As a tenant in Manitoba, you have clear rights when a landlord wants to enter your rental unit. This guide explains how 24-hour written notice works for routine inspections, repairs and viewings, what counts as an emergency, and how to document or respond to an entry that feels improper. If you need to escalate a problem, you can contact the province's Residential Tenancies Branch for advice or file a complaint.[1] The relevant law is the Residential Tenancies Act for Manitoba, which sets notice and timing rules for non-emergency entry.[2]
What the law in Manitoba says
In Manitoba, landlords generally must give tenants reasonable written notice—commonly 24 hours—before entering a unit for inspections, repairs, or to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers. Entry without notice is allowed only in emergencies, where immediate access is required to protect life or property. If you need forms or step-by-step guidance to resolve a dispute about entry, the Residential Tenancies Branch maintains official guidance and forms.[1]
When a landlord can enter
- To make agreed repairs, maintenance, or safety inspections.
- To show the unit to prospective new tenants or buyers with proper notice.
- To carry out an agreed service appointment (e.g., utility access).
- In emergencies where immediate entry is necessary to prevent harm or damage (no notice required).
How notice must be given
Notice should be clear, written, and include the reason, date and a reasonable time window for entry. Verbal notice alone can cause disputes; always ask for written confirmation if a landlord calls or texts. Keep copies of any messages and take photos of written notices or receipts of delivery to protect your record.
- Give at least 24 hours' written notice for routine entry when required by the landlord or tenancy rules.
- The notice should state the reason for entry and a reasonable time window.
- Keep records of all notices, calls, photos and receipts as evidence.
Tenant rights during entry
Tenants can expect reasonable privacy and quiet enjoyment of their home. Landlords should enter at reasonable times, avoid excessive or repeated inspections, and not abuse entry rights to disturb or harass tenants. If you believe entry is retaliatory or frequent without cause, you can document the behavior and ask for help from the Residential Tenancies Branch.[1]
What to do if a landlord does not follow the rules
If a landlord enters without proper notice or outside reasonable hours, take calm, factual steps to protect your rights and build your case.
- Document the incident: write the date, time, who entered and why, and take photos if safe to do so.
- Contact your landlord in writing asking for an explanation and requesting adherence to notice rules.
- If informal steps fail, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch or use the official dispute form to start a resolution process.[3]
- For ongoing or threatening behavior, contact local emergency services or seek legal advice immediately.
Common notice scenarios and examples
- A landlord gives 24 hours' written notice to inspect for mold—acceptable when the reason and time are clear.
- A landlord calls and says they will stop by in an hour without written confirmation—ask for a written message and record it.
- There is a burst pipe—landlord or tradespeople can enter immediately to stop damage (emergency).
FAQ
- Do landlords always need 24 hours' notice to enter?
- No. For routine inspections and repairs they generally must give at least 24 hours' written notice, but in emergencies they may enter immediately without notice.
- What counts as an acceptable written notice?
- A clear message that states the reason, date and a reasonable time window is acceptable; keep a copy for your records.
- Can I refuse entry if I don't get 24 hours' notice?
- Yes, you can refuse non-emergency entry if proper notice was not given, but remain polite and offer to reschedule so you do not escalate conflict.
- Where can I get official help if a landlord violates entry rules?
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for Manitoba to report the issue or start a dispute resolution process.[1]
How-To
- Confirm the notice: read and save the landlord's written notice and note the proposed time and reason.
- Document the visit: write the date/time, who came, and take photos of any damage or issues.
- Contact the landlord in writing if the notice is missing or unclear and request a corrected written notice.
- If the landlord does not follow the rules, file a complaint or application with the Residential Tenancies Branch using their official forms.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Landlords usually must give at least 24 hours' written notice for non-emergency entry.
- Always document notices and visits to protect your rights.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Branch and official forms to resolve disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch - Manitoba
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- RTB forms and guides - Manitoba
- [1] Residential Tenancies Branch - Manitoba
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- [3] RTB forms and guides - Manitoba
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