Can a New Landlord Raise the Rent Immediately in Manitoba?

When a property in Manitoba changes ownership, many tenants wonder if their new landlord can increase the rent immediately. Manitoba’s rental laws are designed to protect tenants and outline clear rules for when and how rent can be raised — no matter who owns the property.

How Rent Increases Work When Your Landlord Changes

In Manitoba, the rules for rent increases do not change just because your landlord does. Whether the property is sold, inherited, or otherwise transferred, the new landlord inherits all existing lease terms, including rent and notice requirements. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) oversees all rental matters in the province.

Key Points for Tenants

• Rent can only be increased with proper written notice — not immediately after a property is sold.
• Your rental agreement and protections continue under the new landlord.
• All rent increase rules under the Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba still apply^[1].

If you’re unsure what to expect after signing a lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for helpful tips.

Notice Periods and Maximum Rent Increases

Manitoba law requires landlords to provide at least three months’ written notice before increasing rent. Even new landlords must follow this timeline and cannot bypass it, regardless of property ownership changes.

• Written notice: Must use the official Notice of Rent Increase form (RTB Form 2).
• Timing: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months per tenant.
• Rent control: The provincial government may set an annual rent increase guideline. Landlords wanting to exceed this must apply for approval from the RTB.

If you receive a rent increase letter right after your landlord changes, review the notice carefully and ensure it meets Manitoba’s legal standards.

Required Form: Notice of Rent Increase

• Form Name: Notice of Rent Increase (RTB Form 2)
• When Used: When a landlord plans to increase rent, including after taking ownership of a rental unit.
• How It’s Used: The landlord must fill out RTB Form 2, provide it to the tenant a minimum of three months in advance, and deliver it by an approved method (such as in person or by mail).
• Official Source: Download RTB Form 2 – Notice of Rent Increase (PDF)

For more background, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens to Your Lease When the Landlord Changes?

A new landlord cannot force you to sign a new lease or increase your rent outside the normal legal process. Your current lease — whether fixed-term or month-to-month — continues with all existing terms, including rent, deposit, and pet agreements.

• Security deposits, damage deposits, and all rights carry over to the new property owner.
• If your rental became part of a subsidized or affordable housing program, these rules still protect you.
• Learn about your full rights in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

If your new landlord asks you to pay higher rent before giving proper notice, you do not have to pay the increased amount — continue paying your current rent until you have been properly notified.

Common Tenant Concerns and Solutions

• I got a rent increase right after a sale — is this legal? Only if you received RTB Form 2 with at least three months’ advance notice and no other increase has happened in the last 12 months.
• Can I challenge an unlawful or excessive rent increase? Yes. You can contact the RTB for help or file a dispute.
• Unsure about your rent payment process or rent increases? See Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

If you’re ever unsure, keep written records and communications with your landlord for reference.

Your Action Steps If a New Landlord Tries to Raise Rent Immediately

• Check the notice: Confirm whether you’ve received a written Notice of Rent Increase (RTB Form 2).
• Check the timing: Ensure at least three months’ notice was given and that no rent increase has occurred in the last 12 months.
• If something feels wrong: Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for guidance (contact details below).
• Document everything: Always keep copies of notices and communication.

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FAQs: Manitoba Rent Increases When Landlord Changes

1. Does my lease automatically end if my landlord sells the property?
   Your lease remains valid. The new landlord must honour its terms for the duration of the agreement.
2. How much notice must a new landlord give for a rent increase?
   Three months’ written notice using RTB Form 2 is mandatory before any rent increase.
3. Is there a limit to how much a landlord can raise the rent?
   Yes. In most cases, increases must match the government’s guideline unless approved by the RTB.
4. Can my new landlord ask for a new security or damage deposit?
   No. The original deposit transfers to the new landlord as part of your existing lease.
5. Where can I get help if I think my rent increase isn’t legal?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for assistance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• A new landlord in Manitoba cannot raise your rent immediately after a property transfer.
• You must receive at least three months’ written notice (RTB Form 2) before any rent increase.
• The rules under the Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba protect you, regardless of landlord changes.

Understanding your rights ensures you’re not caught off guard and helps you act quickly if something doesn’t seem legal.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) – Official provincial agency for rental disputes, complaints, forms, and guidance.
• Manitoba Tenant Resources – Provincial information on tenant rights, housing programs, and support.
• Tenant Advocacy Groups – Many non-profits offer free advice (check your local city community groups).

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba, C.C.S.M. c. R119)

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