Can my landlord take photos of my belongings during an inspection?

Landlords in Manitoba may take photos for documentation during inspections but must avoid including personal items or obtain your consent.

Is my landlord allowed to use photos of my unit for advertising without asking?

No, landlords should not use photos containing your belongings for advertising without your written permission.

What should I do if I feel my privacy has been violated by my landlord?

Communicate your concerns to your landlord. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch using the appropriate form.

Are there any exceptions where my landlord doesn’t need permission to photograph the unit?

Photos for move-in/move-out documentation and repairs are generally allowed, but public sharing always requires your consent.

Can My Landlord Use Photos of My Rental Unit in Manitoba?

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Manitoba published June 25, 2025

Many tenants in Manitoba wonder about their privacy rights, especially if a landlord wants to take or use photos of their rental unit. Understanding what is allowed under Manitoba law helps protect your peace of mind and avoids unnecessary disputes. In this guide, we clarify when landlords can photograph rental units, how they can use those images, and the steps you can take if you have concerns.

Your Privacy Rights as a Tenant

The right to privacy in your home is protected under Manitoba's tenancy laws. While landlords can enter your unit under certain circumstances, photographing your home is subject to additional rules designed to respect your personal space.

When Can a Landlord Take Photos?

Under The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), landlords may need to take photos for specific, reasonable purposes, such as documenting the condition of the unit during inspections or for maintenance-related issues.^[1]

Inspections: Photos may be taken during move-in or move-out inspections to document the property’s condition.
Repairs: If you report damage or repairs, your landlord may take photos to arrange or verify needed work.
Marketing: Landlords usually require your written consent to photograph your belongings or occupied spaces for advertising.

If your landlord intends to photograph your unit for any other reason, especially when your belongings are visible, they must obtain your consent.

How Can Landlords Use Photos of Your Unit?

Photos taken for inspections or repairs are typically kept for records, not for public use. Manitoba privacy laws and The Residential Tenancies Act generally prohibit landlords from sharing or posting images of your personal property without permission.

If the photos include your personal items, consent is required for any public use, including advertising.
For vacant units, landlords may use photos for listings, but once a unit is occupied, your privacy must be respected.

If you feel your privacy has been breached, you have rights and recourse with Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch.

What Should You Do If You’re Concerned?

Stay proactive by knowing your rights and communicating clearly with your landlord if you have privacy concerns.

Ask why the photos are needed and where they will be used.
Request written confirmation about the scope and use of any photos taken while you occupy the unit.
If you feel uncomfortable or believe your rights were violated, you can file a complaint.

If you are preparing for a move-in or move-out inspection, photographs taken should only capture the property’s state and not your personal effects—as outlined in the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Official Manitoba Forms and How to Use Them

Documenting your rental unit’s condition or addressing a dispute over photographs may require official forms:

Condition Report (Form RTB-2): Used for move-in and move-out inspections. You and your landlord each receive a copy, documenting the state of the unit. Get the official Condition Report form here.
Tenant Request for Board Order (Form RTB-9): Use this form to apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch if you believe your privacy has been breached or if there’s a dispute over unauthorized photographs. Download RTB-9 from the Manitoba government.

Practical example: If you discover your landlord posted photos of your personal belongings online for advertising, use Form RTB-9 to request an official review of the situation.

Which Board Handles Tenant Complaints?

All tenancy disputes in Manitoba are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Branch. This board handles privacy issues, formal complaints, and disputes about improper use of photos.

For a broader understanding of your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba, which covers key legal protections for tenants across the province.

Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for trustworthy listings respecting your privacy and legal rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord take photos of my belongings during an inspection?
Landlords in Manitoba may take photos to document the unit's condition during inspections, but they should avoid capturing personal items or must ask for your consent.
Is my landlord allowed to use photos of my unit for advertising without asking?
No, a landlord should not use photos containing your belongings for marketing without your written permission. Vacant unit photos are acceptable.
What should I do if I feel my privacy has been violated by my landlord?
Communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing. If the issue is unresolved, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch using the appropriate form (RTB-9).
Are there any exceptions where my landlord doesn’t need permission to photograph the unit?
Photos are generally allowed for move-in/move-out documentation and repairs, but they must respect your privacy. Public sharing still requires your consent.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

Landlords may take photos for documentation or repairs but must not share images of your belongings publicly without your consent.
Protect your rights by requesting information and using official forms if concerns arise.
The Residential Tenancies Branch is your resource for resolving privacy disputes and tenant complaints.

Staying informed helps maintain your privacy and ensures a respectful rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Branch Manitoba: Official government website
Complaint Forms and Guidance: Access forms and process instructions here
Tenant Advocacy: Renters' Resources in Manitoba

"The Residential Tenancies Act (C.C.S.M. c. R119) — Rights to Privacy and Entry," Government of Manitoba. Read the Residential Tenancies Act
"Residential Tenancies Branch," Province of Manitoba. Official Tribunal Website