What is considered a landlord breach in Manitoba?

A landlord breach includes unmet repairs, unlawful entry, withholding deposits without cause, or improper rent increases in violation of tenancy law or your agreement.

How does a tenant prove losses when claiming compensation?

Tenants should keep evidence such as photos, receipts, emails, and notes on how the landlord's actions affected them. These strengthen compensation claims.

What is the time limit for filing a claim?

You generally have up to two years from discovering the issue to apply for compensation. File as soon as you can.

Is there a fee to submit a claim for compensation?

There is a fee, but the Residential Tenancies Branch can waive it for eligible tenants facing financial hardship.

What do I do if my landlord ignores an RTB compensation order?

You can submit the Application for Enforcement of an Order (Form 2) to help collect any money owed by your landlord.

Compensation When Manitoba Landlords Breach Tenant Rights

Landlord Compliance & Penalties Manitoba published: June 19, 2025

If your landlord in Manitoba fails to meet their legal obligations, you may be entitled to compensation. This guide explains what counts as a landlord breach, what kinds of compensation are available for tenants, and the steps you can take to protect your rights, under Manitoba's tenancy laws.

Understanding Landlord Breaches in Manitoba

In Manitoba, landlords have a duty to maintain the rental property, follow the terms of your lease, and comply with provincial legislation. Common landlord breaches include unlawfully entering your unit, failing to make repairs, improper rent increases, or neglecting health and safety issues. When these responsibilities aren't met, tenants may be eligible for compensation.

Examples of Landlord Breaches:
Failure to complete essential repairs (such as plumbing, heating, or electrical issues)
Entering your unit without proper notice
Withholding or delaying the return of your security deposit after moving out
Not providing written notice for rent increases or eviction
Allowing unsafe or unhealthy living conditions

The main law covering these duties is Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act ^[1].

Types of Tenant Compensation Available

Tenants in Manitoba can apply for different types of compensation, depending on the landlord's breach:

Rent reduction or abatement: If your enjoyment of the rental unit is reduced (for example, due to ongoing repairs or loss of service).
Reimbursement of expenses: For costs you had to cover because the landlord didn't fulfill their duties (like paying for your own repairs or emergency accommodations).
Return of security deposit: If unlawfully withheld. For more on this process, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

When to Make a Compensation Claim

You may want to file a claim if your landlord:

Does not act on written repair requests within a reasonable time
Withholds your deposit without reason
Enters your premises repeatedly without notice
Does not follow proper rules for rent increases or eviction

If you're unsure if your situation qualifies, the Residential Tenancies Branch can provide guidance. For a summary of landlord and tenant legal duties, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Claim Compensation: Steps and Required Forms

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is Manitoba's housing authority in charge of resolving rental disputes. To claim compensation for landlord breaches, you must formally apply using their forms:

Application for an Order of Compensation (Form 3)

What it is: The Application for an Order of Compensation (Form 3) is the official form tenants use to request money from landlords due to breaches such as missed repairs or deposit issues.
When to use: If your landlord owes you money or hasn't met legal obligations concerning your rental.
How to use: Complete the form, provide supporting evidence (photos, letters, receipts), and submit it to the RTB. Example: If a landlord refuses to repair broken heating and you paid for alternative heating, include receipts and your complaint history.

Other Useful Forms

Application for Enforcement of an Order (Form 2) – Used if you have an order against your landlord and they have not paid or complied.
Keep records and copies of all correspondence, photos, and receipts as evidence to support your case.

If your landlord fails to address major repairs or delays deposit refunds, taking timely action can help protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submitting Form 3, the RTB will inform your landlord and arrange a hearing. Both parties present their evidence and statements. The Branch may issue an order requiring the landlord to pay compensation or meet other terms. Orders are legally binding.

If the landlord does not comply with the order (for example, failing to pay the awarded amount), tenants can file Form 2 to enforce it. For a step-by-step guide to handling general rental disputes, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Typical Compensation Scenarios

Each tenant’s situation is unique, but these common issues often result in compensation:

Unfinished Repairs: Prolonged lack of hot water or heating—RTB may order rent abatement for the period affected.
Deposit Deductions Without Cause: If the landlord reduces your deposit for normal wear and tear, you can apply to reclaim it.
Health or Safety Neglect: Serious concerns (like pests or mold) may entitle you to a rent reduction or reimbursement for temporary relocation. To learn more about health and safety standards, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Be prompt: There are generally time limits for filing after a problem occurs—don't delay if you intend to make a claim.

For a full list of tenant and landlord rules, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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FAQs: Tenant Compensation in Manitoba

What is considered a landlord breach in Manitoba?
A landlord breach can be any failure to follow rules under the provincial law or your rental agreement—such as neglecting repairs, entering without notice, or improper notice for rent changes.
How does a tenant prove losses when claiming compensation?
Keep detailed evidence like photos, emails, receipts, and a record of how the breach has affected you. This strengthens your claim with the RTB.
What is the time limit for filing a claim?
Generally, tenants must apply within two years of discovering the issue. File as soon as possible to avoid missing out on compensation.
Is there a fee to submit a compensation claim?
Yes, there is a filing fee with RTB. However, if you cannot afford it, the Branch may consider waiving it; contact them for details.
What if my landlord ignores the RTB's compensation order?
File the Application for Enforcement of an Order (Form 2) to help collect any money awarded by the Branch.

Conclusion: Key Points for Tenants

Landlords must follow Manitoba's rental laws and your lease terms—if not, you may be owed compensation.
Claim compensation through the Residential Tenancies Branch using official forms and strong evidence.
Act quickly, keep good records, and reach out for support if you need help understanding your rights.

If you believe your landlord has breached their responsibilities, knowing your rights and following the right process can help you protect your interests.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): The official tribunal for handling Manitoba rental disputes. Get forms, guides, and contact information at manitoba.ca/cca/rtb
Tenants’ Rights Information: Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a full overview.
Community Legal Education Association: Free legal information for tenants in Manitoba — communitylegal.mb.ca
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