Employer Housing in Manitoba: Tenant Rights Explained

Living in housing provided by your employer in Manitoba? While your situation has some unique rules, you are still protected as a tenant. This guide breaks down your rights, the legislation, and the steps you can take if issues arise under Manitoba's laws.

Understanding Employer-Provided Housing in Manitoba

Employer-provided housing is common for agricultural workers, caregivers, or remote job sites. Your home is tied to your job, but you still have legal protections—most importantly under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)^[1].

Despite living where you work, you are recognized as a tenant, which means your employer (or company) acts as your landlord. This relationship grants you important protections and obligations. For a big-picture overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Your Basic Rights and Landlord’s Obligations

• The right to written notice: Your employer must give you proper notice (in writing) if your tenancy is ending, even if your job is ending at the same time.
• Health and safety: Your home must meet the same standards as any other rental in Manitoba. Heat, plumbing, and safety measures must be in place.
• Deposits: If a security deposit is taken, it must follow provincial rules. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Maintenance: Employers must carry out required repairs, just like any other landlord.

Having clear expectations helps reduce disputes, but it's good to know where you stand if issues arise.

Notice Periods and Eviction in Employer Housing

Eviction rules in employer-provided housing differ slightly from standard rentals. If your employment ends, your right to live in the unit also typically ends. Still, there is a legal process your employer must follow:

• If your job ends: Your employer must give at least one pay period’s notice or the notice period set in your employment contract, whichever is greater.
• If you’re being evicted for other reasons: Standard Residential Tenancies Act rules apply (e.g., non-payment of rent, significant breach of rules, or illegal activity).

Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch handles complaints related to employer-provided housing. If you receive notice and disagree, you may file a dispute (see below for the process and forms).

Key Forms for Employer-Provided Housing Situations

Below are the most important forms and how tenants should use them. All official forms are provided by Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch:

1. Notice of Termination – Standard Form

• Form name: Notice of Termination by Landlord (available here)
• When and how to use: If your employer/landlord is ending your tenancy, you should receive this written notice. It must state the termination date and the reason. Make sure the notice period matches what’s outlined in the Act for employer-related tenancies.

2. Dispute Application Form (Tenancy Disagreement)

• Form name: Application for Orders of the Director (Application for Orders of the Director form)
• When and how to use: If you believe your employer is not following the law (unfair eviction, improper notice, inadequate living conditions), complete this form and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Branch with supporting evidence.
• Example: You are told to leave immediately without notice after your job ends. You can fill out this form to challenge the eviction or seek compensation.

Health and Safety in Employer-Provided Housing

Your employer must provide safe, healthy living conditions that meet Manitoba’s standards—this includes proper heating, plumbing, and pest control. If you notice any hazards:

• Document the issue and notify your employer in writing
• If not fixed promptly, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch

Learn more about health and safety standards in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Paying Rent and Security Deposits

Rent must be collected and held according to Manitoba’s tenancy rules—even if it’s deducted from your pay.

For help organizing your rental search, check out Canada's best rental listings platform if you ever need to find a new home.

What to Do if Problems Arise

If you experience unfair eviction, unsafe conditions, or deposit issues:

• Communicate with your employer in writing first. Keep copies.
• If still unresolved, gather evidence (letters, photos, pay stubs showing deductions).
• Submit the appropriate form to the Residential Tenancies Branch and follow their process.

For details on landlord and tenant responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

FAQ: Employer-Provided Housing in Manitoba

1. What notice is my employer required to give if my job ends and I live in provided housing?
   Your employer must provide written notice that is at least as long as one of your standard pay periods, or longer as set out in your employment agreement or the Residential Tenancies Act.
2. If my housing conditions are unsafe or unhealthy, who can help?
   Contact the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch to make a complaint. You can also use their dispute process if the issue isn't addressed by your employer.
3. Can my employer take rent directly from my pay?
   Yes, but only with your consent. Make sure you receive a record or receipt of all deductions made for housing.
4. What if I think my eviction was unfair?
   Submit an Application for Orders of the Director form to the Residential Tenancies Branch to dispute the decision.
5. Are employer-provided housing tenants protected by Manitoba’s rental laws?
   Yes, they are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Employer-provided housing tenants are protected under the same laws as all Manitoba renters.
• Notice and eviction rules have unique guidelines—know your rights and act promptly if given notice.
• Reach out to Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch for help with disputes, unsafe conditions, or improper eviction.

Understanding these rules can help you protect your home—even when it’s tied to your job.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Official website | Phone: 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg) or toll-free 1-800-782-8403
• Download official forms: RTB Forms Index
• Legal assistance: Manitoba Legal Aid – legalaid.mb.ca
• General info: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): Key legislation governing housing rights
2. Residential Tenancies Branch – Province of Manitoba: Tribunal handling tenancy disputes and questions
3. Official Rentals and Landlord/Tenant Forms

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