Being faced with abandoned property is stressful for tenants and landlords alike. In Manitoba, renters should know what steps to take if belongings are left behind after a move-out, how long items must be kept, and when a landlord can dispose of or sell property. This guide explains tenant rights, landlord obligations under Manitoba tenancy rules, common forms and timelines, and practical steps to protect your belongings or resolve disputes without court. It also covers how to document items, communicate with your landlord, and where to get official help. Read on for clear, practical advice tailored to Manitoba renters navigating abandoned property at the end of a tenancy.
What is abandoned property?
Abandoned property generally means personal items left behind when a tenant has vacated a rental unit or stopped paying rent. In Manitoba, landlords and tenants should follow the guidance of the Residential Tenancies Branch and the province's Residential Tenancies Act when deciding what to do with left items.[1][2]
Landlord responsibilities and timelines
Manitoba does not provide a single mandatory form that lists specific storage days for every abandoned item; instead landlords must make reasonable efforts to contact the tenant, safely store the property, and follow RTB guidance before disposing of items. Practical steps landlords commonly follow include:
- Make reasonable efforts to contact the tenant promptly and document dates and methods of contact.
- Store items securely for a reasonable period while attempting to arrange collection or resolution.
- Provide written notice to the tenant or last known contact address describing the items and intended action.
- Keep records, photos and receipts for storage costs or disposal actions in case of disputes.
What tenants should do if items are left behind
If you discover belongings missing or left behind after you move, act quickly and keep good records. Recommended tenant actions:
- Document the situation with photos, an item list and the date you discovered the issue.
- Contact the landlord in writing (email or text plus a mailed letter if possible) asking for details about stored items and pickup arrangements.
- If the landlord claims disposal or sale, request proof of attempts to contact you and of any sale or disposal receipts.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution and include your documentation.
Forms and official resources
Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch maintains the official guidance and forms used for disputes and notices. Two commonly relevant items are listed below; the RTB site includes the full set of downloadable forms and instructions.[1]
- Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB application form). When to use: tenants use this to ask the Residential Tenancies Branch to decide a dispute about abandoned property, damages, or return of keys. Example: if your landlord disposed of items without adequate notice, file this application with your photos and correspondence as evidence.
- Notice to End a Tenancy / Written Notices (RTB notice templates and examples). When to use: landlords use RTB notice templates to inform tenants of intentions regarding property or tenancy termination; tenants use written notices to request return of belongings. Example: if you left items behind unintentionally, send a dated written request referencing the landlord's notice and ask for pickup arrangements.
For exact form names, numbers (where published), and downloadable copies, visit the Residential Tenancies Branch forms page and follow the instructions there.[1]
FAQ
- How long must a landlord keep abandoned items?
- Manitoba does not set one fixed statutory period for all items; landlords must make reasonable efforts to notify the tenant and store items for a reasonable time. Check the Residential Tenancies Branch guidance for expectations and typical timelines.
- Can a landlord sell or dispose of my belongings?
- A landlord may dispose or sell items only after making reasonable efforts to contact you and after following RTB guidance; if disposed improperly, you may apply to the RTB for compensation or remedy.
- What if I find my items damaged or missing?
- Document the condition, keep receipts and evidence of value, and file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the RTB if you cannot negotiate a resolution with the landlord.
How-To
- Document and photograph every item left behind and record dates, locations and any communication with the landlord.
- Contact the landlord in writing requesting pickup arrangements or return and keep copies of all messages and delivery attempts.
- If informal contact fails, submit an Application for Dispute Resolution to the Residential Tenancies Branch with your evidence.
- Attend any RTB hearing or mediation and present your documentation; follow the decision and deadlines provided by the RTB.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch (official information, guides and forms)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) — official legislation
Additional resources: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for searching rental listings and planning a move.
