Manitoba Eviction FAQ: Tenant Rights and Answers

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Manitoba and worried about eviction, it’s vital to know your rights and the proper legal process. Manitoba’s laws protect tenants against unfair evictions, and understanding these rules can help you stay secure in your rental home. This guide will answer the most common tenant questions, including how evictions work, what notices are required, and how you can challenge a notice if you believe it’s not legal.

Eviction Basics in Manitoba: What Tenants Need to Know

In Manitoba, most evictions are governed by The Residential Tenancies Act and are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB)^[1]. Landlords must follow strict procedures if they wish to end a tenancy. As a tenant, understanding the basics can help you respond quickly and effectively.

• Your landlord can only evict you for specific legal reasons such as non-payment of rent, serious breaches of your rental agreement, or for landlord's use of property.
• All eviction notices must be in writing and include the reason and the date you are required to leave.
• You have the right to respond to a notice and, in many cases, appeal the eviction to the RTB.

Main Reasons Landlords Can Evict Tenants

• Non-payment or repeated late payment of rent
• Significant damage to the property
• Disturbing neighbours or breaking house rules
• Landlord’s personal use (such as moving in themselves or a close family member)
• End of employment (if your unit was provided as a condition of employment)

The Residential Tenancies Branch provides detailed explanations for each legal ground for eviction. For more details on tenant and landlord obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Eviction Notice Types and Official Forms

Manitoba landlords must use the proper notice form for each type of eviction. These include:

• Notice to Terminate for Non-Payment of Rent (Form 7): Given if you are late or haven’t paid your rent. Example: If you’ve missed rent and get Form 7, you usually have seven days to pay or move, or the landlord can apply for an Order of Possession. Official Form and Info: RTB Forms – Manitoba Government^[2]
• Notice to Terminate for Cause (Form 10): Issued when rules are broken (e.g., damage or disturbance). The notice period depends on the reason and the terms of your agreement.
• Notice to Terminate for Landlord’s Use (Form 11 or 12): If a landlord or family member needs the unit, they must follow timelines and use the correct form.

Always check the notice for errors. If something seems off or you weren’t given the right notice, you may be able to challenge the eviction.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

Don’t panic if you get a notice. Here are the key steps:

• Read the notice carefully—Check the reason, the notice period, and make sure you received the correct form.
• Contact the RTB if unsure—Their officers help tenants understand their options.
• Consider mediation—You may be able to resolve issues with your landlord through RTB’s mediation programs.
• Appeal (Request a Hearing)—If you disagree with the notice, you can request a hearing at the RTB by completing the Application for Order of Possession Review within five days of receiving the notice for non-payment of rent. See the RTB website for review applications and forms.^[2]

Appealing an Eviction or Order of Possession

If the landlord applies for an Order of Possession (the legal step needed to remove you after an eviction notice), you have the right to a hearing. This hearing happens at the RTB and gives you—and the landlord—a chance to present your side. If you believe you were wrongfully served or want to explain your circumstances, this is your chance. Bring:

• Copies of your rental agreement
• Receipts or bank statements showing payment/repairs
• Photos, communication records, or witness statements

For more on life after receiving a notice, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Tenant Rights: What Manitoba Law Says

The main law covering evictions is The Residential Tenancies Act (C.C.S.M. c. R119)^[3]. It outlines exactly when and how landlords can evict a tenant, notice periods, appeals, and what to do if the process isn’t followed properly. For a summary about tenant rights and landlord duties specific to your province, you can review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Quick Tips for Tenants Facing Eviction

• Never ignore a notice—act quickly
• Communicate in writing with your landlord whenever possible
• Attach supporting evidence (e.g., payment records) to any appeal
• Seek help—the RTB, legal clinics, and tenant support groups exist to help you
• Only move out if ordered by the RTB or Manitoba courts, not just by a landlord’s letter

Looking for a new place? Browse apartments for rent in Canada for updated rental listings and tips.

Frequently Asked Questions about Evictions in Manitoba

1. Can a landlord evict me without a written notice in Manitoba?
   No. All evictions must be provided in writing using official RTB forms. If you didn’t receive written notice, the eviction is not legally valid.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give for eviction?
   The notice period depends on the reason. For non-payment of rent, it can be as short as seven days. For landlord’s use or renovations, it’s usually longer—up to three months. Check your notice for specifics.
3. What if I pay the rent after getting an eviction notice?
   If you pay within the specified time in the notice (often seven days), the notice is cancelled. Always get a receipt or proof of payment.
4. Can I appeal an eviction in Manitoba?
   Yes. You can apply to the RTB for a dispute resolution hearing. Do so quickly—deadlines are short, especially for non-payment of rent.
5. Do I still have to pay rent during the dispute process?
   Yes, you must continue paying rent while your appeal or hearing is in process. Missing payments could hurt your case.

How To: Responding to an Eviction Notice in Manitoba

1. How do I challenge an eviction notice for non-payment of rent?
   Review the notice, pay the rent due within the allowed period, and, if you disagree with the notice, complete the Application for Order of Possession Review from the RTB immediately.
2. How do I request a hearing at the Residential Tenancies Branch?
   Get the right application form from the RTB website, fill it out with your information and explanation, attach your evidence, and submit it before the deadline (usually within five days for non-payment cases).
3. How do I find out the status of my case?
   Contact the RTB directly by phone, email, or visit their office. They can provide updates and timelines.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• All evictions in Manitoba must follow strict procedures and use correct official forms
• Tenants have rights to appeal, stay in their unit during the process, and seek free guidance from the RTB
• Understanding written notices and timelines is key to protecting your home

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Main office for all tenant disputes and questions
• Official RTB forms and resources
• Legal Aid Manitoba – Low-cost legal help for qualifying tenants
• Community Legal Education Association Manitoba – Tenant education and support

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1. ^[1] Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch
2. ^[2] RTB – Forms for Tenants and Landlords
3. ^[3] The Residential Tenancies Act (C.C.S.M. c. R119)

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