Quebec moving day tips for when plans go wrong

Quebecers moving on July 1 are being reminded of their rights and options if a move does not go as planned. Charles Tanguay, a spokesperson for the province’s consumer protection office, says movers can arrive late, damage belongings, or try to charge extra fees, and each situation has different steps for consumers to follow. The article notes that most residential leases in Quebec end on June 30, making July 1 a major moving day across the province. Consumer protection officials say movingrelated complaints make up a small share of the thousands they receive each year, but the issue comes up regularly during the summer rental turnover. If a mover is late, a customer may be able to hold the company responsible for costs if the contract clearly specified the moving time. If a former tenant has not left the new home, Quebec law says the new leaseholder has the right to occupy the property on the first day of the lease, and the landlord must deal with the situation, including storing any belongings left behind. For damaged items, consumers are advised to document possessions with photos and, if possible, file a claim with the mover’s insurer. If a company demands extra fees, consumers can pay if necessary and then file a complaint with the consumer protection office or seek help from the Tribunal administratif du logement.