Illegal Fees Manitoba Tenants Should Watch For

As a tenant in Manitoba, understanding which fees are legal—and which aren't—is crucial to protecting your finances and rights. Landlords cannot charge just any fee they like. Manitoba law closely regulates what landlords can collect from tenants, especially when it comes to move-in, maintenance, and repair-related costs. In this article, we break down illegal fees to watch for, explain the legal context, and guide you to key steps if your landlord tries charging you unfairly.

Who Regulates Tenant Fees in Manitoba?

Manitoba’s rental housing is overseen by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). The Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba governs what fees landlords can and cannot charge tenants.^[1]

Common Illegal Rental Fees in Manitoba

Landlords must follow strict rules about fees. Here are the types of charges that Manitoba tenants should be on the lookout for:

• Application Fees: Charging a fee just to apply for a rental unit is not allowed.
• Additional Security Deposits: Landlords may collect a security deposit, but only one. Charging extra or "pet deposits" is not legal (unless the pet is not a service animal).
• Non-Refundable Cleaning Fees: Routine cleaning after you move out should not result in a charge, unless you left extraordinary mess or damage.
• Key Deposit Fees (Excessive or Improper): Landlords can only charge a reasonable deposit for keys or access devices. This must be refundable when you return them.
• Automatic Maintenance Fees: Regular maintenance and repairs needed due to normal wear and tear are a landlord's responsibility and cannot be charged as extra fees.
• Utility Admin Fees: It's illegal to charge a handling or admin fee on top of actual utility costs unless clearly written into the lease and allowed by law; even then, there are rules about disclosure.

For a full outline of what’s permitted, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

What Fees ARE Legal?

Landlords can legally charge:

• A single, refundable security deposit (not exceeding half a month's rent)
• Rent (including lawful rent increases only after following proper procedures)
• Fees for lost keys (if the cost is reasonable and documented)

For details on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Should You Do If Charged an Illegal Fee?

If you are asked to pay a prohibited fee, don’t panic—there are clear steps you can follow, and the law is on your side.

1. Politely decline to pay and ask the landlord to cite the relevant law.
2. Document the request: Keep emails, texts, and receipts of any fee demands.
3. Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) for clarification or to file a complaint. The RTB offers a dispute resolution process or investigation if a landlord collects or tries to collect an illegal fee.
4. If needed, fill out the official Application for an Order of Possession or Money (Form 2). This form lets tenants seek an order to recover illegally charged amounts. Access the form and instructions here.

In most cases, prompt action and knowledge of your rights will resolve the issue.

Illegal Maintenance & Repair Charges

Under Manitoba law, landlords cannot make tenants pay extra for ordinary, required maintenance or repairs due to daily living. Only damages caused by negligence or neglect can be billed to a tenant—and only if the landlord follows proper notice steps.

Learn more about this topic in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Always ask for a written notice and cost breakdown if you’re being charged for damages. If you disagree, you can dispute charges through the RTB.

How Tenants Can Dispute Illegal Fees

Tenants have a right to challenge any illegal or unfair charges. You can start by contacting the RTB for advice and, if necessary, formally apply for mediation or an order to recover any amounts you paid by mistake.

A tenant can file a complaint using the Tenant Application Form (Form 2) to seek a refund or prevent future charges. Find the Tenant Application Form here.

Related Responsibilities: What Tenants Need to Know

Understanding the rules on fees is one part of protecting your rights. It's equally important to know your ongoing obligations, such as timely rent payment, avoiding property damage, and reporting issues quickly. For more, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For a wider look at rentals, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for safe, transparent listings.

FAQ: Tenant Questions about Illegal Fees in Manitoba

1. Can my landlord charge an application fee when I apply?
   No, application fees are illegal in Manitoba. Landlords cannot charge you a fee just to consider your rental application.
2. Is it legal to charge a non-refundable cleaning fee?
   Non-refundable cleaning fees are generally not allowed. Cleaning after normal use is a landlord's responsibility; only unusual mess or damage can be charged, and only if proven.
3. What if my landlord asks for a second security deposit?
   Only one security deposit is allowed, up to a maximum of half a month's rent. Any extra deposit is not legal.
4. How do I challenge an illegal fee in Manitoba?
   Gather documentation and contact the RTB. You can use the Tenant Application Form (Form 2) to seek a refund or order.
5. Are admin or convenience fees on utilities permitted?
   No. Additional handling or admin charges on utilities are not allowed unless legally specified and clearly in your lease.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Manitoba can only charge fees allowed by the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Application fees, extra deposits, non-refundable cleaning fees, and unnecessary maintenance charges are not legal.
• If you’re charged an illegal fee, you can file a complaint with the RTB and may reclaim your money.

Staying informed helps ensure a safe and fair renting experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) — For information, dispute resolution, forms, and help: 1-800-782-8403 (Toll-Free Manitoba)
• Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba
• Official Tenant Application Forms
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba — For a summary of tenant and landlord responsibilities
• Manitoba Tenant Advocacy: Winnipeg Tenant Advocate

---

1. Manitoba, Residential Tenancies Act, current as of 2024.
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), Government of Manitoba.
3. Official Tenant Forms | Manitoba Government.

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy