Landlord Entry and Key Use Rules for Tenants in Manitoba

Many tenants in Manitoba wonder if their landlord can use their key to enter their home without permission. Understanding your privacy rights and your landlord's legal obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) is essential. This article explains when a landlord may enter using their master key, what notice is required, and what steps you can take if your privacy is breached.

Your Right to Privacy as a Manitoba Tenant

As a tenant, your rental unit is your private space. The Residential Tenancies Branch enforces strict rules to protect tenants from unlawful entry by landlords. Except in a few specific circumstances, landlords cannot enter your unit or use their key to gain access without your knowledge and consent.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental Unit?

Manitoba law outlines when and how a landlord is allowed to enter a rental unit, and these rules apply even if the landlord has a key:

• With Proper Notice: Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering for non-emergency reasons, such as repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers. The notice must state the reason, date, and time of entry (which must be between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.).
• Emergencies: In true emergencies (such as fire, flooding, or other urgent situations threatening health/security), a landlord may enter your unit immediately without notice if necessary.
• If You Consent: If you agree in advance to your landlord entering (verbally or in writing), they can do so at the agreed-upon time.
• Abandonment: If it appears you have abandoned your unit, the landlord may enter to verify.

It is illegal for a landlord to enter your home using their key without proper notice or outside these circumstances.

Notice Requirements in Manitoba

Written notice must include the date, time, and purpose of entry. Notices can be delivered in person or by posting on your door. Entry for regular maintenance should still respect the 24-hour notice rule and appropriate hours of entry.

What Should You Do if Your Landlord Uses Their Key Without Permission?

If your landlord enters without notice or uses their key improperly, you can take the following steps:

• Talk to your landlord and remind them of the Manitoba entry rules.
• Document each incident with dates, times, and details. Take photos of notices or signs.
• File a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba) if the behaviour continues.

Relevant Official Forms

• Tenant's Application for an Order (Form RTB-9): Use this form if you need the Residential Tenancies Branch to resolve a dispute about illegal entry or privacy violation.
  Download from Manitoba RTB.
  Example: If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice, you can submit this form to formally request a hearing or order.
• Notice to Enter (Form RTB-5): Landlords may use this official template to provide written notice of entry. Tenants should look for this format.
  See official Manitoba RTB forms.

Exceptions to Entry Rules and Emergencies

It’s important to know what counts as an emergency. Emergencies include events like water leaks, fire, or any safety threat inside the unit. In these urgent cases, landlords can enter immediately, but must notify the tenant as soon as possible after entry. For recurring problems like pests, health and safety concerns, or urgent repairs, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Your Privacy and Rental Agreement

Your lease or rental agreement cannot override your basic legal rights under the Act. That means a clause allowing unrestricted landlord entry or use of a key is not enforceable—your rights are always protected by law. For more on your rights after moving in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For a broader summary of rights in Manitoba, including privacy, entry, rent increases, and maintenance, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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FAQ: Landlord Key Use and Entry in Manitoba

1. Can my landlord come into my rental with their key while I am not home?
   Only if they have given you at least 24 hours’ written notice, or there is an emergency.
2. What should I do if my landlord enters without permission?
   Document the incident and contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for advice or to file a formal complaint.
3. Is my landlord allowed to enter for repairs when I’m away?
   Yes, as long as they provided proper notice (at least 24 hours) and only enter between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
4. Can a landlord give notice by just calling or texting?
   No; notice must be in writing (letter, email, or posted notice on your door).
5. Where can I find official Manitoba forms to file a privacy complaint?
   You can access forms on the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch website.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords in Manitoba need to give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit—except in emergencies.
• Your rental agreement cannot take away your privacy rights.
• If your landlord misuses their key, document everything and get help from the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Knowing your rights helps ensure your home remains your private space, so you can feel safe and secure.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – For tenant complaints, forms, and advice: 1-800-782-8403
• Manitoba Tenant Resources – Official guides and contacts
• Local legal clinics and tenant advocacy groups in Manitoba

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), Part 2, Division 3 – rules for landlord's entry
2. Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba – official board for rental disputes and information
3. Manitoba RTB Forms and Resources – download tenant/Landlord forms

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