Tenants in Manitoba often face questions when landlords start renovations that affect living conditions, access, or rent. This guide explains what renters should expect, the required notice and entry rules landlords must follow, how health and safety must be maintained, and when tenants can seek compensation or make applications to the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch. It also explains practical steps for documenting problems, communicating with landlords, and filing a formal complaint if needed. Written for renters, the language here avoids legal jargon and focuses on clear actions tenants can take to protect their rights and health while renovations are underway in Manitoba rental homes.
What landlords must do before and during renovations
Landlords must follow the Residential Tenancies Act and the rules set by the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch when planning work that affects a rental unit. They generally must give proper written notice, limit entry to reasonable hours, and keep the rental in a habitable condition. If the work will make the unit unsafe or uninhabitable, landlords should provide temporary accommodation or compensation in some cases. For help contacting the Branch, see the official resources below.[1]
Common landlord duties
- Give written notice with the work description and timing before entry or disruption.
- Ensure repairs and construction do not create hazards (mold, plumbing, heating).
- Follow safety and building codes while carrying out renovations.
- Offer compensation or alternative housing when the unit is uninhabitable for a period.
Tenant rights and practical steps during renovations
Tenants have rights to reasonable notice of entry, privacy, and a safe, livable unit. If work interferes with your ability to live in the unit—loss of heat, water, or serious safety risks—you can document the problem, ask for temporary accommodation or rent abatement, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution if necessary.[2]
What you should do immediately
- Take dated photos and keep written notes of disturbances, safety issues, and any conversations with the landlord.
- Request written notice from the landlord about the work, timeline, and expected disruptions.
- Contact your landlord first to try to resolve scheduling or safety concerns directly.
When to apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch
Use the Branch if your landlord refuses reasonable accommodation, fails to provide required notice, or the unit becomes unsafe and the landlord does not act. The Branch accepts applications to resolve disputes about repairs, entry, rent adjustments, and compensation; see the official forms and guidance for how to file an application and what evidence to include.[3]
FAQ
- Can my landlord enter my unit to do renovations without notice?
- No. Landlords must provide reasonable written notice before entry for renovations except in genuine emergencies; check provincial rules and the Residential Tenancies Branch guidance.
- Am I entitled to compensation if renovations make my unit uninhabitable?
- Possibly. If the work forces you to vacate or significantly reduces habitability, you can request temporary accommodation or a rent reduction and apply to the Branch if you cannot agree with the landlord.
- How do I document and report dangerous conditions during renovations?
- Keep dated photos, written notes, copies of notices, and any receipts for expenses. Contact the landlord in writing, and if unresolved, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
How-To
- Write to your landlord within 7 days of the first issue detailing the problem and requesting a fix or mitigation.
- Collect dated photos and a short log of disruptions as evidence to support your case.
- Call or email the landlord to try to agree on temporary accommodation or a rent reduction.
- Complete and submit the appropriate application form to the Residential Tenancies Branch if you cannot resolve the issue.
- Attend any scheduled dispute hearings and bring copies of all documents and photos you collected.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch - Contact and services
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) - Legislation
For tenant help beyond legislation and the Branch, you can also search for available rentals or new housing options to reduce disruption: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
