Living in Manitoba means tenants may rely on their landlord to keep a rental safe and weatherproof, including roofs, gutters, siding and other exterior elements. This guide explains what tenants can reasonably expect when leaks, storm damage or exterior deterioration occur, how to report issues, and what steps a renter should take if repairs are delayed. It covers landlord obligations under Manitoba tenancy rules, practical examples of tenant actions, timelines for urgent versus routine fixes, and how to use official channels to resolve disputes. Wherever possible the advice is plain-language and focuses on what tenants can do to protect their home and avoid losing rights.
Who is responsible for roofs and exteriors in Manitoba?
Under Manitoba tenancy rules, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structure and exterior of the rental property so it remains fit for habitation. That includes the roof, gutters, exterior walls, windows, doors and any common exterior areas. If your unit or the building envelope lets in water, creates a safety risk, or causes loss of heating or hot water, the landlord is normally required to repair it. For help contacting the provincial office that handles residential tenancy disputes, see the official Residential Tenancies Branch.[1]
Typical landlord responsibilities
- Repairing roof leaks and storm damage that affect habitability.
- Maintaining gutters, downspouts and drainage that protect the building envelope.
- Fixing broken exterior doors, windows and locks that affect security.
- Repairing siding, trim and exterior finishes to prevent water entry and mold.
- Keeping shared exterior areas, stairways and walkways safe and free from hazards.
What tenants should do first
Start by reporting the issue to your landlord or property manager in writing, describing the problem and when it began. Include photos and propose reasonable access times for repairs. If you and your landlord discussed responsibilities in your lease, keep records of any conversations, texts or emails. If the landlord does not respond or the repair is urgent (risk to health, safety, or major property damage) use official channels to escalate.
Timelines and urgency
- Report urgent issues (active leaks, loss of heat, major water entry) immediately and ask for prompt action.
- Allow reasonable access windows for repairs while keeping records of dates and times.
- For routine maintenance, expect a response and scheduling within a reasonable number of days depending on weather and contractor availability.
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Branch or file a dispute
If a landlord fails to fix an urgent habitability problem within a reasonable time after written notice, tenants can seek remedies through Manitoba's dispute process or ask for an order to compel repairs. The legislation that sets out tenant and landlord rights in Manitoba explains these options and how remedies are applied.[2]
Forms and official steps (practical examples)
- Application for Dispute Resolution — Use this official application when written requests to your landlord did not lead to required repairs; for example, you reported a leaking roof twice and the landlord did not schedule repairs.
- Request for Repair Documentation (use when available on the branch site) — Use to document the problem in a format the Residential Tenancies Branch recognizes before applying for adjudication.
When you prepare an application, attach dated photos, copies of your written repair requests, and any receipts for emergency costs you paid. If you are uncertain how to complete a form, the Residential Tenancies Branch publishes guidance and contact details to assist tenants.[1]
Practical tenant tips and rights
- Keep a simple log of dates, times and actions taken by you and the landlord.
- Send written notices by email and keep a copy; where possible, request confirmation of receipt.
- Be reasonable about access for repairs but insist on advance notice for non-urgent entry where the law requires it.
For general landlord and tenant obligations, including responsibilities not covered here, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. For health and habitability concerns such as mold or unsafe exteriors, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
If you are also searching for rental options while you consider repair timelines, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Who pays if storm damage affects my roof?
- The landlord is generally responsible for repairing storm damage to roofs and the exterior structure unless your lease says otherwise and the damage was caused by the tenant's intentional or negligent act.
- Can I withhold rent until the roof is fixed?
- Withholding rent is risky and not generally recommended; instead use the official dispute process after providing written notice and allowing the landlord reasonable time to repair.
- What if the landlord delays non-urgent exterior repairs?
- Document your requests, follow up in writing, and consider filing an application for dispute resolution if the delay affects habitability or safety.
How-To
- Document the problem with dated photos and a brief written description of when the damage started.
- Send a written request to your landlord that includes the photos and proposed access times, and keep a copy.
- If the issue is urgent and the landlord does not act, follow up immediately and note responses and times.
- If repairs are not made, submit the official application for dispute resolution with documented evidence and any repair receipts.
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for guidance on forms, the dispute timeline, and next steps.
