LTB Hearing Day: What Manitoba Tenants Should Expect

Facing a hearing before the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) in Manitoba can feel daunting. Whether your dispute involves eviction, rent arrears, or repairs, understanding what to expect will help you prepare. This article guides you through the typical process tenants experience on hearing day, the forms involved, and your rights under Manitoba's rental laws.

Who Handles Tenancy Disputes in Manitoba?

In Manitoba, residential tenancy disputes are resolved by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), not the LTB used in some other provinces. The RTB follows rules set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)^[1].

Arriving at Your RTB Hearing: What Happens First?

On the day of your hearing, you’ll usually attend either in person, by phone, or via videoconference (check your Notice of Hearing for details). It’s important to:

• Arrive or log in at least 10–15 minutes early
• Bring all your evidence, documents, and any witnesses
• Have your official Notice of Hearing (Form RTB-23), which confirms the time, date, and location

The hearing officer will explain the process, set ground rules, and confirm attendance.

Key Official Forms for Manitoba Tenants

• Notice of Hearing (RTB-23): This is sent to you by the RTB if you or your landlord has filed a dispute. It tells you when and how to join your hearing. Review it carefully. You can view an example here (official site).
• Application for Order of Possession (RTB-7): Often used when a landlord seeks an eviction. Tenants may respond if named. Form info: RTB-7.
• Tenant’s Application for Repairs or Rent Reduction (RTB-9): If your hearing is about poor conditions or needed repairs, you may have submitted this form. See RTB-9 (official link).

Always bring copies of any forms you’ve submitted or received to your hearing.

How a Typical Manitoba Tenancy Hearing Proceeds

• The hearing officer introduces everyone and explains the rules.
• Each side (landlord and tenant) presents their case — usually, the applicant goes first.
• You may be asked questions about your evidence or situation.
• You can question the other party’s evidence or witness testimony (known as cross-examination).
• The officer may pause the hearing if more documents are needed or to clarify information.
• Everyone gets a chance to make a closing statement before the hearing ends.

Hearings are less formal than court but are guided by the rules in Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act and RTB policies.

Tips for Tenants on Hearing Day

• Stay calm and speak clearly
• Stick to facts — bring photos, emails, or receipts if relevant
• Take notes during the hearing
• Only interrupt to raise a relevant point when allowed
• Prepare a short summary of what you want the hearing officer to know

If You Need to Reschedule or Miss the Hearing

If you can’t attend on the scheduled day for a serious reason, notify the RTB immediately using their official contact. They may allow a rescheduling if you have a valid reason, but missing your hearing without notice may lead to a decision in your absence.

Hearing Outcomes: What Happens After?

After the hearing, the officer will review all evidence and issue a written decision. You’ll receive this decision in the mail or by email. Outcomes might include:

• A payment plan for rent arrears
• An order for the landlord to make repairs or address conditions
• Eviction approval (if the landlord succeeds)
• Dismissal of the application

If you disagree with the decision, you have a limited window (usually 5 or 14 days, depending on the order) to request a review or appeal. The official RTB review procedure explains how to do this.

Examples of Typical Hearing Issues

• Eviction due to unpaid rent or alleged rule breaches
• Requests for urgent repairs or health-and-safety issues
• Disputes about deposit returns or damages (see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know)
• Conflicts over rent increases, lease terms, or noise complaints

Knowing common disputes is useful if you want to prepare evidence or arguments. For more on everyday problems and practical solutions, you can visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

How to Prepare for Your RTB Hearing (Checklist)

• Read your Notice of Hearing completely
• Organize any photos, letters, or receipts supporting your case
• Consider bringing witnesses (with advance notice)
• Write a summary of the main points you need to make
• Have copies of any forms you’ve sent to the RTB

You can also prepare by browsing Browse apartments for rent in Canada if you are planning a move after your hearing, or if you want to compare your housing options.

FAQ: Manitoba RTB Hearings

1. What happens if I don't attend my hearing?
   If you miss your scheduled hearing without notice, the officer can make a decision without your input, which may not be in your favour.
2. Can I bring someone for support?
   Yes, you can bring a support person or witness. Notify the RTB in advance if possible.
3. What kind of evidence should I bring?
   Bring all documents, photos, rental agreements, or communications relevant to your case. For deposit disputes, receipts or bank records can help.
4. How soon will I receive the decision?
   Most tenants receive a written copy of the decision within one to two weeks of the hearing, but timelines may vary.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for details specific to the province.

Key Takeaways

• Know your hearing date, time, and access instructions from your official notice
• Prepare facts, documents, and relevant forms in advance
• You can appeal if you disagree with the decision—but act quickly

Understanding the RTB hearing process helps tenants in Manitoba approach their case with confidence and clarity.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Official RTB website — forms, guides, and dispute information
• Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): Full legislation text
• MAP (Manitoba Advocacy Program): Telephone advice for tenants: 204-985-5230
• Tenant and Landlord Fact Sheet: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. "Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)", official: https://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/ccsm/r119e.php
2. Residential Tenancies Branch – Government of Manitoba: https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/
3. RTB official forms page: https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/forms.html

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