5 Essential Facts About Rent & Deposits for Manitoba Tenants

If you're renting in Manitoba, understanding your rights around rent and deposits is critical. Manitoba’s rental laws set out clear rules for tenants and landlords alike—from how much rent can be charged up front, to when it can be increased, and how deposits are managed. Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or navigating a new rental situation, knowing these essentials ensures you’re protected and confident in your tenancy.

1. Rules for Security Deposits in Manitoba

Landlords in Manitoba can ask for a security deposit, but the Residential Tenancies Act restricts the amount to half a month’s rent.^[1] The deposit must be held in trust and can only be used for certain things, like damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent. Tenants are entitled to interest on their deposit once they move out.

• Security deposit amount: Max 50% of one month’s rent
• Landlord must provide a written receipt
• Deposit must be returned (with interest) unless money is owed for qualified reasons

Learn more details about deposits in Manitoba, including timelines and common issues, by visiting Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Official Form: Security Deposit Return Form (RTB Form 12)

Use this form when requesting the return of your security deposit at the end of your tenancy. If your landlord hasn’t returned your deposit within 14 days after you move out, submit this form to the Residential Tenancies Branch. Access Form 12 here.

2. Paying Rent: Timing, Methods, and Receipts

Rent is generally due on the first day of each month unless your lease states otherwise. Landlords must provide a receipt if rent is paid in cash or if requested by the tenant. Manitoba law also requires clear written notice for changes to the rent payment method.

• Always pay rent on time to avoid late fees or potential eviction proceedings.
• Keep all receipts or proof of payment for your records.
• If you encounter payment difficulties, contact your landlord promptly to discuss solutions.

For a deeper explanation of your rights, responsibilities, and practical advice on paying rent, review Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

3. Rent Increases: Notice and Annual Limits

Rent increases in Manitoba are tightly regulated. By law, landlords can usually increase rent only once every 12 months, and must provide tenants with at least three months’ written notice using the proper form. There is also a provincially-set maximum percentage by which rent can be increased each year, unless an exemption applies.^[2]

• Annual rent increase guideline announced by the province (see the official guideline).
• Raise must use Notice of Rent Increase (RTB Form 2) — download here.
• Notice must be given in writing at least 3 months in advance.

If you believe a rent increase doesn’t follow the rules, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch to dispute it.

4. Getting Your Security Deposit Back

When your tenancy ends, your landlord must return your security deposit (with interest) within two weeks of your move-out date, unless deductions are justified (such as for lasting damage or unpaid rent). If your landlord withholds your deposit money:

• Request an itemized statement of deductions
• If you disagree, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch using the Security Deposit Return Form (see above)
• Document the condition of the rental unit upon moving out, ideally with photos and an inspection report.

For tips on maximizing your chances of getting your deposit returned with interest, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

5. Where to Get Support: The Residential Tenancies Branch

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) administers and enforces rental laws in Manitoba. If you have a dispute over rent, deposits, or any part of your tenancy, you can file an application or ask for help through the RTB. Common reasons tenants contact the RTB:

• Disputing rent increases
• Filing for the return of a deposit
• Resolving issues about repairs, entry, or eviction

For a province-wide overview of tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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FAQ: Rent & Deposits in Manitoba

1. Can my landlord ask for two months’ rent as a security deposit?
   No. In Manitoba, landlords can only ask for up to half of one month’s rent as a security deposit.
2. How soon does my landlord have to return my deposit when I move out?
   Your landlord has 14 days to return your deposit (plus interest) after you move out, unless there are deductions for damages or unpaid rent.
3. How often can my landlord raise the rent?
   Normally only once every 12 months, with at least three months’ written notice and subject to the annual guideline set by the province.
4. Can I dispute a rent increase?
   Yes. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch if you believe a rent increase was not done properly or exceeds allowable limits.
5. What should I do if there is a disagreement about damage deductions?
   You can submit a written application to the RTB, and both sides may need to provide evidence (like inspection reports or photos).

How To: Navigating Rent and Deposit Issues in Manitoba

1. How to apply for the return of your security deposit:
   1. Wait 14 days after you move out for your landlord to return the deposit. 2. If not received, complete and submit Security Deposit Return Form (RTB Form 12) to the Residential Tenancies Branch with your details and evidence.
2. How to dispute a rent increase:
   1. Check whether the notice and timing match provincial rules. 2. Fill out an Application for Order of the Director (RTB Form 3) and submit it with supporting documents to the RTB before the new rent takes effect.
3. How to get proof of your rent payments:
   1. Ask your landlord for a written receipt each time you pay, especially if paying in cash or by cheque. 2. Keep copies of e-transfers or bank statements for your files.

Key Takeaways

• Security deposits in Manitoba are limited to half a month’s rent and must be returned with interest within 14 days after tenancy ends.
• Rent increases are regulated—check the notice period and the annual guideline limit.
• You can always reach out to the Residential Tenancies Branch for help with disputes or questions.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Official government body for tenants and landlords in Manitoba.
• RTB Forms Portal: Download all necessary forms for rent, deposits, and disputes.
• For general rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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1. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act: Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancies Branch: Official Website

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