Renting out your chalet in 7 steps

1. Check the legal and administrative requirements for chalet rentals

Before listing your chalet for rent, look into the short-term rental regulations in your municipality. You’ll need to obtain a municipal compliance certificate. This certificate is essential for getting your classification certificate issued by the Corporation de l’industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ), which is required for any rental of fewer than 31 days offered for compensation.

Your chalet will be assessed and rated on a scale of 0 to 5 stars, based on the following criteria:

• Overall quality of the chalet (building and furnishings)
• Cleanliness of the facilities
• Condition of the premises and equipment
• Services offered
• Sustainable tourism practices

2. Notify your insurer and review your chalet rental insurance

Some insurance companies accept short-term vacation rentals. Others do not. Each insurer has its own conditions—for example, the maximum total number of days rented per year.

In most cases, insurers will not cover damage to your belongings or property, nor liability for injuries sustained by your “guests,” if those events are related to short-term rental of your home.

Protections such as theft and vandalism committed by tenants may not be offered. Commercial insurance could also be required.

As for cost, it depends. Some insurers may adjust coverage at no extra charge, while others will increase your chalet insurance premium. It’s essential to consider these conditions before getting started.

Do the protections offered by rental platforms replace real insurance?

No. Some platforms, such as Airbnb or WeChalet, offer damage protection programs for incidents caused by tenants. Be aware: these protections do not replace proper home insurance. They don’t cover all types of damage or all liability situations. Exclusions are numerous, and the claims process can be complex.

Read each platform’s terms and conditions carefully, and make sure you have adequate personal home insurance in place before listing your chalet for rent.

3. Set the rental price for your chalet

Look at the competition and the local market to determine your rental rate. A price that’s too high won’t attract potential renters. Conversely, a price that’s too low may signal that the property or the location is in poor condition. From the outset, set both a peak-season rate and an off-season rate, and display them clearly.

Don’t forget to factor in service fees if the rental platform or an external service charges them.

4. Effectively promote your chalet for rent

Let as many people as possible know that your chalet is available for rent. Use online rental platforms such as Airbnb, RSVPchalets, Chalets au Québec, WeChalet, and others. Some are free; others are not. Additional charges on paid platforms vary, so do your research.

Make your listing stand out with a compelling description. Highlight key selling points such as a beautiful view, a lake, a river, or proximity to ski hills. Post attractive photos of the interior and exterior of your chalet, across all seasons.

Clearly list all the services and amenities included with your chalet: coffee maker types, hot tub, swimming pool, BBQ, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, internet access, gaming console, water sports equipment, pool table, foosball table, board games, boot dryer, and more.

5. Draft a rental agreement

The more detailed your agreement is, the better protected you’ll be and the more secure your guests will feel. Make sure your contract includes:

• Complete contact information for you and the renter
• Cost (deposit, rental fee, taxes)
• Length of stay
• Arrival and departure times
• Maximum number of guests
• What’s included and what isn’t (bedding, firewood, sports equipment, lake access, etc.)
• Cancellation conditions
• Requirements (e.g. liability insurance, curfew, etc.)

When your guests arrive, show them around the cottage (or get someone you trust to do it for you) and explain how the various equipment works. Don’t hesitate to post explanations on the walls. It’s also a good idea to have a welcome booklet with important information, emergency contact information, and reminders.

6. Store your valuables and personal belongings in a locked area

Keep a room or a large closet under lock and key for fragile belongings, valuables (even sentimental ones), and any clothes or personal products you wish to leave on site. Your daughter doesn’t want strangers using her favourite blanket? Worried about someone breaking your nice wine glasses or favourite coffee mug? Keep them in storage when you’re not at the cottage.

Of course, it’s important to leave the basic necessities so guests can enjoy their stay according to the terms of the rental agreement.

7. Keep your chalet well maintained

Clean the chalet thoroughly after each guest, and wash the towels and bedding. Restock toilet paper and paper towels. Make sure you always have enough dishes and cutlery to accommodate the maximum number of occupants. 

A lost or broken utensil, a cracked glass—these things happen, and it’s important to replace them. You should also always leave cleaning supplies available for tenants. 

Don’t have time to do it all? To avoid losing a booking or dropping stars because of a negative review, consider hiring a trusted person. You can also find a cleaning company that operates in the area near your chalet. 

If you notice any damage or breakage, fix it or have it repaired promptly. If needed, turn to CAA-Quebec’s Approved Residential Suppliers. 

Finally, don’t forget to block off a few dates for yourself so you can keep enjoying your chalet! If it’s beautiful, cozy, accessible, and set in a stunning location, potential renters are likely to come knocking.