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Complaint concerning public safety

Before you begin

If you see something that creates a risk for your safety or the safety of the public, you should file a complaint using our online service.

Step 1 – Check whether your complaint can be dealt with by the RBQ.

The RBQ deals with complaints connected with the areas under its responsibility. More specifically, the RBQ oversees the safety of buildings, installations and facilities in connection with:

Pressure vessels
Elevators and other elevating devices
Building
Electricity
Petroleum equipment
Gas
Amusement park rides
Bathing places
Plumbing
Mechanical lifts

Examples of situations under the responsibility of the RBQ:

Electrocution hazard
Fire hazard
Blocked or unsuitable emergency exits
Risk of falling

Examples of situations not under the responsability of the RBQ:

Mould problems
Water infiltration
Air quality
Heating costs
Electricity costs

Step 2 – Tenant: Notify the building owner

If your complaint concerns a building in which you are a tenant, it is IMPERATIVE that you notify the building owner by sending a demand letter, otherwise the RBQ cannot process your complaint.

Give the owner of the building written notice regarding the installation or the facility involved by sending a demand letter. Give the owner a reasonable time to take corrective measures. Keep a copy of this letter. You will have to send it to the RBQ.
If the owner fails to respond, or if you are worried about the corrective measures taken, file a public safety complaint with the RBQ. You must complete the Your contact information section so we can process your complaint.
After having completed the form, you will have to send us a copy of the letter of demand and the proof it was sent, failing which the RBQ will not be able to process your complaint. You will receive the necessary information to send the documents after completing the form.

Step 3 – File a complaint with the RBQ

Complete the form

What action will be taken by the RBQ?

When the RBQ receives your complaint, it will:

first determine whether the points described are under its responsibility, and whether they contravene the Québec Safety Code
order the owner, where necessary, to implement the corrective measures it specifies
inform you of the results of its intervention, if you have provided your contact information.

How long does it take to process a complaint?

When we have studied your complaint, you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and your docket number by email or by regular mail.

For a precise knowledge of the RBQ's commitments, we invite you to consult the Declaration of services to the public.