Filing a Tenant Complaint in Manitoba: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re renting in Manitoba and experiencing unresolved issues like maintenance delays, deposit problems, or health and safety concerns, you have the right to file a complaint. Knowing the process helps ensure your concerns are taken seriously and addressed fairly under Manitoba's rental laws.

Understanding Your Rights and When to File a Complaint

Before filing a complaint, it's important to be aware of your rights as a tenant in Manitoba. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the provincial authority responsible for handling disputes between tenants and landlords. Manitoba tenants are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, which outlines your rights regarding rent, repairs, deposits, and more.^[1]

Common reasons for filing a complaint include:

• Unaddressed health and safety concerns, such as mould, pests, or lack of heat
• Improper handling of security or damage deposits
• Disputes about repairs, rent increases, or rule enforcement
• Problems with notice requirements for entry or eviction

For general issues tenants may face, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them. If your problem relates to deposits, Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know provides helpful background.

Steps to Filing a Tenant Complaint in Manitoba

Many complaints can be resolved by discussing the issue directly with your landlord first. If that doesn’t work, the RTB offers a clear formal complaint process for tenants.

Step 1: Try to Resolve the Issue Directly

• Document the problem and your communication with your landlord (emails, texts, photos, letters)
• Allow your landlord a reasonable time to address the concern

Step 2: Gather Supporting Evidence

• Rental agreement and receipts
• Photos of the issue (e.g., repairs needed, pests, safety hazards)
• Copies of repair requests or complaints

Step 3: File an Application with the RTB

To start a formal complaint, file the appropriate application form with the Residential Tenancies Branch. Some of the most used forms include:

• Application for Order of Possession (RTB Form 1A)
  When to use: If you're responding to an eviction or want to dispute a notice.
  Access the official form here.
• Application for an Order of Remedy (RTB Form 2)
  When to use: If you need the landlord to complete a specific action, such as repairs.
  See the current Application for Remedy form.
• Security or Pet Damage Deposit Claim (RTB Form 10)
  When to use: If your deposit was withheld unfairly.
  Download the deposit claim form here.

Submit completed forms in person, by mail, or email to your local RTB office. Instructions are provided on each form.^[2]

What Happens After You File?

Once your application is received, the Residential Tenancies Branch will process your complaint. The process generally includes:

• Notice to your landlord (they will get a copy of your application)
• A mediation session to attempt informal resolution (when appropriate)
• Scheduing a hearing if the issue cannot be resolved informally
• A formal written decision (or 'Order'), which is binding

Health and Safety Complaints

If the issue threatens your safety or health (for example, no heat in winter, serious leaks, or unsafe wiring), contact your local Public Health Inspector or municipal authority in addition to the RTB. For more details, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Your Rights Under Manitoba Law

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba page offers a helpful overview of your rights in the province. The Residential Tenancies Act protects tenants and sets procedures for disputes, evictions, deposits, and repairs.^[1]

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you’re considering your next move or comparing options.

FAQs: Tenant Complaints in Manitoba

1. What types of complaints does the RTB handle?
   The RTB handles issues such as unlawful rent increases, failure to return deposits, poor maintenance, health and safety violations, eviction disputes, and complaints about rule enforcement.
2. Is there a fee to file a tenant complaint?
   Most applications to the RTB require a modest fee (usually under $100). Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship; check the form or ask RTB staff for the latest information.
3. How long does it take to resolve a complaint?
   Timing can vary. Mediation often happens within weeks, while full RTB hearings may take several months depending on case complexity and scheduling.
4. Can tenants appeal RTB decisions?
   Yes, if you disagree with a decision, you may request a review or appeal within a set time. See the RTB's website for specific timeframes and requirements.
5. What if my landlord retaliates after I file a complaint?
   It's illegal for landlords to retaliate (e.g., by eviction or harassment) against tenants who file a complaint. If this happens, document everything and contact the RTB immediately.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Try to resolve issues directly with your landlord and keep good records
• Use RTB forms to file complaints about deposits, repairs, or evictions
• The Residential Tenancies Branch protects your rights under provincial law
• Acts of retaliation by landlords are illegal; seek help if this occurs

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), Manitoba – Advice, forms, and dispute resolution: Official RTB Website
• RTB General Inquiries: Phone 204-945-2476 or Toll-Free 1-800-782-8403
• Public Health Inspectors: List of offices by region
• Legal Help: Contact Legal Aid Manitoba for free or low-cost legal advice
• See detailed rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, Manitoba – Read the full legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), Manitoba – Official tenant complaint and dispute forms

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy