If your landlord plans to sell the building where you rent, you likely have questions about access, notice, repairs and what happens to your lease. This guide explains common tenant protections in Manitoba, how landlords must handle showings, the paperwork they should provide, and what to do if your rights are affected. It uses plain language for renters and points to the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch and the governing legislation so you can find official forms and ask for help if needed.
What landlords must respect when selling a rental unit
When a landlord is selling a rental property in Manitoba they must continue to meet their obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act and cannot simply end a tenancy because they listed the building for sale. Landlords must:
- Give proper written notice before entering the unit for showings or inspections.
- Respect tenant privacy and arrange viewings at reasonable times.
- Keep the unit in a good state of repair while it is listed for sale.
- Provide any required written notices or forms and follow official notice rules.
- Return any security deposit with interest at the end of tenancy, unless lawful deductions apply.
Entry, showings and notice rules
Landlords must provide written notice before entering for non‑emergency reasons and should schedule showings at reasonable times. If you have a fixed-term lease, the new owner generally takes the lease as-is; a purchaser cannot usually force a tenant to move out before the lease ends solely because they bought the property. If a buyer needs the unit for their own occupancy, there are specific notice rules and timing requirements the landlord must follow under provincial law[1].
Repairs, maintenance and safety while listing
Even during a sale, landlords must keep units safe and fit to live in. Tenants should report repair issues in writing and keep copies of requests and responses. If urgent repairs are ignored, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for an order to have necessary work done or for compensation[1].
What happens to deposits and payments
If the property is sold the new owner normally becomes responsible for the existing tenancy and security deposit. When a tenancy ends, landlords must follow deposit return rules and provide an itemized statement if any deductions are taken. Keep receipts and records so you can contest improper deductions.
When to get help or file a dispute
If you believe your landlord violated notice, entry, repair, or deposit rules, start by:
- Contacting the landlord in writing to explain the issue and request a remedy.
- Gathering evidence: photos, messages, dates of visits and copies of notices.
- Filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch if informal resolution fails.
Related resources and tenant rights pages
For background on each party's responsibilities see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and for regional context refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
FAQ
- Can my landlord show my unit without my permission?
- They must provide proper written notice and can only enter for permitted reasons; consent is required for non‑emergency entries.
- Will a sale cancel my lease?
- No. A purchaser generally inherits the existing lease and must follow the same notice and termination rules.
- What if repairs are ignored while the unit is listed?
- You can document the problem, notify the landlord in writing, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for orders to repair or compensation.
How-To
- Contact the landlord in writing to explain the problem and request a specific remedy or schedule.
- Collect evidence: photos, dated messages, and copies of any notices or entry logs.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch if you cannot resolve the issue informally.
- Attend any hearing or mediation and bring your documentation to support your case.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants keep rights to privacy and proper notice even when a property is for sale.
- Landlords must maintain habitability during the sale process.
- The Residential Tenancies Branch can resolve disputes and issue orders.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch, Province of Manitoba
- Manitoba Government – Housing and Tenant Information
