Landlord Entry: Tenant Consent and Access Rights in Manitoba

As a tenant in Manitoba, knowing when your landlord can legally enter your rental unit is essential to protecting your privacy and avoiding disputes. This guide explains landlord access requirements, tenant consent, and what to do if your rights are not respected—so you can feel secure in your rental home.

Understanding Landlord Access in Manitoba

Landlords in Manitoba must follow strict rules when entering a tenant’s unit. These rules are designed to balance a landlord’s need to maintain or inspect the property with your right to privacy and quiet enjoyment.

• Landlords typically require your consent or must provide written notice before entry.
• There are exceptions where immediate entry is allowed, such as during emergencies.

All rules about access are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba (Residential Tenancies Act – Manitoba).

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

• With 24-Hour Written Notice: For repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers. Notice must state the reason, date, and time that falls between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
• With Tenant Consent: If you agree, a landlord can enter at any mutually convenient time. Verbal or written consent is acceptable.
• Without Notice: Only in emergencies (e.g., fire, flood, medical emergencies, or urgent repairs that cannot wait).

Summary: In most situations, your landlord cannot enter without proper advance notice or your consent.

Typical Reasons for Landlord Entry

• Carrying out repairs or maintenance
• Inspecting the property for damage or improvements
• Showing the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or real estate agents
• Checking that you have complied with your obligations, like not causing excessive damage (Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained)

Special Note: Routine Inspections and Repairs

If your landlord needs to make regular maintenance checks or repairs, they must still provide at least 24 hours' written notice each time—unless you agree to another arrangement. For details on who is responsible for certain repairs, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

How to Respond to Improper Entry or Disputes

If your landlord enters your unit without proper notice or consent and it's not an emergency, this could be considered a breach of your rights under Manitoba tenancy law.

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the official government body handling disputes, complaints, and applications related to rental housing in Manitoba.

How to File a Complaint or Application

• Fill out the appropriate RTB form, such as the "Tenant’s Application for Orders" (Form 5).
• Submit the form in person, by mail, or electronically via the RTB website.
• Include as much evidence as possible—such as written notes, emails, or witness information.

Example: If your landlord enters your home repeatedly without notice, complete the Tenant’s Application for Orders (Form 5) to seek an order or compensation for any harm done to your privacy.

Relevant Forms and Where to Find Them

• Tenant’s Application for Orders (Form 5): Used to ask the RTB for an order regarding landlord entry or other matters. Official RTB Form 5
• Notice to Enter: Your landlord must provide this (either in writing, paper, or electronic format with all required details).

What Manitoba Law Says About Entry

The rules described are explained in detail in the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) (see sections 21–23).

Your Rights, Privacy, and Best Practices

• Your landlord must respect your right to quiet enjoyment and privacy in your home.
• You do not have to allow entry unless advance notice is provided or there’s an emergency.
• Keep records of all communications about access.
• If you agree to entry at a specific time, document this (email is best).

For more details about tenant and landlord rights in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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1. Can my landlord enter without my permission in Manitoba?
   Generally, your landlord cannot enter without your permission except in emergencies or if they have given you at least 24 hours written notice.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before entering in Manitoba?
   Your landlord must normally give you at least 24 hours' written notice, including the date, time, and reason for entry. Entry should be between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
3. What can I do if my landlord enters without proper notice?
   Document the incident and file a complaint with the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch using Form 5.
4. Are there exceptions where a landlord can enter immediately?
   Yes. Emergencies like fire, flooding, or urgent repairs allow landlords to enter without notice or consent.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord repeatedly ignores consent rules?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch to resolve disputes or seek an official order.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords in Manitoba must give 24 hours written notice before entry, except in emergencies or with your consent.
• Your privacy and quiet enjoyment are protected by law. Document any violations.
• The Residential Tenancies Branch can help with complaints or disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba): Information and support for tenant rights, forms, complaints, and guidance.
• Consumer Protection Division – Manitoba: Advice and resources on landlord-tenant issues.
• Local tenant support organizations or community legal clinics can also provide guidance and help with disputes.

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1. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act: Official Legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Branch, Province of Manitoba: RTB Official Website
3. Form 5, Tenant’s Application for Orders: Download from RTB

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