1. Interac e-Transfer

A widely used digital method, especially in neighborhoods like Griffintown or NDG where tech-savvy tenants are the norm.

Pros:

• Fast, convenient, and familiar

• Low to no transaction fees

• Instant, time-stamped payment records

Cons:

• Relies on tenants initiating payment each month

• Daily/weekly limits can delay larger transfers

Montreal Tip: Set up auto-deposit to ensure funds land directly in your account, bypassing password errors.

2. Post-Dated Cheques

Still popular among some long-term tenants in older Montreal buildings, post-dated cheques offer a traditional, paper-based approach.

Pros:

• Familiar and trusted by many Quebec tenants

• Easy to enforce in court thanks to a paper trail

Cons:

• Inconvenient to deposit manually every month

• Risk of NSF (non-sufficient funds)

• Less appealing to younger, digital-native tenants

Montreal Tip: You can accept post-dated cheques in Quebec, but it’s illegal to require them as a condition of lease signing.

Final Thoughts

No matter what system you choose, consistency is key. Clear communication with tenants, firm policies on late payments, and proper documentation will protect you legally and financially.

Whether you're managing a few units in Rosemont or scaling up a rental portfolio across Montreal, choosing the right rent collection system can improve your cash flow and reduce stress.

Need help collecting rent on time—every time?

Let Mujinga Suites Inc. take the hassle off your hands. We offer professional rent collection, tenant screening, and maintenance coordination, so you can focus on growing your investment.

Let us take care of rent collection, and you just get paid. Contact us today for a free consultation.

The good news? Today’s landlords have more options than ever. From tried-and-true methods to modern tech tools, there’s a system out there to match your style, portfolio, and tenant base.

Here are five rent collection systems every Montreal landlord should consider, with their pros, cons, and local context to help you make the right choice.

3. Property Management Software (e.g., Buildium, TenantCloud, Rentec Direct)

Perfect for landlords managing multiple properties or looking for all-in-one control.

Pros:

• Automated rent reminders, receipts, and late fee tracking

• Tenant portals reduce back-and-forth communication

• Ideal for landlords with units in multiple boroughs like Verdun, Mile-End, and Downtown

Cons:

• Subscription costs

• Requires setup and onboarding

Montreal Tip: These platforms shine when you’re juggling a triplex in Verdun and a downtown condo, letting you manage everything from one dashboard.

4. Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) Agreements

Tenants authorize your company to withdraw rent from their bank account each month.

Pros:

• Fully automated—no chasing payments.

• Reliable cash flow.

Cons:

• More setup and paperwork.

• Some tenants may be wary of giving banking access.

Montreal Tip: PAD agreements must comply with Canadian Payments Association rules and require signed tenant consent.

5. Using a Property Management Company

Letting the pros handle it—from rent collection to dealing with late payers.

Pros:

• Hands-off, stress-free experience.

• Professional follow-ups and enforcement.

• Ideal for out-of-town landlords or busy investors.

Cons:

• Management fees apply (typically 8–10% of monthly rent).

Montreal Tip: A local company like Mujinga Suites understands Quebec tenancy law and bilingual communication standards, which can make a world of difference in tenant relations.