Discrimination & Accessibility Checklist for Manitoba Tenants

As a tenant in Manitoba, you are entitled to fair and equal treatment in your rental housing. Whether you’re searching for a new home or already renting, understanding discrimination and accessibility rules is essential for a comfortable and safe living environment. This guide outlines your rights, practical steps, and resources specifically tailored to Manitoba tenants.

Understanding Discrimination and Accessibility in Manitoba Rentals

Manitoba law protects tenants from discrimination based on specific characteristics and ensures landlords meet accessibility needs. Discrimination occurs when you are treated unfairly because of:

• Race, ethnicity, or ancestry
• Religion or creed
• Age
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Disability (physical or mental)
• Marital or family status
• Source of income

Accessibility means rental homes must be reasonably usable by people with disabilities, and landlords should accommodate accessibility needs unless it would cause them undue hardship.

Your Legal Protections and Manitoba’s Main Tenancy Laws

The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)¹ sets out landlord and tenant responsibilities. Human rights protections are supported by The Human Rights Code. For specific rental concerns, the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) handles complaints, forms, and dispute resolution.

If you experience discrimination or require accessibility accommodations, the first step is to notify your landlord in writing. Document your concerns and keep a copy of all correspondence. If issues persist, you can seek help from Manitoba’s authorities (see below for forms and help). For a broader understanding of your rights, check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Checklist: Discrimination and Accessibility Protections for Manitoba Tenants

• Were you asked about your background, religion, disability, or family status during screening or application? This may violate your rights.
• If you use mobility aids or require modifications (ramps, handles, visual fire alarms), did you request reasonable accommodation in writing?
• Is the building’s common area accessible (doorways, pathways, parking)? Note anything you cannot safely access.
• Have you been denied a rental or been harassed due to a personal characteristic (race, gender, disability)?
• Is your service animal welcome? Landlords must allow service animals, even if their building has a no-pets policy.

Key Manitoba Forms for Accessibility and Discrimination Issues

• Tenant Request for Reasonable Accommodation: There is no official RTB form, but it’s recommended to put your request in writing. Describe the required modification (e.g., installing grab bars, accessible locks), why it’s needed, and propose a reasonable solution. Document the date and keep copies. For more on accessibility, see the Manitoba Human Rights Commission’s accommodation guidelines².
• RTB Application for Remedy (Form 2): If your landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation or discriminates against you, apply to the RTB using Application for Remedy. Example: You request a wheelchair ramp, your landlord refuses, and you need a ruling.
  How: Fill out the Application for Remedy, attach supporting documents, and submit to the RTB by email, mail, or in-person. More information is available at the official RTB forms page.
• Manitoba Human Rights Complaint Form: To file a discrimination complaint, use the online form or PDF complaint form on the Manitoba Human Rights Commission website. Best for when a landlord’s discrimination is based on a protected ground (such as disability or family status).

Addressing Accessibility and Health & Safety Concerns

Accessibility is linked to a tenant’s right to live safely. Unsafe conditions or a landlord’s refusal to address hazards can violate your rights under the law. Learn more at Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. If maintenance or repairs are needed for accessibility (such as fixing elevators or lighting), write to your landlord and keep a record.

What To Do If You Face Discrimination or Denied Accessibility

• Gather all documents: Letters, emails, photos, and names of witnesses.
• Communicate in writing with your landlord about any concerns or requests.
• Apply to the RTB or Manitoba Human Rights Commission if the situation is unresolved. Strict timelines may apply (usually within a year for human rights complaints).

For a step-by-step guide to common issues, visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

If you’re looking for accessible rental options or want to move, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Discrimination & Accessibility Rights for Manitoba Tenants

1. What can I do if my landlord refuses to accommodate my disability?
   Document your request in writing and provide details on your needs. If your landlord refuses, you can submit an Application for Remedy to the RTB, or file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission if you believe your rights are being denied.
2. Are service animals allowed even if my building has a no-pets policy?
   Yes. Landlords must accommodate service animals as part of accessibility requirements under human rights law.
3. What qualifies as discrimination in rental housing?
   It includes being denied housing, harassed, or treated unfairly because of personal characteristics like race, age, disability, gender, religion, or family status.
4. Who can I talk to for free help with discrimination or accessibility issues in my rental?
   You can contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or the Residential Tenancies Branch for information and support (see resources below).
5. Where do I learn more about general tenant and landlord laws in Manitoba?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a full overview.

How To: Respond to Discrimination or Lack of Accessibility

1. How do I formally request an accessibility accommodation from my landlord?
   Write a letter or email clearly stating your need (for example, a ramp or visual fire alarm), explain why it’s essential for your disability, and include any supporting documentation from a medical professional if possible. Keep a copy for your records.
2. How do I submit a formal complaint if my landlord denies my request?
   Gather evidence and use the RTB Application for Remedy or file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission—both can be done online or by mail. Include all correspondence and supporting documents.
3. What happens after I file a complaint?
   The RTB or Commission will review your submission, may request more information, and can arrange for mediation or a hearing. If your complaint is upheld, they may order your landlord to make changes or pay compensation.

Key Takeaways

• Discrimination and accessibility rights are protected by Manitoba law and the Human Rights Code.
• Always document requests and keep communications in writing.
• Seek prompt help from the RTB or Manitoba Human Rights Commission if your rights are affected.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Information, forms, and complaints
• Manitoba Human Rights Commission: Discrimination and accessibility complaints
• Manitoba Accessibility Office: Accessibility resources and supports
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Manitoba Human Rights Commission: Guidelines for the Accommodation of Disabilities

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