Illegal Landlord Entry in Manitoba: Tenant Rights, Penalties & Remedies

As a renter in Manitoba, knowing your privacy rights is essential—especially if you suspect your landlord is entering your home without proper notice or valid reason. Illegal entry is a serious breach of tenant rights, and Manitoba law provides clear rules and remedies to protect you. This guide explains what counts as illegal entry, your options, and what penalties landlords can face under provincial law.

When Can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit in Manitoba?

Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act sets strict rules on landlord entry. In most cases, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit and can only enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The written notice must state the reason for entry, the date, and the time or timeframe.

Permitted Reasons for Entry

• To perform repairs or show the unit to potential renters or buyers
• To inspect the rental as outlined in your agreement
• In case of emergency (fire, flood, etc.)—no notice is required for immediate threats
• With your written or verbal consent at the time of entry

Any landlord entry that doesn’t meet these legal requirements may be considered illegal.

What Is Illegal Entry? Examples and Tenant Rights

Illegal entry happens when a landlord enters your unit without following the law. Common examples include:

• Showing up without any notice or short notice
• Entering for non-urgent reasons outside allowed hours
• Coming in frequently or harassing tenants by repeated visits
• Using a spare key to enter without your knowledge (unless there’s an emergency)

If you experience illegal entry, it is not only a violation of your privacy, but also your rights as a tenant. You should:

• Document the incident (dates, times, what happened)
• Communicate concerns in writing to your landlord
• Contact Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch if it continues

Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a broader understanding of your protections.

Tribunal, Complaints & Official Forms

All tenancy disputes—including illegal entry—are handled by the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba. If communication with your landlord fails, you can file a formal complaint and request remedies.

How to File a Complaint: Step-by-Step

• Step 1: Gather evidence (notes, dates, photos, witness statements)
• Step 2: Reach out to your landlord in writing to resolve the problem
• Step 3: If the issue continues, fill out the "Application for Order of Possession and/or Request for an Order for Enforcement of Tenant's Rights" (RTB Form 2)
• Step 4: Submit the form to the Residential Tenancies Branch by mail, email, or in person
• Step 5: Attend the hearing and present your evidence

Form name: Application for Order of Possession and/or Request for an Order for Enforcement of Tenant's Rights (RTB Form 2).

How it works: Use RTB Form 2 if your landlord keeps entering illegally or won’t stop after a written complaint. For example, if a landlord repeatedly enters without notice, a tenant can submit this form to the Branch to seek an official order prohibiting the behaviour and request compensation. Download the official form here.

Penalties: What Happens If a Landlord Enters Illegally?

If the Residential Tenancies Branch finds the landlord violated entry rights, they can order the landlord to:

• Stop entering illegally
• Pay compensation for disruption or stress
• Pay administrative penalties (up to $500 per contravention, per Section 192 of the Residential Tenancies Act)

The Branch can also grant you the right to terminate your lease early if your privacy is repeatedly violated.

If you’re facing additional issues after your lease is signed—such as maintenance, repairs, or other rights and responsibilities—see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for more details.

How to Protect Yourself: Practical Advice

• Keep a detailed record of entry incidents, including details and any witnesses
• Communicate in writing with your landlord
• Do not block emergency access, but stand firm on notice requirements
• Contact the Branch for guidance or mediation

For even more detail on legal rights and obligations in rental relationships, check out Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you’re considering moving, or want to view more options, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for a safe, privacy-respecting rental experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Illegal Entry in Manitoba

1. How much notice does my landlord have to give before entering?
   Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice for entry, stating the date, time frame, and reason. Entry can only occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. unless it’s an emergency.
2. Can my landlord enter without my permission for routine repairs?
   No, routine repairs require proper notice. Only emergencies allow for immediate entry without your consent.
3. What should I do if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
   Document the incidents, communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing, and, if it continues, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch using RTB Form 2.
4. Is my landlord allowed to use a spare key to enter if I’m not home?
   Only after providing the required notice. Using a key to enter without notice or consent is considered illegal except in emergencies.
5. Can I end my lease early because of repeated illegal entries?
   In some cases, yes. If a landlord’s actions make the rental unlivable or violate your privacy rights, the Branch may allow you to end your tenancy early.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Information, complaints, and resources (1-800-782-8403)
• RTB Form 2: Application for Enforcement of Tenant’s Rights
• Legal Help Centre of Winnipeg – Free legal information (https://www.legalhelpcentre.ca)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (CCSM c. R119)
2. Landlord Entry Rules – Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch
3. RTB Form 2 – Enforcement of Tenant Rights Application

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