Changing the Locks in Manitoba: Tenant Rights and Legal Process

Tenants across Manitoba often ask if they have the right to change the locks on their rental unit. Whether you're concerned about safety, navigating an eviction, or simply want peace of mind, understanding what the law permits is crucial. In Manitoba, specific rules and procedures govern when and how locks can be changed, protecting both tenant security and the landlord’s rights of access.

What the Law Says About Changing Locks in Manitoba

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), neither a landlord nor a tenant can unilaterally change or add locks to a rental unit without agreement from the other party or an order from the Residential Tenancies Branch. This applies throughout the tenancy and even during eviction proceedings.^[1]

• A tenant cannot change the locks and exclude a landlord.
• A landlord cannot change the locks or prevent a tenant from entering without proper notice and legal grounds.

For more information on your general rights and responsibilities as a Manitoba tenant, please see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

When Is Lock Changing Allowed?

There are only a few circumstances where locks may be changed legally:

• With mutual written agreement between landlord and tenant.
• By an order from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
• When performing an emergency repair (for example, after a break-in), but the other party must receive keys as soon as possible.

What Should You Do If You Need to Change the Locks?

If you feel unsafe or need to change the locks for a valid reason, follow this tenant-focused process:

• First, contact your landlord to discuss your concerns. Request permission in writing to change the locks.
• If the landlord agrees, both parties should sign an agreement. Keep copies as proof.
• If the landlord refuses and you feel genuinely unsafe (e.g., after domestic violence or a break-in), you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for an order allowing the lock change.

Official Manitoba Forms and How to Use Them

If agreement cannot be reached with your landlord and you believe changing the locks is necessary, you may apply using the following form:

• Application for an Order of Possession – Form RTB 11
  When to use: This form is usually filed by landlords to regain possession, but tenants can also seek orders for access or other disputes (for example, if you're unable to access your home due to a landlord's lock change). Download Form RTB 11 here.
  Example: If your landlord has changed the locks without proper notice, you may use this form to request an order restoring your access.
• Notice of Application – Lock Change (No Number)
  When to use: If you seek permission to change the locks due to security or emergency concerns, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for guidance on a general application for an order permitting the change. There is no specific lock-change form; an application detailing your reasons and supporting evidence is required.

When you apply, be prepared to explain your reasons clearly and provide documentation (such as a police report, if relevant). The Branch will review your situation and issue a decision.

Landlord Entry, Tenant Security, and Eviction Situations

Manitoba law ensures that landlords have reasonable access to rental units for repairs and inspections. Changing locks without landlord consent can affect your ability to get repairs promptly or may result in legal action. If the landlord is seeking eviction or has provided a legal notice to end your tenancy, they cannot change the locks until after receiving an Order of Possession and the tenancy has officially ended.

To better understand your and your landlord's obligations—including who is responsible for locks and security features—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Regular communication, knowing the law, and documenting all agreements ensure your security and help prevent misunderstandings.

Staying Safe: Emergencies and Repairs

If a lock is damaged or your safety is threatened by a break-in, you may need to act quickly. Always let your landlord know right away, make emergency repairs if needed, and provide new keys as soon as possible. For information on urgent repair rights, read Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

For anyone searching for a new home after a lock change or conflict, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Changing the Locks and Tenant Security in Manitoba

1. Can a tenant change the locks without landlord permission?
   No. Manitoba law states that you cannot change the locks, add locks, or alter access to the unit without the landlord's agreement or a specific order from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
2. What should I do if my landlord changes the locks without notice?
   Contact the landlord to request immediate access, and if not resolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for an order restoring your access using Form RTB 11.
3. Are there situations where I can change locks right away?
   If security or urgent safety is at risk (such as after a break-in), you may change the lock, but you must promptly provide the landlord with a new key unless there is a court-ordered exception.
4. Can my landlord evict me for changing the locks?
   Unauthorized lock changes are grounds for eviction. Landlords must apply through the Residential Tenancies Branch to end the tenancy for this reason.
5. Do tenants pay for lock changes?
   Unless the lock change happens because of a defect or required repair (which is the landlord’s duty), tenants usually pay if they request it for personal reasons.

Key Takeaways

• Lock changes in Manitoba rentals require mutual consent or a Residential Tenancies Branch order.
• Both landlord and tenant must always have access unless a tribunal or court says otherwise.
• Document all agreements and promptly communicate with your landlord for safety and legal compliance.

Knowing these rules helps avoid legal disputes and protects your rights as a Manitoba tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch – Manitoba: For applications, lock-change disputes, and tenancy advice (Phone: 204-945-2476 or 1-800-782-8403; Email: rtb@gov.mb.ca).
• Manitoba Tenancy Forms: Official forms, including possession and dispute applications.
• Manitoba Advocate for Tenants: Advocacy and support for tenant rights and security.

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1. See Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), Section 64 on locks, keys, and access (Government of Manitoba).
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (Official Manitoba Tribunal): Residential Tenancies Branch Website
3. For forms and applications: Official Forms Library – Government of Manitoba

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