Discrimination and Accessibility for Tenants in Manitoba

Starting a new tenancy in Manitoba? It's important to know your rights concerning discrimination and accessibility under the law. Understanding these rights protects you against unfair treatment and ensures you have equal access to housing. Whether you're new to renting or moving into another property, this guide covers what discrimination and accessibility mean for tenants, which laws protect you, and the steps to take if your rights are violated.

What Is Discrimination in Housing?

Discrimination occurs when a landlord or someone acting on their behalf treats you unfairly or denies you housing based on personal characteristics that are protected by Manitoba law. The Human Rights Code of Manitoba sets out these protections and applies to all rental housing in the province.^[1]

Protected Grounds in Manitoba

Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you or treat you differently because of:

• Race, ethnic origin, or nationality
• Sex, gender identity, sexual orientation
• Religion or creed
• Family or marital status
• Age
• Disability or physical/mental ability
• Source of income (such as social assistance)
• Other characteristics covered by the Human Rights Code

For new tenants, this means a landlord cannot legally ask for information or impose rules that differentiate between people based on these factors.

Examples of Discrimination in Tenancy

• Denying your rental application because you have children
• Refusing to accommodate your disability when reasonable changes are possible
• Advertising "adults only" or "no children" units (except in very limited circumstances allowed by law)
• Requiring extra deposits because of your ethnicity or disability

If you experience any of these, your rights may have been violated.

Accessibility Rights for Tenants

All tenants deserve equal access to rental housing, including people with physical or mental disabilities. Manitoba's laws require landlords to make reasonable accommodations. This is called the duty to accommodate.

• Allowing service animals, even if pets are not generally permitted
• Permitting minor modifications (like grab bars or ramps) at the tenant's cost, if the change doesn't cause the landlord undue hardship

If you need changes to your home because of a disability, discuss your needs with your landlord as soon as possible. They must consider your request unless it is very difficult or expensive (called "undue hardship").

If you believe you've been denied fair access to housing because of a disability or other protected ground, you have the right to file a human rights complaint in Manitoba.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

The Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba oversees renting laws in the province.^[2] Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act provides specific protections for both tenants and landlords regarding discrimination, privacy, and accessibility.^[3]

To learn about both parties’ general duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What to Do if You Experience Discrimination

• Keep records of any conversations, emails, or advertisements that seem discriminatory.
• Ask the landlord in writing for clarification or to reconsider the decision.
• If the issue is unresolved, file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

If discrimination concerns arise after move-in, you can visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more information on resolving conflicts.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

• Human Rights Complaint Form: Use this form to file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission if you believe you have experienced discrimination. You can find it on the official Manitoba Human Rights Commission website.
  For example: If your landlord refuses to allow a service animal in a "no pets" building, fill out and submit this form online or by mail with your supporting documents.
• Accommodation Request Letter: Not an official government form, but you should always document any requests for disability accommodations in writing. Clearly state your needs and provide any medical documents if needed.

These forms help make sure your complaint is processed quickly and fairly.

Where to Get More Information

For a comprehensive overview of renting laws, including anti-discrimination and accessibility, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

You may also Browse apartments for rent in Canada to see inclusive housing options.

FAQ: Discrimination and Accessibility for Manitoba Tenants

1. What characteristics are protected against discrimination in Manitoba rentals?
   Manitoba law prohibits discrimination in rental housing based on race, ethnicity, gender, disability, age, family status, and more.
2. Can my landlord refuse my service animal if pets are not allowed?
   No, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities, including allowing service animals, even in "no pet" buildings.
3. What is the process to file a discrimination complaint?
   Complete the Human Rights Complaint Form and submit it to the Manitoba Human Rights Commission with any evidence of discrimination.
4. Does my landlord have to modify my unit if I have accessibility needs?
   They must consider reasonable requests, unless it poses significant difficulty or cost. Minor retrofits are often accommodated.
5. Where can I find more about tenants' rights in Manitoba?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for details.

How To Take Action If You Face Discrimination as a Tenant in Manitoba

1. How do I request an accommodation for my disability?
   Write a clear letter or email to your landlord explaining your needs and provide any supporting documentation (such as a letter from your healthcare provider).
2. How do I file a complaint about discrimination?
   Fill out the Human Rights Complaint Form from the Manitoba Human Rights Commission's website and provide records supporting your case.
3. How do I appeal a landlord's denial of my accommodation request?
   First, ask your landlord in writing for a clear explanation. If denied without a reasonable reason, file a complaint with the Commission.
4. How can I prepare for my complaint?
   Keep any written communication, ads, and notes from conversations as evidence of discrimination.

Key Takeaways

• Discrimination and inaccessibility are prohibited in rental housing under Manitoba law.
• Landlords must accommodate disabilities unless it causes undue hardship.
• Official complaints can be filed with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission if your rights are violated.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba: Information and dispute resolution for residential tenancies
• Manitoba Human Rights Commission – File a Complaint
• Accessibility for Manitobans: Information on accessibility requirements
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. [1] Manitoba. Human Rights Code, C.C.S.M. c. H175. Accessible at: Manitoba Human Rights Code (official text)
2. [2] Manitoba. Residential Tenancies Branch. Official RTB website
3. [3] Manitoba. Residential Tenancies Act, C.C.S.M. c. R119. Accessible at: Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act (official text)

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