As a tenant in Manitoba, you expect safe, working common systems like elevators in your building. When an elevator breaks or requires maintenance it affects access, safety and daily routines for renters, visitors and people with mobility needs. This guide explains tenant rights around routine and emergency elevator repairs, who is responsible for costs, timelines for fixes, and steps you can take if repairs are delayed. It also shows how to document problems, communicate with your landlord or building manager, and when to contact the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch to seek a resolution. Use this information to protect your right to safe, accessible housing and to resolve elevator issues effectively.
What Manitoba law says about elevators
Elevators in multi-unit residential buildings are part of the property’s common services and fall under provincial rules about habitability, maintenance and safety. The Residential Tenancies Branch administers landlord and tenant matters in Manitoba and can help if building access or safety is affected by elevator outages[1]. The Residential Tenancies Act sets out general repair and maintenance duties for landlords and useful definitions for tenants and owners[3]. For forms and step-by-step fact sheets you can use the RTB forms and factsheets page[2].
Who is responsible for elevator maintenance?
- Landlords or building owners: arrange routine maintenance, inspections and any required repairs to keep elevators safe and operational.
- Tenants: file repair requests in writing and report outages promptly to the landlord or building manager.
- Building managers: keep service logs, maintenance records and vendor reports to show timely actions taken.
- If an elevator creates an immediate safety risk, emergency procedures and safety plans should be followed and the issue reported right away.
For more on repair responsibilities in rental units see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and for urgent situations consult Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Steps to take when elevators aren't repaired promptly
If the elevator is out of service or repairs are being delayed, follow clear steps to protect access and safety. Document each action and communicate in writing so you have a record if you need to escalate.
- Document the problem with date-stamped photos or video and note times when the elevator was out of service.
- Report the issue to your landlord or building manager in writing and keep a copy or screenshot of the message.
- Allow reasonable access for technicians to inspect and repair while arranging safe alternatives for residents with mobility needs.
- If repairs are unreasonably delayed, file an application or complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch using their official application process.
- Seek additional community supports if needed (local accessibility services or emergency contacts) while the issue is being resolved.
FAQ
- Who pays for elevator maintenance and repairs?
- Generally, the landlord or building owner is responsible for maintaining common areas and equipment like elevators. Tenants should report issues promptly and may be asked to allow access for repairs.
- How long should I wait for repairs?
- Reasonable timelines depend on the problem and safety risk. Emergencies should be addressed immediately; other repairs should be scheduled promptly and documented. If delays continue, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for resolution.
- What if the elevator outage affects a tenant's mobility?
- If access or safety is compromised, notify the landlord in writing, request accommodations, and contact the RTB or local accessibility services for urgent assistance.
How-To
- Collect evidence: take photos, record dates and times of outages, and save any messages about the issue.
- Report in writing: email or deliver a written notice to your landlord describing the problem and giving a reasonable timeframe for repair.
- Provide access: agree on a time for technicians to inspect and repair, and arrange temporary accommodations for affected residents if needed.
- File with RTB: if the landlord does not act, complete the official application or complaint to the Residential Tenancies Branch to request dispute resolution.
- Follow up: attend any hearings, keep copies of documents, and use community or legal supports when necessary to enforce safety and access rights.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba)
- RTB forms and factsheets
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
