for housing assistance. This year, the city said, more than 300 people had called by June 15.

Although resources are amped up in the weeks leading up to July 1, Montrealers can call 311 for help with their housing issues year round.

"For those who still haven't found accommodation, don't wait until July 1 to dial 311," said Montreal spokesperson Guillaume Rivest. "You will be directed to the right resources, and you will be supported in this difficult period."

The provincial housing tribunal (TAL), formerly known as the Régie du logement, holds exclusive jurisdiction on all matters pertaining to leases in Quebec. It has final say on evictions, rent increases and other housing disputes between tenants and their landlords.

Tenants may open a file at the TAL if their apartment isn't properly maintained, if they believe a rent hike is excessive or if they are being unjustly evicted. Landlords can also open a file against a tenant who hasn't been paying rent, for example.

The TAL's phone line is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Quebecers can call to get information on all things to do with leases.