Free rent: One month offered to attract tenants

In a changing rental market, more and more landlords are offering one month of free rent to help lease a unit.
This leasing strategy has made a noticeable comeback this year, particularly in areas where competition is strong or where units remain vacant for longer periods.

The Québec Landlords Association (APQ) reminds landlords that while this practice can be an effective tool, it must be used thoughtfully, as it carries financial, legal, and operational implications.

For a landlord, offering an incentive such as a free month can help:
- accelerate the signing of the lease;
- reduce vacancy periods;
- stand out from neighbouring buildings.

But beyond its effectiveness, this incentive is not without consequences if it is not drafted and framed properly in the lease.
It is also possible that some tenants may be attracted solely by the incentive, leading to a quicker re‑rental of the unit in the near future.
Some tenants may be drawn to the offer but be less stable in the long term.

How to structure a free month effectively
The APQ recommends clearly framing the incentive to avoid misunderstandings.

1. Clearly mention the incentive in the lease.
Example: “The rent for September 2026 will be free. This free month does not apply to lease renewals; therefore, the rent for September 2027 will be payable like any other month.”
The actual rent must be written in the lease, and the free month must be described as a one‑time promotion, not a permanent reduction.

2. Avoid ambiguous wording.
Always specify the exact month offered; clarify that the incentive does not change the monthly rent and that the offer does not renew automatically.

3. Never renew the free month.
You must not offer another free month at the time of lease renewal.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.