If you are a tenant in Manitoba and you can t attend your scheduled RTB hearing, you may be able to request an adjournment. This guide explains when an adjournment is reasonable, how to contact the Residential Tenancies Branch, what evidence to provide, and practical steps to protect your rights as a renter. It uses plain language so you can understand timelines, official forms, and realistic examples of when the Board will consider a delay. If you need help preparing, read the steps below and follow the checklist to submit a clear, timely request.
What is an adjournment at the RTB?
An adjournment pauses or reschedules a scheduled Residential Tenancies Branch hearing so a party can prepare, gather evidence, or attend. The RTB oversees residential tenancy disputes in Manitoba and handles applications and hearings for matters like evictions, rent arrears, or repair orders[1].
When you can ask for an adjournment
- You or your witness have a legitimate scheduling conflict or serious illness.
- You need more time to obtain essential documents or evidence supporting your case.
- You were not properly served the hearing notice and did not receive adequate time to respond.
- There is active settlement negotiation and both parties ask for a short delay to finalize an agreement.
How to make your adjournment request
Requests are best made in writing and as early as possible. Include clear reasons, relevant dates, and any supporting documents. If a specific RTB form is listed for requests, use it; otherwise, send an email or letter to the RTB office handling your file and copy the other party if the Board requires it. Keep a copy of everything you send and note the date and time you submitted the request. You can also call the RTB to confirm receipt and next steps.
What to include in your written request
- A short explanation of why you need an adjournment and the dates affected.
- Copies of supporting documents such as medical notes, travel itineraries, or proof of attempts to obtain evidence.
- A proposal for new dates when you and your witnesses are available.
- Contact information and a statement confirming whether you have advised the other party.
What the RTB will consider
- How early the request was made relative to the hearing date.
- Whether the reason is verifiable and whether you provided supporting evidence.
- The impact on the other party and whether a short delay is reasonable.
- Past conduct, such as repeated late requests without valid reasons.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I ask for an adjournment the day of the hearing?
- Yes, but last-minute requests are less likely to be granted unless there is an emergency or sudden illness. Provide evidence where possible.
- Do I need a lawyer to request an adjournment?
- No. Tenants can request adjournments themselves by writing to the RTB and providing supporting documentation; a lawyer may help but is not required.
- What happens if my adjournment request is denied and I miss the hearing?
- If you miss the hearing without an approved adjournment, the RTB may proceed in your absence and issue an order based on available evidence.
How-To
- Check the hearing notice for date, time, and any deadlines and note whether the RTB provided instructions for adjournment requests.
- Draft a concise written request explaining why you need an adjournment and attach supporting documents (medical note, travel proof, or evidence delay).
- Send the request immediately to the RTB office handling your file and copy the other party if the Board s practice expects it; keep a dated copy.
- Follow up by phone or email to confirm receipt and note any directions. If the Board grants an adjournment, get the new date in writing.
- If denied, consider attending the hearing by phone/video if available, or ask for a short in-person appearance to explain your circumstances.
Key Takeaways
- Request an adjournment as early as possible and provide evidence.
- Send your request in writing and keep dated copies of all communications.
- Confirm any new hearing date in writing if the RTB approves the adjournment.
