Landlord Entry Rules for Tenants in Manitoba

Knowing your rights around landlord entry is essential for tenants in Manitoba. While landlords do have the right to access their property, the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) sets clear rules to protect your privacy and safety. Understanding these rules can help you respond confidently if your landlord wants to enter your home.

Who Oversees Rental Law in Manitoba?

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the provincial authority responsible for rental laws and disputes. Learn more, access guides, and get forms from the official Residential Tenancies Branch.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

Landlords can't enter your unit whenever they want. Manitoba law protects your right to privacy by requiring landlords to follow specific rules and provide proper notice in most situations.

Landlord Entry with Notice

In most cases, your landlord must give you written notice before entering. The rules are:

• Minimum 24 Hours' Written Notice – For most reasons, including repairs, inspections, showing the unit to new tenants or purchasers, or other reasonable purposes.
• Entry must occur only between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., unless you agree to another time.
• The notice must state the date, purpose, and expected time frame for the entry.

For more on landlord and tenant rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Landlord Entry Without Notice

There are only a few situations where your landlord can enter without advance notice:

• Emergency: If there is an urgent issue, like a fire, flood, or safety concern requiring immediate attention.
• By Your Agreement: If you say yes at the time your landlord asks, they do not need to provide notice.
• If You Abandon the Unit: If the landlord reasonably believes you have moved out for good.

Special Situations and Other Allowed Entry

• Showing to Prospective Buyers or Tenants: The landlord must provide you with reasonable notice and only enter between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
• Routine Repairs or Maintenance: The law requires written notice, but if you report a repair need, you may be able to agree on a sooner time.
• Move-Out Inspections: Entry for inspections (before new tenancy or move-out) generally requires proper notice and your opportunity to be present.

If you have concerns about repairs and entry, see our page on Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

What Should Notice Look Like?

Your landlord's written notice should include:

• Date and time (or time window) of entry
• Purpose of entry (e.g., repairs, inspection)
• Their contact details

What If a Landlord Breaks These Rules?

If your landlord enters without proper notice or at unreasonable times, you have options. You can:

• Talk directly to your landlord about the issue and document it
• Write a complaint to your landlord, asking them to comply with the law
• File a formal complaint or application with the RTB

If you feel unsafe or your property is at risk, contact local authorities like police as needed.

Relevant Forms for Manitoba Tenants

• Tenant's Application for Non-Emergency Issues (Form RTB-1): Use this to apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch if your landlord repeatedly enters without lawful reason or notice. Download the official RTB forms here.
  Example: If your landlord lets themselves into your unit without notice multiple times, fill out Form RTB-1 and submit it to the RTB with details and evidence (such as time-stamped photos or witness statements).

What Does Manitoba Law Say?

All rules about landlord entry are found in the Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba (Sections 19 and 92). It outlines your right to privacy and when landlords may lawfully access the rental unit.¹

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does a landlord always need to give 24 hours' notice before entering?
   No, not always. Notice is required in most cases, but not in emergencies or if you give permission at the time.
2. Can my landlord enter when I'm not home?
   Yes, if they gave you proper written notice and enter between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., it is allowed even if you are out.
3. What if my landlord is entering too often?
   If you believe the entry is unreasonable or harassing, document each incident and consider talking to your landlord. If the problem continues, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
4. Am I allowed to refuse entry?
   You cannot refuse reasonable access under the law, but your landlord must follow proper notice rules and enter only for valid reasons.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord keeps breaking the entry rules?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for advice, or consider tenant advocacy services for guidance and support.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours' written notice for most entries
• Entry is only legal between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. unless you allow another time
• You can take action or apply to the RTB if your rights are violated

Always know your rights and communicate with your landlord in writing whenever possible. For more, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Easily find affordable homes for rent in Canada and understand tenant responsibilities before signing your next lease.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) – Official information, forms, and dispute resolution
• RTB Phone: 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg); toll-free 1-800-782-8403
• Tenant advocacy: Contact organizations like the Legal Aid Manitoba if you need legal support
• For a summary of rights, see the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba fact page

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), Sections 19, 92: Read the legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Official government website

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