How to Fight a Renoviction in Manitoba: Tenant Rights & Steps

Many Manitoba tenants are worried about renoviction—a type of eviction where a landlord asks tenants to leave due to planned renovations. This guide provides clear steps and legal information on how to respond if you get a renoviction notice, your rights under Manitoba law, and how to challenge an eviction you believe is unfair or unlawful.

What is Renoviction in Manitoba?

Renoviction happens when a landlord asks you to move out because they plan to renovate or repair the rental unit. In Manitoba, landlords must follow strict rules before ending a tenancy for renovations. Not every renovation qualifies as a valid reason for eviction—major repairs or renovations that require the unit to be vacant are necessary.

When Can a Landlord Renovict a Tenant?

• The repairs or renovations are so extensive they legally can’t be done while tenants are living there.
• The landlord issues the proper notice, using approved forms.
• The landlord gives you sufficient notice as set by Manitoba law.

Landlords are not allowed to use minor upgrades or cosmetic changes (like painting or new carpets) as valid reasons for renoviction. If you receive a notice, consider whether the renovations truly require you to leave.

Legal Protections for Manitoba Tenants Facing Renoviction

Residential tenancies in Manitoba are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).¹ The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the government office that handles disputes between landlords and tenants.

Key Tenant Rights

• Written notice is required for eviction due to renovations.
• You have the right to challenge or dispute a notice that you believe is not genuine or made in bad faith.
• Financial compensation may be available if you’re evicted for renovations under certain circumstances.

How to Respond If You Receive a Renoviction Notice

If your landlord gives you a notice to end tenancy for renovations, it must be on the correct form and provide the minimum required notice period. Here’s what to do next:

1. Carefully review the notice and form. Manitoba landlords must use the official Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) “Notice to Terminate Tenancy For Repairs or Renovations” (RTB Form 8). The notice should specify the nature of the repairs and the date you must move out. Access official tenancy forms here.
2. Ask for details in writing about the renovations. Request specifics: the type of work, if permits are required, expected length of the renovation, and why it’s necessary for you to leave.
3. Check if you have the right to return after renovations. In Manitoba, for some tenancies, you may have a right of first refusal to move back in at the new rent. This should be included in the notice.
4. If you disagree with the renoviction, file a complaint. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch to dispute the notice if you believe it’s not valid or that the work can be done while you remain in your home.

For general information on tenant and landlord rights in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy For Repairs or Renovations (RTB Form 8)
  • When to use: Landlords must use this form to give tenants notice for extensive renovations.
  • What tenants should do: Confirm if it’s the correct form and if all sections are complete. If you believe the notice isn’t valid, you must act quickly to file a dispute (within 5 days of receiving the notice).
  • Form link: Manitoba RTB – Tenancy Forms
• Application for Order of Possession (Dispute Resolution)
  • When to use: If you wish to challenge the renoviction notice, file this application with the RTB.
  • How to use: Explain why you believe the eviction is not justified (for example, minor repairs only, or landlord intends to re-rent at a higher price rather than really renovate).
  • Form link: Application for Order of Possession (PDF)

Where to File

All disputes and forms go through the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Your Options If You’re Facing Renoviction

Don’t feel pressured to leave before you’ve considered your legal options. Manitoba gives you the right to challenge renoviction if the notice is not genuine or the work doesn’t require your unit to be completely vacant.

• Ask the landlord for more documentation, including building permits or a work schedule.
• Consider mediation with the help of the RTB—sometimes issues can be resolved without a hearing.
• If you accept the notice, get details about possible compensation and your right to return post-renovation.
• If you’re moving out, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Sometimes other rental issues, like sudden Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know, can occur alongside claims of renoviction. Stay informed and assert your rights as a tenant.

How to Challenge a Renoviction in Manitoba: Step-by-Step

Here’s how to dispute a renoviction legally in Manitoba:

1. Receive the landlord’s written notice (RTB Form 8).
2. Act fast: You have 5 days to file a dispute if you want to challenge the renoviction.
3. Download and fill out the Application for Order of Possession from the RTB website.
4. Submit your application to the RTB by email, mail, fax, or in person along with supporting documents (copies of the notice, correspondence, proof that work may not require vacancy, etc.).
5. Attend the RTB hearing or mediation session. Present your case, including any evidence showing renovations could be done with you still in the home or that the landlord’s intentions may not be legitimate.

Protecting Your Housing Search After Renoviction

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FAQ: Manitoba Renoviction & Tenant Rights

1. How much notice must a landlord give for a renoviction in Manitoba? The landlord must provide two months’ written notice using the official RTB form for renovations that legally require vacancy.
2. Can I challenge a renoviction notice? Yes. You have five days from receiving the notice to file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
3. What if my landlord starts renovations without a permit? Notify the RTB. Renovations requiring permits but started without one may not justify eviction and could put your rights at risk.
4. Am I entitled to compensation if I’m renovicted? In some cases, you may be eligible for compensation. Check your notice and ask the RTB for guidance.
5. Do I have the right to move back in after renovations? Sometimes. Manitoba law offers a right of first refusal for returning tenants in certain circumstances, which should be stated in your notice.

Key Takeaways

• Always require written notice on the correct form for any renoviction.
• You have the right to dispute a notice, but must act within five days.
• The Residential Tenancies Branch protects tenant rights and mediates disputes.

Staying proactive and informed helps you protect your home and your future housing security.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba – File disputes, access forms, and request mediation support.
• For free tenant information and guidance, contact the RTB regional offices or call 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg) or 1-800-782-8403 (Toll-Free in Manitoba).
• Read more about your rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act: Current text
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Official website

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