How Tenants Can Dispute a Rent Increase in Manitoba

If you’re a tenant in Manitoba facing a rent increase you think is unfair or not allowed under provincial rules, there are clear legal steps to dispute it. This guide explains your rights under Manitoba law, how to respond to a rent increase notice, and how to file a formal dispute—supporting you every step of the way.

Understanding Rent Increases in Manitoba

Landlords in Manitoba must follow strict rules before they can increase your rent. Most residential tenancies are protected by annual rent increase guidelines set by the provincial government. In 2024, rent control rules still apply to most rental units, but there are some exceptions (like new builds and care homes).

• A landlord must give at least 3 months’ written notice before increasing rent.
• They can usually only raise rent once every 12 months.
• Rent increases above the provincial guideline require approval from the official oversight body.

To check which units or properties are covered and for more on your protection, see Manitoba rent increase rules.

What Should I Do If I Receive a Rent Increase Notice?

If your landlord gives notice of a rent increase, carefully check:

• Is the amount above the government’s annual guideline?
• Is the timing and notice period correct?
• Does the written notice meet all legal requirements?

You may wish to review Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know for general information on your rights and obligations around rent hikes.

If You Believe the Rent Increase is Not Allowed

• Do not feel pressured to accept an illegal or excessive increase.
• You are entitled to dispute an improper rent increase—formal legal protections are in place.
• Act quickly: you only have 60 days to dispute an above-guideline rent increase after receiving notice.

How to Dispute an Above-Guideline Rent Increase

In Manitoba, the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) handles rent increase disputes. The process is designed to be fair and accessible for tenants.

Required Official Forms

• Form: Application for Order — Disputing a Notice of Rent Increase (Form RCI-1)
• When to use: Submit this form if your landlord is raising your rent above the annual guideline and you wish to challenge it.
• Example: You receive a notice that your monthly rent will increase by 6%, but the annual guideline is 3%. File Form RCI-1 within 60 days of receiving the notice.

Step-by-Step Dispute Process

The process is clear and supported by the RTB. Here’s how you can take action:

• Fill out Form RCI-1 either online or by downloading the PDF from the RTB website.
• Attach a copy of the rent increase notice and any relevant communications from your landlord.
• Submit the completed form to the RTB office, in person, by mail, or email (check RTB instructions for current details).
• The Branch will schedule a hearing where both you and your landlord can present evidence.
• The RTB will issue a decision based on Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act.

If your dispute is successful, the rent increase will be reduced or denied.

Other Tenant Rights During the Process

• You cannot be evicted simply for filing a dispute or refusing to pay an unauthorized increase.
• Keep paying the current rent while the dispute is in progress.
• Know your protections; read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for more details.
• For overall rent payment responsibilities, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Disputing a rent increase does not negatively affect you as a tenant when you follow the legal process.

Timeline and Important Deadlines

• Rent increase notice must be given at least 3 months before the new rate starts.
• Tenants have 60 days from the day they receive the notice to file a dispute with the RTB.
• After a hearing, the RTB will issue a written decision for both parties.

Always act before deadlines pass. Late applications may not be considered.

Understanding Your Landlord's Obligations

Landlords must follow the rules set by the Residential Tenancies Branch, including notice periods and correct forms. For a full overview of landlord and tenant duties, refer to Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

You can also find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you decide a move is the right choice following any dispute outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions: Rent Increase Disputes in Manitoba

1. Can my landlord increase rent by any amount they choose in Manitoba?
   Most rental units are protected by an annual guideline. Increases above this require RTB approval and can be disputed by tenants.
2. How do I dispute a rent increase that’s above the guideline?
   Use the RTB’s Application for Order (Form RCI-1) within 60 days of receiving notice. Attach your notice and submit to the RTB—there will be a hearing.
3. Do I have to pay the increased rent while waiting for a dispute decision?
   No. Continue paying your current rent until the Residential Tenancies Branch makes a decision.
4. What happens if I miss the dispute deadline?
   If you don’t file within 60 days, you may lose the right to challenge the increase unless extraordinary circumstances apply. Always act promptly.
5. Where can I get more information about tenant and landlord rights in Manitoba?
   Visit the official Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba page for province-specific laws and additional resources.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Manitoba law protects tenants from unfair rent increases through clear guidelines and a dispute process.
• Dispute any above-guideline rent notice by filing the prescribed form with the RTB within 60 days.
• Your rights are protected during the entire process—don’t hesitate to seek extra help if uncertain.

With the right steps and resources, you can confidently respond to a rent increase and ensure your housing remains affordable and fair.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba): Official RTB Website — for forms, guidelines, and support
• Contact Phone: 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg), 1-800-782-8403 (toll-free Manitoba)
• Email: rtb@gov.mb.ca
• Tenant Resource Network (Legal Help): Legal Aid Manitoba – Tenant Resource Network
• More details on rent increases and disputes: Official Government Page: Disputing a Rent Increase

---

1. See Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba
2. Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act
3. Annual rent guideline information and official forms: Guidelines on Rent Increases

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