Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Deposits in Manitoba?

Many tenants in Manitoba have pets and want to understand their rights regarding pet deposits. The rules surrounding pet deposits are specific in Manitoba: landlords can request a pet damage deposit, but there are clear legal limits on the amount and how it must be handled. This guide explains Manitoba pet deposit laws, what landlords are allowed to charge, and the steps you should follow as a tenant to protect your rights.

Who Regulates Rental Housing in Manitoba?

Residential tenancies in Manitoba are regulated by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). The key legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).^[1]

Pet Deposit Rules: What Landlords Can and Can’t Charge

Landlords in Manitoba are legally allowed to require a pet damage deposit only if the landlord permits pets in the rental unit. The main rules are:

• Maximum pet deposit: The deposit cannot exceed 50% of one month’s rent, regardless of the number or types of pets.
• Separate from security deposit: Pet deposits must be collected in addition to, not instead of, the usual security (damage) deposit. Total deposits (regular and pet) cannot exceed one full month's rent.
• Assistance animals: Landlords cannot charge a pet deposit for service or assistance animals.
• Interest: Pet deposits must be held in trust and accrue interest, similar to other deposits.

It’s always wise for tenants to review the rental agreement to ensure any pet deposit is described correctly. For more on security deposits and legal limits, check Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What If the Landlord Prohibits Pets?

If your tenancy agreement says “no pets,” your landlord cannot ask for a pet deposit. Bringing in a pet contrary to the agreement can be grounds for a notice to comply or even termination of your tenancy. Always seek permission first to avoid issues.

How and When Is the Pet Deposit Paid?

The pet deposit is usually paid before moving a pet into the rental unit, or at the signing of the lease when pets are already present. Your landlord must provide a written receipt and keep this deposit separate from regular rent payments.

• If you acquire a pet during your tenancy (with your landlord’s written consent), your landlord may require a pet deposit at that time.
• Landlords cannot ask for more than the legal maximum, even if you have multiple pets.

What Happens to Your Pet Deposit When You Move Out?

Your landlord must return your pet deposit — plus interest — within 14 days of tenancy ending, minus any costs for pet-related damage (assuming you provided a forwarding address). If deductions are made, they must give you an itemized statement of damages. For more details on getting your deposit back, read How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Official Forms: Security and Pet Deposits

The Residential Tenancies Branch provides forms and resources related to security and pet deposits. The most commonly used are:

• Condition Report (Form RTB-1): Used to document the rental unit's state before move-in. Ensures any pet damage during tenancy is fairly assessed at move-out.
  Tenant Example: Complete the form with your landlord, noting any pre-existing damages. This helps avoid paying for damages caused by previous tenants or pets.
  Manitoba Condition Report (official PDF)
• Security Deposit and Pet Deposit Receipt: Landlords must provide a written receipt when collecting your deposit. Use this as proof of payment—no official form required.
  Tenant Example: Request a signed receipt when you pay a pet deposit.

Resolving Disputes about Pet Deposits

If you believe you’ve been unfairly charged, or your deposit wasn’t returned properly, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for assistance. The process is straightforward:

• Contact the landlord in writing and request the deposit back, stating your case and attaching evidence (receipts, photos, condition reports).
• If not resolved, you may file a claim through the RTB's Application for Order of Possession or Payment (official PDF).
• The RTB will review your claim, with both parties getting a fair hearing.

These steps help tenants resolve most deposit disputes efficiently and fairly.

Other Essential Rights and Resources

Understanding your full rights is important – not just on pet deposits, but also on health and safety, repairs, and dealing with landlord-tenant issues. For a comprehensive overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Looking for pet-friendly rentals or considering a move? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for the latest pet-allowed listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have a pet?
   Yes, landlords may decide not to allow pets in their rental unit. However, assistance animals (such as guide dogs) cannot be refused or be subject to pet deposits.
2. How much can my landlord charge for a pet deposit in Manitoba?
   The maximum is 50% of one month’s rent, regardless of how many pets you have.
3. What if my landlord doesn't return my pet deposit after I move out?
   If your deposit is not returned within 14 days, you can file a claim with the Residential Tenancies Branch seeking your deposit plus interest.
4. Does a pet deposit cover normal wear and tear?
   No, only actual damage caused by pets can be deducted. Normal wear and tear cannot be charged against your deposit.
5. Is a pet deposit refundable?
   Yes. If there’s no pet damage when you move out, your pet deposit (plus interest) must be returned to you.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Landlords in Manitoba can charge a pet deposit—up to 50% of one month's rent—but only if they allow pets.
• Assistance animals are exempt from pet deposits.
• All deposits must be returned with interest unless there is actual pet-related damage.

In summary: Review your tenancy agreement, keep all receipts, complete the initial inspection, and always know your rights before paying a pet deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba – For deposit disputes, forms, and information
• Phone: 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg); toll-free 1-800-782-8403
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba – Rights and responsibilities overview
• Manitoba RTB Forms and Resources
• For local tenant advocacy: Winnipeg Rent Guide & Tenant Support

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), sections 37, 38, and 39.
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba – Official Government Board

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