Even if it seems like summers have lasted a bit longer in Quebec in recent years, don’t be fooled: snow has already fallen in some regions of Quebec. Don’t let winter catch you by surprise. Here are some reminders to help you get ready.
Winter tires: the earlier, the better!
Winter tires are mandatory in all regions of Quebec as of December 1st. But don’t wait until the last minute. You might have trouble finding a garage before the deadline if you delay too much.
Depending on where you live, meteorologists recommend changing your tires even earlier: before mid-November in Montreal, but by the beginning of November in the Laurentians, Lanaudière, the Eastern Townships, Montérégie, and Mauricie. If you live in Abitibi, the ideal time to make the switch is in early October.
In addition, as Météo Média points out, tire rubber becomes less adherent when the temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius – just one more reason to change your tires early!
Snow shelters for your car: the rules
Do you hate clearing the snow off your car? If so, you may be among the many motorists who install snow shelters in their driveways. But be careful! The rules regarding these shelters differ from one municipality to another. These rules can determine:
- The size of the shelter,
- When it can be installed and for how long,
- The need to get a permit beforehand – in some places, it’s mandatory!
Heating: what temperature?
Does your lease state that heating is included in your rent? If so, you probably can’t control the temperature in your apartment. But you don’t have to just cope with cold temperatures by putting on an extra sweater. No matter how cold it is outside, your landlord must make sure that the temperature is adequate in your apartment.
While there is no minimum temperature set by law, the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL or rental board) has said that the temperature must stay above a certain minimum (about 21 degrees Celsius) under normal weather conditions.