Understanding what you’re responsible for—and what your landlord must handle—can make life as a tenant in Manitoba much smoother. This checklist will help you keep your rental safe, healthy, and in top shape. It covers everything from basic repairs, how to handle urgent issues, and important forms tenants may need.
Who Handles What? Maintenance Responsibilities in Manitoba
Both tenants and landlords in Manitoba have legal duties under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).[1]
- Landlords: Must keep the rental in a good state of repair and fit for habitation. This includes plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and all health and safety matters.
- Tenants: Must keep their unit reasonably clean and report repair needs promptly. Minor, tenant-caused damage (e.g., a broken window) must be fixed or reported.
For a complete look at the rights and responsibilities on both sides, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Essential Maintenance & Repairs Checklist for Manitoba Tenants
When You Move In
- Document the condition of your rental with photos or video.
- Note any pre-existing damage and give your landlord a copy.
- Complete an initial inspection, if possible – see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
- Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms work.
Ongoing Routine Maintenance
- Keep your unit clean and free of hazards.
- Properly dispose of garbage to avoid pests.
- Report leaking pipes, appliance failures, or heating issues in writing.
- Change light bulbs or smoke alarm batteries if it’s your responsibility (check your lease).
Addressing Emergency Repairs
- Immediately notify your landlord of urgent issues (e.g., no heat in winter, flooding, or electrical hazards).
- Keep a record of all repair requests (date, description, and communication).
- If repairs are delayed and your home becomes unsafe, you may be able to arrange repairs yourself and deduct the cost, but strict procedures apply. Always contact the Residential Tenancies Branch before taking action.
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Key Health, Safety, and Structural Issues
Serious concerns such as mold, broken locks, pest infestations, or unsafe wiring should be reported immediately. Your landlord is required by law to address health and safety violations.
Learn more about your rights regarding living conditions in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Required Forms for Tenants in Manitoba
- Tenant’s Notice of Request for Repair (Form 7): Use if you’ve reported an issue and your landlord hasn’t responded within a reasonable time. Find Form 7 and instructions here. Example: If your landlord ignores a written request to fix a broken heater, file Form 7 with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
- Application for an Order of Repair: If the landlord still refuses action, you can formally apply for a repair order through the Residential Tenancies Branch. Detailed form guidance and online application are provided.
Always keep copies of submitted forms and communications for your records.
Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes?
In Manitoba, the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) manages rental disagreements, repair orders, and tenant applications.
Provincial Fact Resource
For more information specific to this province, visit: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
Tip: Address repair and maintenance issues as soon as they come up. Detailed records and formal requests help protect your rights.
Need to move? Explore rental homes in your area with Houseme’s map search.
Start a repair file: keep your lease, move-in photos, and a simple log of repair requests. When you report issues, ask for written confirmations and keep copies for your records. If repairs stall, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for guidance.
FAQ
- What repairs is my landlord legally responsible for?
Landlords must handle repairs for anything affecting health, safety, and habitability—like heating, plumbing, structural issues, or pest infestations. - What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair request?
Document your request in writing, then submit Form 7 (Tenant’s Notice of Request for Repair) to the Residential Tenancies Branch if the landlord doesn’t act within a reasonable time. - Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren’t made?
No. Manitoba law does not allow tenants to withhold rent, even if repairs haven’t been made. Use formal complaint and application processes instead. - Do I have to repair something I accidentally broke?
Yes, tenants are responsible for repairing or paying for damage they or their guests cause. - How long do landlords have to make repairs in Manitoba?
Repairs must be done within a reasonable timeframe, depending on severity. Urgent matters like no heat must be addressed much more quickly than cosmetic issues.
How To Address Repair Issues in Manitoba Rentals
- How do I formally request a repair in Manitoba?
First, send your landlord a written request describing the problem. If there’s no action, submit Form 7 (Tenant’s Notice of Request for Repair) to the Residential Tenancies Branch, including your communication history. - How do I make an application for a repair order?
If your landlord does not respond after you submit Form 7, fill out the official repair application form and submit it online or by mail to the RTB. Include evidence like photos, your lease, and communication records. - How do I track my repair requests?
Keep all correspondence in writing, date-stamp your requests, and save a backup. This helps if you need to involve the Branch or prove your steps. - How can I ensure urgent repairs are done quickly?
Notify the landlord immediately and follow up if necessary. For true emergencies, contact the RTB for guidance right away.
Summary: Key Takeaways for Tenants
- Know what you and your landlord are each responsible for regarding repairs
- Report maintenance issues quickly and keep written records
- Use official forms and the Residential Tenancies Branch if your landlord does not act
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): File a complaint or learn about tenant rights
- RTB Forms and Applications: All official forms for repairs, complaints, and more
- Legal Aid Manitoba: Free or low-cost legal help for qualified tenants
- Manitoba Housing – Tenant Resources: Guides and support programs
