How to File Evidence for an LTB Hearing in Manitoba

If you're a tenant in Manitoba facing a Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) hearing, knowing how to gather and submit your evidence is key to making your case. Whether it's about rent increases, repairs, eviction, or other tenancy issues, filing the right evidence on time gives you the best possible chance of success under Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act.^[1] This easy-to-follow guide explains what evidence is, how to prepare it, and exactly how to file it for your RTB hearing in 2024.

Understanding the Hearing Process in Manitoba

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) manages rental disputes for both tenants and landlords in Manitoba. When disagreements can’t be solved directly, either party can apply for a hearing—this is where evidence comes in.

What Counts as Evidence?

Evidence helps the RTB officer understand what happened. Examples of evidence include:

• Tenancy agreements (leases)
• Receipts, invoices, or rent payment records
• Photos or videos of repairs, damages, or maintenance issues
• Written communication (letters, emails, texts)
• Inspection reports
• Witness statements (with names and contact information)

All evidence should be clear, well-organized, and relevant to your case. For common rent or repair disputes, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more insight before preparing your evidence.

How to File Evidence for Your RTB Hearing

Once your hearing is scheduled, you’ll get a notice with the date and time. The RTB requires you to submit all your evidence by a deadline—usually at least 5 days before the hearing date.

Step-by-Step: Filing Evidence for an RTB Hearing

• Step 1: Collect and Organize
  Gather all documents, photos, receipts, communications, and anything else that supports your position. Make sure everything is legible and in order.
• Step 2: Complete the Required Form
  Use the RTB Evidence Submission Cover Sheet (Form RTB-12). This form must be attached to your evidence. Example: If you’re disputing a security deposit deduction, include your lease, move-in and move-out inspection reports, and communication with your landlord.
• Step 3: Make Copies
  Prepare one copy for yourself, one for the RTB, and (if directed) one for the other party (your landlord or tenant).
• Step 4: Submit Your Evidence to the RTB
  You can submit by:
• Emailing your evidence (with the cover sheet) to [email protected]
• Delivering in person to an RTB office
• Sending by regular mail (be sure it arrives before the deadline)
• Step 5: Keep Proof of Submission
  Save sent emails, get a stamped receipt from the office, or use a courier with tracking.
• Step 6: Serve the Other Party
  The RTB will advise whether you also need to provide copies to your landlord. Always follow any instructions provided in your hearing notice.

Practical Example: Filing for a Maintenance Dispute

Suppose you’re filing evidence over an unresolved repair. Your package might include:

• Photos showing the repair problem
• Copies of every repair request sent to the landlord
• Receipts for any repairs you paid for
• A copy of your lease
• Completed RTB-12 Cover Sheet

Deadlines: Don’t Miss Your Submission Window

Tight timelines apply in Manitoba. Evidence received late could be refused, so watch the submission instructions in your hearing notice closely. If you have difficulties submitting by the deadline, contact the RTB immediately for guidance.

Official Forms Used for Filing Evidence

• Evidence Submission Cover Sheet (Form RTB-12)
  Download from the official Manitoba RTB website
• When and How Used: Attach to any set of evidence you file for a hearing. Example: You're disputing withheld rent; fill out RTB-12, attach relevant bank statements and correspondence.
• Application Forms (e.g., Tenant Application Form RTB-1)
  Get the latest RTB Forms here
• When and How Used: Start a dispute or respond to an application. Example: You apply for an order to compel repairs using the Tenant Application Form, then file evidence supporting your claim.

Preparing for the Hearing Day

The RTB hearing can be in-person, by phone, or video. You can refer to all the evidence you filed—make sure your copies are organized and easy to reference. Listen carefully, answer questions, and refer to your evidence as needed.

If your dispute involves your landlord’s rights or responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for additional background.

Legislation Overview

The rules are governed by Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act. This law sets out the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords, including the hearing process and evidence requirements.

For a full overview of tenant and landlord regulations in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings if you’re planning to move or need a new place after the hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What kind of evidence is most helpful for an RTB hearing?
   Clear, well-organized documents directly related to your dispute—such as photos, written communications, and official forms—are most effective.
2. Can I file evidence after the submission deadline?
   Usually, late evidence will only be accepted if both parties agree or you have a strong, documented reason. Contact the RTB immediately if you need an exception.
3. Do I need to serve the landlord with all evidence I submit?
   The RTB will tell you if you’re required to serve evidence on the other party; always follow the instructions in your hearing notice.
4. Is there a fee for submitting evidence?
   Filing evidence itself is usually free, but there is a fee for filing certain applications. Check the RTB website for current fee schedules.
5. What happens if I forget to bring evidence to the hearing?
   If evidence was not submitted by the deadline, it may not be considered. Always confirm with the RTB in advance if you have last-minute documents.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always gather and submit your evidence well before your hearing date.
• Use the RTB Evidence Submission Cover Sheet and check all deadlines closely.
• Preparing clear, organized evidence can greatly impact the outcome of your tenancy dispute.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Official government help for tenants and landlords, or email [email protected] or call 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg) or 1-800-782-8403 (toll-free in Manitoba).
• Legal Help Centre Winnipeg: Free legal support for tenants
• Manitoba Tenant Rights Information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

1. Government of Manitoba, Residential Tenancies Act (2024)
2. Government of Manitoba, Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) (2024)
3. Government of Manitoba, RTB Forms Portal (2024)