Legal Rules for Rent Increases in Manitoba

If you’re renting in Manitoba, understanding the legal rules around when your rent can increase is essential to protect your rights and plan your budget. The province sets clear guidelines for landlords who want to raise the rent—these cover when increases are allowed, how much notice you must receive, and what limits exist, especially in rent-controlled units. Below, you’ll find a practical overview and steps to take if your landlord gives notice of a rent increase.

When Can Your Rent Be Increased in Manitoba?

In Manitoba, rent increases are regulated by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). Most rental units in the province are subject to annual rent increase guidelines. According to Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1], landlords must:

• Wait at least 12 months after the start of the tenancy or the last legal increase to raise your rent.
• Give notice at least three months (90 days) before the new rent takes effect.
• Use the prescribed form for rent increase notices.

Not all types of rentals are covered by these rules (e.g., units in personal care homes, certain nonprofit or government-subsidized housing, or if you share certain facilities with your landlord). To be sure, check with the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Limits on How Much Rent Can Increase

Each year, Manitoba sets a maximum allowable rent increase for most residential tenancies. Landlords are generally not allowed to raise the rent above this cap unless they first apply for approval from the Residential Tenancies Branch.

For 2024, the rent increase guideline is 2.0% for most units. If your landlord wants to increase rent above this percentage, they must formally apply and justify the proposed increase with documented expenses.

If you’re unsure about paying a rent hike, see the Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know guide for a detailed breakdown of your options and rights when faced with a rent increase.

Notice Requirements: What Your Landlord Must Provide

Landlords must use the official "Notice of Rent Increase" form (Form RTB-7) and serve you the notice at least three full months before the increase is set to begin. For example, if the new rent starts July 1, you must get notice by April 1. The form must clearly state:

• The amount of the new rent
• The date the increase begins
• Your address and unit details

You can view and download the official form from the Residential Tenancies Branch Forms page (look for "Notice of Rent Increase" RTB-7).

How Should Notices Be Delivered?

Rent increase notices can be served in person, left in your mailbox or under your door, or sent via registered mail. Electronic delivery (such as email) is only permitted if you and your landlord have both agreed in writing to communicate this way.

If You Disagree with a Rent Increase

You have the right to apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for a review if:

• You received notice of a rent increase above the annual guideline
• You believe the notice is not valid (e.g., too short a notice period, incorrect form used, etc.)

If you apply for a review, the Branch will investigate and may hold a hearing to decide if the increase is allowed. No action can be taken against you for simply filing a review.

How to Dispute a Rent Increase

1. Contact the RTB to confirm if the notice and amount are legal.
2. If you want to dispute, complete and submit the form Application for Review of a Rent Increase (available on the official forms page).
3. Submit your application within the time listed on your notice (usually 60 days after you receive it).
4. Attend any scheduled hearing (virtual or in-person).

The Residential Tenancies Branch will review your case and notify both you and your landlord of the decision.

Special Situations: Exemptions and Exceptions

Certain units are exempt from guideline rent increases, including:

• Newly built rental units (for the first 20 years)
• Units in personal care homes
• Certain non-profit, government, or co-operative housing

Double-check with the Residential Tenancies Branch, as exemption rules can change or have specific requirements.

Key Forms

• Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-7): Used by your landlord to inform you of a rent increase at least three months in advance. Details your new rent and start date. Download the RTB-7.
• Application for Review of a Rent Increase: Use if you want to challenge a rent increase above the legal guideline. Submit promptly after receiving the notice. Get the review form here.

If you are new to renting or want to be proactive about your rights, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay the Increased Rent?

If you don’t pay the increased rent and the increase is legal, your landlord may be able to give notice to end your tenancy. If you believe the increase is not valid, apply for a review as soon as possible to avoid complications. See the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for payment advice and dispute options.

For information beyond Manitoba, including how regulations compare in different provinces, check the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba page.

Ready to look for a new rental? Browse apartments for rent in Canada for current listings and options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often can my landlord increase the rent in Manitoba?
   Generally, a landlord can increase your rent only once every 12 months and must give at least three months’ notice in writing using the official form.
2. What if my landlord tries to raise the rent above the guideline?
   They must apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for approval and notify you. You can dispute the increase by submitting a review application before the deadline.
3. Am I protected from rent increases in all rental units?
   Most rental units are covered, but exemptions exist (for example, new builds, care facilities, or certain government-subsidized housing). Confirm with the RTB if unsure.
4. Do I have to accept a rent increase?
   You don’t have to accept an increase above the guideline if it hasn’t been approved. You may apply for a review if you believe the increase is not permitted.
5. Where can I find official rent increase forms?
   On the Manitoba RTB forms page.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Your landlord must wait 12 months between rent increases and provide at least 3 months’ official notice using the correct form.
• Annual increase limits apply, unless your unit is exempt—always check with the Residential Tenancies Branch if unsure.
• If you believe a rent increase is unfair or not allowed, act quickly to dispute it through the RTB.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Main provincial body for tenant-landlord matters. Call 1-800-782-8403 or visit a local RTB office for support.
• Official RTB Forms: Access all forms related to renting, rent increases, and complaints.
• Manitoba Provincial Tenant Resources: Additional information about your tenant rights and rental support programs.
• For support in finding a new home, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

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1. Manitoba: Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancies Branch
3. Official Rent Increase Notice (RTB-7)
4. Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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