Can Landlords Reject Tenants on Assistance in Manitoba?

Are you worried about being rejected from a rental because you receive assistance like employment and income assistance (EIA) or disability payments? If you’re a tenant in Manitoba, it’s important to know that the law aims to protect you from discrimination based on your source of income. This article will help you understand your rights, what landlords can and cannot do, and the steps you can take if you believe you’ve been discriminated against in Manitoba.

Your Rights as a Tenant on Assistance in Manitoba

In Manitoba, landlords must follow rules that protect tenants from unfair discrimination. The Human Rights Code bars landlords from refusing to rent to someone because of their "source of income," which includes most forms of lawful government and disability assistance.^[1]

• You cannot be denied housing simply because you receive EIA, disability, pension payments, or other lawful income support.
• Landlords may still screen tenants based on other legitimate factors like credit, references, or rental history—but not just because of your income source.
• Landlords violating this right may face complaints through the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

If a landlord tells you, "We don’t rent to people on social assistance," or "We only want working tenants," this could be discrimination.

Which Laws Protect You?

Your rights stem primarily from:

• The Human Rights Code (Manitoba)
• The Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba (general rental protections)

These laws work together to ensure fair treatment for all tenants, regardless of how they pay rent.

Common Examples of Discrimination Based on Assistance

Discrimination can take obvious or subtle forms. Examples include:

• Ad listings that say “No social assistance” or similar wording
• A landlord turning down your application after learning your rent will be paid by EIA or another assistance program
• Requiring higher deposits only from tenants on assistance

Steps to Take if You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you’ve been denied a rental or treated unfairly because you’re on assistance, here’s what you can do:

• Keep a record of communications (texts, emails, voicemails)
• Take screenshots or save ads that show discriminatory language
• Ask the landlord to put the reason for their decision in writing (they may refuse, but it’s worth asking)

After collecting details, tenants can file a formal complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission (MHRC).

How to File a Human Rights Complaint

• Form: MHRC Complaint Form
• When to Use: If you’ve been denied housing or treated differently because you receive a lawful income source, such as EIA or disability payments.
• How to Use: Fill out the form with your details, describe what happened, and attach any supporting documentation. Submit by email, mail, or in person to MHRC.

For more general information about landlord and tenant obligations throughout Manitoba—including dispute resolution, rent increases, and deposit rules—see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Tips for Tenants: Applying for Rentals While on Assistance

• Submit completed applications with all relevant documents, including proof of income (EIA statement, pension, benefits letter)
• Consider providing references to show reliability
• Understand your right to equal treatment under the law

Landlords can ask for references, rent payment ability, and background checks—but not discriminate solely on assistance status. For more on what landlords can and cannot require, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Certain local agencies may offer additional support when you experience housing discrimination. Reach out if you need guidance through the complaint process.

Looking for a new place? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and discover accessible options in your city.

FAQ: Tenant Discrimination and Rental Assistance in Manitoba

1. Can a landlord in Manitoba refuse to rent to me because I’m on social assistance?
   No, Manitoba law says landlords cannot reject you solely because you receive government assistance, pension, or disability payments.
2. What should I do if I see an ad stating “No EIA” or “No social assistance”?
   Save a copy of the ad and consider making a complaint to the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.
3. Is a landlord allowed to ask about my income source?
   Landlords can ask how you will pay rent, but they cannot deny you just because your income comes from a legal assistance program.
4. Where can I get help if I think I’ve been discriminated against?
   Contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or a local tenant support service.
5. Can landlords charge a higher deposit for people on assistance?
   No, charging extra deposits only for tenants on assistance is discriminatory and not allowed under Manitoba law.

Key Takeaways

• Manitoba law protects tenants from discrimination based on assistance or income support.
• Keep records if you believe you have been discriminated against and consider filing a complaint.
• The Manitoba Human Rights Commission can help if you’ve been denied housing for being on assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Human Rights Commission: For filing discrimination complaints and support
• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): For information on tenant rights, rental deposits, and general disputes
• Employment and Income Assistance (EIA): For questions about your benefits
• For a full overview of laws and common tenant challenges, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. [1] The Human Rights Code (Manitoba), ss. 9(2)(l)
2. Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba

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