Illegal Entry: Landmark Ontario Decision and What It Means for Manitoba Tenants

Understanding your rights when it comes to privacy and landlord entry is essential for every tenant in Manitoba. While most rules are set by provincial law, a landmark Ontario case about illegal landlord entry has influenced rental regulations and tenant protections nationwide—including in Manitoba. Here’s how these legal changes affect you, what official steps you can take, and key resources for support.

Why Illegal Entry Cases Matter: Setting National Precedents

When a landlord enters a rental property without proper notice or a legal reason, it’s considered illegal entry. In Ontario, a significant case heard before the Landlord and Tenant Board clarified and strengthened rules around tenant privacy, leading other provinces to review their own laws. For Manitoba tenants, this means there’s growing awareness and enforcement of your right to privacy in your home.

Manitoba's Laws on Landlord Entry

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), landlords must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering your unit, unless it’s an emergency, you give consent, or there’s another clear legal reason (such as showing the property to a new tenant with proper notice)[1]. Notice must state the reason and time for entry. Illegal entries can result in fines or orders by the tribunal, and tenants have the right to complain and seek remedies.

Lessons from Ontario's Precedent: More Accountability for Landlords

Ontario’s leading case prompted tighter scrutiny and clearer penalties for unauthorized landlord entry. Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch is responsible for handling such tenant concerns. If your landlord enters without proper notice or reason, you can formally complain and ask for an order to stop illegal entries—or even request compensation.

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How to Address Illegal Entry in Manitoba: Practical Steps for Tenants

If you suspect your landlord has entered your property illegally, don’t wait—take these important steps:

  • Document the incident: Note the date, time, and details of the unauthorized entry. If possible, gather photos or witness statements.
  • Communicate in writing: Ask your landlord for an explanation and remind them of the required 24-hour notice under Manitoba law.
  • File a complaint: Use the proper form to submit your concern to the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Filing a Complaint: Forms and Process

Manitoba tenants must use the “Application for Orders” (Form 17) when seeking an official decision if their rights have been violated. Here’s how the process works:

  • When to use: If your landlord has entered your rental without lawful reason or required notice, and verbal resolution failed.
  • How it works: Complete Form 17 and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Branch with supporting details (dates, explanation, evidence), in person, by mail, or electronically.
  • What happens next? The Branch will review your case, may hold a hearing, and can order the landlord to stop unlawful entry or award compensation if warranted.

Find the application and full instructions on the official Manitoba Residential Tenancies forms page.[2]

If you’re unsure whether your complaint qualifies, reach out to the Residential Tenancies Branch—staff can explain your options before you submit a form.

Having a clear understanding of your responsibilities can also help strengthen your complaint and avoid misunderstandings. Our Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained page offers more guidance on what both parties must do to follow the law.

Your Rights as a Tenant: Provincial Guidance

If you want to learn more about your rights and what to do if they’re breached, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a comprehensive overview of local rules, privacy, eviction, and complaint processes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What notice does a landlord need to enter my rental unit in Manitoba?
    Landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice except in an emergency or if you consent at the time. The notice must say why and when they are coming.
  2. What can I do if my landlord enters without notice?
    Document the incident, communicate your concerns in writing, and if it happens again, submit an Application for Orders (Form 17) to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
  3. Who handles tenant complaints in Manitoba?
    The Residential Tenancies Branch investigates and resolves tenant-landlord disputes, including illegal entry issues.
  4. Can a landlord enter for repairs without notice?
    No. Even for repairs (unless it's an emergency, such as a burst pipe), they must provide proper notice as required by law.
  5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a Manitoba tenant?
    See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for essential information.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

  • A major Ontario illegal entry case has led to clearer privacy protections for Manitoba tenants.
  • You have the right to 24 hours’ written notice for landlord entry (except emergencies).
  • Use Form 17 to formally address violations through the Residential Tenancies Branch.
  • Know where to access help and strengthen your rental experience through awareness of your rights and responsibilities.

For more tips on maintaining a respectful landlord-tenant relationship, visit our Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained guide.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. See: Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), s. 23–25: Entry to Rental Units
  2. Forms: Manitoba RTB - Tenant Forms and Applications
  3. Oversight: Residential Tenancies Branch official website
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.