Tenants in Manitoba often rely on their landlord to keep a rental safe and in working order. This guide explains what repairs landlords are legally required to arrange, typical timelines for urgent and routine maintenance, how to report problems, and when tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch. It uses plain language so renters can understand rights and next steps, including examples of evidence and what to include in written requests. If a landlord does not act, this article explains practical options for tenants, the official forms to use, and how to prepare a clear application for dispute resolution. The goal is to help Manitoba renters get timely repairs while preserving their legal rights.
Your rights and the landlord's legal duty
Under Manitoba law the landlord must provide and maintain a rental unit in a reasonable state of repair and fit for habitation. This includes basic heat, plumbing, hot water, and structural safety. If a problem affects health or safety the landlord must act quickly. Tenants should report problems in writing and keep a dated copy of the request to create a record.
What counts as a repair
Repairs include anything that affects habitability or the agreed use of the unit: heating failures in winter, major leaks, blocked sewage, electrical hazards, lack of hot water, or pest infestations that the landlord is responsible for addressing. Minor maintenance that results from tenant damage can be the tenant's responsibility, depending on the lease and local rules.
How to report repairs and document the issue
Always report repair requests in writing and include photos, a clear description, and dates. A written record helps if you later need to apply for a dispute resolution hearing. When you send the request, use email or registered mail so you have proof of delivery.
- Keep dated photos or videos of damage and problems.
- Send written repair requests and keep copies.
- Note the dates and any communication with the landlord or maintenance staff.
Urgent repairs and timelines
Urgent issues such as no heat in winter, gas leaks, major plumbing failures, or electrical hazards require immediate attention. Landlords should respond promptly and arrange repairs without delay. If the landlord does not act, tenants may have short-term options such as calling emergency services for hazards or arranging temporary fixes and documenting costs.
For emergencies and tenant rights specific to urgent repairs, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and for routine issues consult Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
What to do if a landlord won’t fix the problem
Start by sending a clear written request that states the problem, the date you first noticed it, and a reasonable deadline for repair. If the landlord still does not act, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution. Before filing, gather your documentation: dated photos, copies of messages, and a log of phone calls.
- Send a written request naming the issue and a proposed repair deadline.
- Save photos, messages, and receipts as evidence.
- If unresolved, apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch[1].
FAQ
- Who is responsible for repairs in Manitoba?
- Landlords are responsible for maintaining the unit in a reasonable state of repair and ensuring basic services like heat, plumbing, and power. Tenants are responsible for damage they or their guests cause.
- How quickly must a landlord fix an urgent problem?
- Urgent problems must be addressed immediately or within a very short time so as to protect health and safety. If safety is at risk, call emergency services then notify the landlord.
- Can a tenant arrange a repair and deduct the cost from rent?
- Tenant-arranged repairs and rent deductions are risky and usually require prior authorization or a tribunal order. Apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch before withholding rent or making unilateral deductions.
How-To
- Document the problem: take dated photos, write a clear description, and record impact on habitability.
- Give written notice to your landlord describing the repair and a reasonable deadline to fix it.
- If it's an emergency, call emergency services and notify the landlord immediately; keep evidence of the hazard.
- Apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution if the landlord does not act[1].
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep rental units safe, habitable, and in reasonable repair.
- Document issues carefully and always communicate repair requests in writing.
- Apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch when reasonable repair attempts fail.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch, Manitoba
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- RTB forms and applications
