How to File a Retaliation Complaint as a Tenant in Manitoba

Retaliation by a landlord—such as increasing rent, reducing services, or issuing a notice to end your tenancy because you asserted your tenant rights—is not allowed in Manitoba. If you believe your landlord has taken negative actions against you after you made a legitimate complaint or asked for repairs, it's important to know how to protect yourself and resolve the situation.

Understanding Retaliatory Action in Manitoba Rentals

In Manitoba, the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) sets rules for both tenants and landlords. Retaliation occurs when a landlord penalizes a tenant for exercising their legal rights. Common examples include notice of eviction given soon after requests for repairs, or rent increases issued after you raise concerns about maintenance.

• Requesting a repair or maintenance
• Reporting a health or safety issue or code violation
• Filing a complaint to Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch
• Joining or forming a tenant organization

If your landlord responds to any of these activities with negative actions against you, this may be considered retaliation.

Your Rights and Manitoba Law

Section 36.1 of the Residential Tenancies Act prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who assert their rights. Tenants can make legitimate complaints or request repairs without the fear of eviction, service reduction, or rent increases made in response.

How to File a Retaliation Complaint in Manitoba

If you suspect retaliation, documenting your interactions and formally filing a complaint can help resolve the issue. Manitoba's official body for landlord–tenant disputes is the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). They investigate claims and can make binding decisions.

Key Steps to Take

• Document everything: Keep copies of all communications with your landlord and note dates when events occurred.
• Complete the official complaint form: Use the "Tenant Complaint to the Branch" (RTB Form 2) to start the process.
• Submit supporting materials: Attach emails, letters, and any other evidence.
• Submit the form: Deliver your complaint to the nearest RTB office or email as instructed on the form.

Official Form: Tenant Complaint to the Branch (RTB Form 2)

• Name: Tenant Complaint to the Branch
• Form Number: RTB Form 2
• When to Use: If you believe your landlord took retaliatory action after you filed a complaint, requested a repair, or exercised other legal tenant rights.
• How to Use: For example, if you asked for a vital repair and soon after received a notice to end your tenancy, fill out this form and provide the sequence of events, plus supporting documents.
• Get the form here: Tenant Complaint to the Branch (RTB Form 2)

What Happens Next?

The Residential Tenancies Branch will review your complaint and may mediate the issue or set up a hearing. An officer can issue legally binding orders to stop retaliatory actions. For more insight on broader tenant–landlord rights and how disputes are handled, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Examples of Retaliation and Other Tenant Issues

Retaliation can sometimes be confused with other landlord–tenant disagreements. Common tenant complaints might include sudden rent increases, reduced services, or delayed repairs. Understanding the difference helps you know which action to take. For more on these issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

It's also important to know your general rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Manitoba law covers health and safety obligations, rent payment, repairs, and how to respond to landlord notices. Find more guidance in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Where to Find Rentals and Tenancy Support

If you need to find a new home due to ongoing issues or retaliation, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—a reliable resource for apartments and houses nationwide.

FAQ: Filing a Retaliation Complaint in Manitoba Rentals

1. What is considered landlord retaliation in Manitoba?
   Retaliation is when a landlord takes negative action—like eviction, rent increases, or service reduction—because a tenant exercised their legal rights, such as filing a complaint or requesting a necessary repair.
2. How do I prove retaliation by my landlord?
   Keep a detailed record of your requests, complaints, and all responses from your landlord, including dates and communications. This documentation supports your claim when filing a complaint.
3. Where do I file a complaint if I experience retaliation?
   Submit your complaint to the Residential Tenancies Branch using the official form. The Branch will review, mediate, or hold a hearing if needed.
4. Can my landlord evict me while my complaint is being processed?
   Landlords cannot evict tenants as a form of retaliation, and the Branch can void such eviction notices if found to be retaliatory. Always act quickly and seek help if you receive an eviction notice after a dispute.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Manitoba law protects tenants from landlord retaliation
• Act quickly, collect documentation, and use official forms for complaints
• The Residential Tenancies Branch is your main place for dispute resolution

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) – Phone: 204-945-2476 or 1-800-782-8403
• Tenant Complaint to the Branch (RTB Form 2)
• Legal Aid Manitoba – legalaid.mb.ca
• For general guidance on rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): Read the full legislation
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Official government page
3. Tenant Complaint to the Branch (RTB Form 2): Download here

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