The Minister of the Economy and Innovation and Minister responsible for the Lanaudière region, Mr. Pierre Fitzgibbon, announces the addition of a measure relating to the protection of commercial tenants, in the form of an amendment as part of Billno. 61 – An Act to revive the Québec economy and mitigate the consequences of the state of health emergency declared on March 13, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This measure is designed to temporarily prevent any termination of a commercial lease on immovable property, as well as any eviction of an occupant for non-payment of rent due during the health emergency period. It also restricts the exercise of any seizure of goods on the leased premises, as well as the exercise of other guarantees by landlords against tenants. It will expire on August1, 2020, but may be extended by the government if the situation so requires.
“With the closure imposed on retailers in the context of the pandemic, many businesses are experiencing financial difficulties that can lead to rent arrears. The measure we are proposing today will provide greater security for retailers and allow them to focus on getting back to business. I’m confident that landlords and tenants will find common ground acceptable to both parties, to the benefit of our economic recovery.”
Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of the Economy and Innovation and Minister responsible for the Lanaudière region
