When you acquire an item through a long-term lease, you pay to be able to use it for the entire length of the lease contract.

The Consumer Protection Act has special provisions to govern lease contracts of goods that cover a leasing period of 4 months or longer. A contract that contains a clause by which the leasing period may be extended to 4 months or longer are also covered by these provisions.

In Québec, long-term lease contracts with purchase option are most often used.

Long-term lease with purchase option

The purchase option allows you to buy the item for the price and under the conditions set forth in the contract. The merchant must specify the price you will have to pay to purchase the item, or how to calculate this amount, as well as any other conditions to be fulfilled. The purchase option is usually exercised at the end of the lease. In many cases, however, you can exercise this option earlier.

Your obligations

You must make your payments, abide by the contract's terms and conditions (as long as they are legal and reasonable) and use the item with care. If you choose not to avail yourself of the purchase option at the end of the lease contract, you must return the item in good condition, notwithstanding normal wear.

The merchant's obligations

The merchant must lease you an item in good condition and free of hidden defects. The item must fit for normal use over a reasonable period of time, based on the price paid and the terms of the contract.

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Last update : May 3, 2021

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The information contained on this page is presented in simple terms to make it easier to understand. It does not replace the texts of the laws and regulations.