Above-Guideline Rent Increases in Manitoba: A Tenant's Guide

If you're renting in Manitoba and have received notice of a rent increase above the guideline set by the province, it can feel overwhelming. While annual rent increases are typically capped, landlords can sometimes apply for a higher increase, known as an Above-Guideline Rent Increase (AGI). Understanding this process, your rights, and how to respond is crucial to protecting your housing stability and budget.

What Is an Above-Guideline Rent Increase?

An Above-Guideline Rent Increase (AGI) refers to a landlord’s request to raise rent above the annual percentage cap established by Manitoba’s government. For most tenants, annual rent increases cannot exceed the guideline published each year (for 2024, it's 3.0%). Landlords, however, may apply for a higher increase in certain situations—most commonly for major capital improvements, increased utility costs, or extraordinary expenses related to the property.

Who Oversees Rent Increases in Manitoba?

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba is the official tribunal handling all rent increase applications and disputes. The legislation governing this is the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).^[1]

When Can a Landlord Apply for an Above-Guideline Increase?

Landlords are only permitted to seek an above-guideline increase in certain circumstances, such as:

• Capital expenditures: Significant building repairs (e.g., new roof, windows, plumbing upgrades)
• Higher taxes or utility costs: Situations where costs have risen beyond control
• Other extraordinary expenses: Expenses outside the normal scope of operation

Your landlord must apply to the RTB and cannot raise your rent above the guideline without approval.

Notice Requirements: What Your Landlord Must Do

Your landlord must provide you with:

• Proper written notice of the rent increase at least three months before your anniversary date
• A copy of the notice to the Residential Tenancies Branch (if applying for above-guideline increase)
• The reason for the proposed increase and the details of their application

Manitoba has a standard Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-8) that landlords must use. If an above-guideline increase is requested, you should also receive documents outlining the special application. For more information, visit the RTB official forms page.

What If I'm on a Fixed-Term Tenancy?

If your lease is fixed-term, any rent increase can only take effect after your initial term ends, unless the agreement allows otherwise. This also applies to above-guideline rent increases.

How Can Tenants Respond or Object?

Tenants have the right to respond to an above-guideline rent increase application. The RTB will send you a Notice of Hearing if your landlord applies for more than the guideline. As a tenant, you can:

• File an Objection to the Above-Guideline Rent Increase (often using the information or objection form provided with the notice)
• Attend the hearing (virtually or in person) to present your concerns
• Submit written or verbal evidence (photos, receipts, or reasons why the work or costs shouldn't justify the increase)

The RTB will review both the landlord's application and any tenant responses before making a decision. If you want to prepare, learn about your Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens After the Hearing?

After the RTB hearing, the board will issue a written decision. If approved, the landlord can lawfully charge the above-guideline rent increase. If denied, your rent can only rise up to the published guideline.

Tenants or landlords who disagree with the RTB's decision may file a review or appeal according to the instructions provided in the ruling.

What About Repairs and Building Maintenance?

Landlords are responsible for maintaining their property in a safe and livable condition, regardless of rent increases. If you have maintenance or repair concerns, check out Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for your rights and practical steps.

To learn more about tenant protections and laws in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the annual rent increase guideline in Manitoba for 2024?
   The guideline is 3.0% for 2024, which is the maximum a landlord can increase rent without applying for an above-guideline increase.
2. Can I refuse an above-guideline rent increase?
   You can object to an above-guideline rent increase by responding to the notice and participating in the hearing process with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
3. How do I submit evidence if I object to the increase?
   Send documents, photos, or written statements to the RTB as per their instructions or present them during the hearing.
4. What happens if I don’t pay the increased rent?
   If the increase is not approved by the RTB, you are only required to pay the regular guideline amount. If the increase is approved and you do not pay, your landlord may issue a notice to end your tenancy.
5. Can a landlord raise the rent multiple times a year?
   No. Landlords can only increase rent once every 12 months, even if they have approval for an above-guideline increase.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Above-guideline rent increases require landlord applications and RTB approval.
• Tenants are entitled to proper notice and the opportunity to object.
• The RTB uses a hearing process to assess if an increase is justified.

Staying informed helps you protect your rights and plan your housing future confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) - Main info and applications
• RTB Tenant Support & Dispute Resolution
• Official RTB Forms (including Notice of Rent Increase and Objection Forms)
• Legal Aid Manitoba: Tenancy Law
• Browse Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for more details on provincial rules.

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1. See the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) for all legal requirements.
2. All rent increase application details provided by the Residential Tenancies Branch.

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