Montreal duplex dispute leaves family in a trailer, tenants facing uncertainty

A Montreal family finds themselves in a dire situation after purchasing a duplex only to be locked out by the existing tenants. Armelle Foka bought the two-unit property in late 2025, intending to move her family in once the leases expired on June 30. Expecting a smooth transition, she gave up her own rental unit to prepare for the move. However, when July 1 arrived, the tenants remained in the building, effectively stalling her move-in plans.

Foka and her nine family members are now living in a rented trailer parked directly outside the property. The living conditions are stark, with the family relying on public restrooms and neighborhood water sources while caring for children as young as four months old. Foka states she followed all legal procedures and deadlines required for property repossession, yet the current residents refused to vacate the premises.

The tenants have challenged the repossession request through the Tribunal administratif du logement. They maintain that they have nowhere else to go and are waiting for a formal ruling from the housing tribunal. According to the tenants, the judge presiding over their case stated that a decision would not be reached before the July 1 moving deadline.

Legal experts note that the tenants are within their rights to remain until the tribunal issues its decision. Housing lawyers point out that purchasing property during a market crisis carries inherent risks, and the tribunal process often involves delays that extend beyond the expected moving dates. For now, the Foka family waits in their trailer, while the tenants stay in the duplex, both parties caught in a housing dispute that has become increasingly strained for everyone involved.