What’s Included in Rent in Montreal in 2025? Heat, Water, Internet, and More Explained

If you're going to be a Montreal apartment renter—be you a student, newcomer, or simply a city relocator—knowing just what's included with your monthly rental fee will better enable you to plan financially and avoid down-the-road surprises. Montreal’s rental scene is a little different from many other Canadian cities. Some things, like water and heat, are often covered.

Others, like electricity and the internet, usually aren’t. This guide breaks down what to expect, including what utilities are included in rent, how it varies between short- and long-term leases, and even what it means for those dealing with utility bills, financial planning, or consumer proposals.

What’s Usually Included in Rent?

Let’s start with the basics: what’s commonly covered by your monthly rent payment in Montreal, and how does utility usage factor into it ?

1. Heat (Chauffage)

In most Montreal apartments—especially in older buildings—heating energy is included in rent. This typically applies to units that use central heating systems like hot water radiators. Since Montreal winters are long and cold, this is a major perk.

That said, not all units include heat. Many newer or renovated apartments with electric baseboards might leave it up to tenants and the landlord to pay for heating through their electricity bill. Always double-check before signing.

Tip: Look for the phrase “chauffage inclus” in French listings or ask, “Is heat included?”

2. Water

In virtually all rental situations, water is included in rent, which can help reduce your monthly expenses . Landlords pay the municipal water fees as part of their property taxes, so this isn’t something you’ll typically be billed for directly.

3. Appliances

A fridge and stove are standard amenities in most apartments across the city. These are almost always included. However, other appliances like dishwashers, microwaves, and washers/dryers vary by unit.

Coin laundry is common in older buildings, while newer condos may come with in-unit laundry.

What’s Usually Not Included in Rent?

Just because some things are standard doesn’t mean everything is, as it often depends on personal preferences . Here’s what you'll likely have to pay for separately:

1. Electricity (Hydro-Québec)

Electricity is often not included in Montreal rental agreements, which means you may have to deal with utility companies . If you're moving into an apartment with electric heating or baseboards, this can become your largest utility expense during the winter.

Expect to open an account with Hydro-Québec. Here's a rough breakdown of average monthly electricity costs:

2. Internet

Internet is not usually included in rent for most rental property , unless it’s a furnished short-term lease or student housing.

As you continue your search, major internet providers in Montreal in 2025 include:

• Videotron

• Bell

• Fizz

• Teksavvy

Monthly plans range from $55 to $90, depending on the speed and service level.

3. Cable or Streaming Services

Most apartments do not include cable TV, which may provide less incentive to subscribe . In 2025, most renters use streaming services like Netflix or Disney+, which are billed separately.

4. Furniture

If you're signing a standard long-term lease agreement, the unit will likely be unfurnished unless stated otherwise. Short-term or furnished listings may include basics like a bed, sofa, dining table, and kitchenware—but usually at a higher monthly rate.

What Does “Utilities Included in Rent” Really Mean?

Many rental listings use the phrase “utilities included in rent”—but it doesn’t always mean everything. Typically, it refers to

✅ Heat
✅ Water
❌ Electricity (unless explicitly stated)
❌ Internet
❌ Cable or streaming
❌ Furniture

If the listing says “all included,” that might cover heat, hydro (electricity), and even Wi-Fi for your convenience —but this is rare and usually comes with higher rent.

Always ask for a full breakdown of what’s included before signing a lease. Verbal agreements aren’t enough—make sure it’s in writing.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rentals in Montreal

Short-Term Rentals (1–6 months)

Short-term rentals are often geared toward tourists, students on exchange, or new arrivals still getting settled.

These units are usually available for a 3d tour to help you visualize them better :

• Furnished

• Include heat, electricity, water, and internet

• More expensive per month

• Found on Airbnb, Kijiji, or student housing platforms

Short-term leases may require a minimum of 31 days due to city bylaws.

Long-Term Rentals (12 months+)

The majority of apartments in Montreal fall under long-term leases, which are regulated by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL).

Long-term units usually include:

• Heat ✅

• Water ✅

• Fridge and stove ✅

• Electricity ❌

• Internet ❌

• Furniture ❌

These leases offer more stability and legal protection, including limits on rent increases and lease renewal rights.

Sample Monthly Budget (1-Bedroom Apartment in 2025)

Lease Language: What to Look For

Pay close attention to lease wording and listings. Look for:

• “Chauffage inclus” = heat included

• “Électricité incluse” = electricity included

• “Tout inclus” = all included (confirm what that means!)

• “Non inclus” = not included

Always ask about tips for managing utility bills.

“What utilities are included in rent?”
“Am I responsible for setting up Hydro?”
“Is internet included?”
“Is the unit furnished?”

Get clear answers and make sure everything is outlined in the lease contract.

Bonus: Is Rent Included in Surplus Income?

For those filing a consumer proposal or going through bankruptcy, you may wonder:
“Is rent included in surplus income calculations?” This can be a critical factor, potentially leading to better financial decisions.

Yes—rent is considered a necessary living expense and is factored into your basic monthly budget. However, if your rent is unusually high compared to the average for your region, the insolvency trustee may ask for justification or suggest looking into more affordable options.

So while your rent isn’t counted as “income,” it does affect how your surplus income is calculated and how much you’re expected to pay toward your debts.

Final Thoughts

Montreal remains one of Canada’s most affordable big cities to rent in—but only if you understand what’s actually included in the rent and how to conserve energy . Heat and water are commonly covered, but things like electricity, internet, and furniture are usually your responsibility.

To avoid surprise costs, make sure you:

• Ask about all utilities included in rent

• Get everything in writing

• Compare total monthly costs, not just rent

• Factor in setup costs like Hydro and Wi-Fi

• Understand how rent impacts your surplus income if you’re navigating financial recovery

Being informed means you can confidently choose a rental that fits your needs—and your budget.