Manitoba Landlord Background Checks: What Tenants Should Know

If you're a tenant in Manitoba applying for a new rental, you might wonder if landlords can ask for background checks. It's common to feel uncertain about what information landlords are allowed to request, and what your rights are under Manitoba law. Understanding these rules helps you protect your privacy and ensures fair treatment during the rental application process.

Are Landlords Allowed to Run Background Checks in Manitoba?

Yes, landlords in Manitoba may request background information as part of screening new tenants. This typically includes references, verification of income, and credit checks. However, landlords must act within specific legal guidelines and cannot discriminate against tenants based on protected characteristics.

• Credit checks: Legal with your written consent.
• Reference checks: Common and permitted.
• Criminal record checks: May be requested, but only when relevant to the tenancy.
• Personal information: Must be collected, used, and disclosed according to Canada's privacy laws.

Landlords must follow Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act and The Human Rights Code, which prohibit discrimination based on:

• Race or ethnic origin
• Religion or creed
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Marital or family status
• Age or disability
• Source of income (e.g., social assistance)

What Consent Does a Landlord Need?

Before obtaining your background information, a landlord must get your written consent, especially for a credit check. Never feel pressured to provide confidential details without understanding how your information will be used and stored.

When Can a Background Check Become Discriminatory?

If a landlord uses background checks to avoid renting to someone because they belong to a protected group, that's discrimination. For example, refusing to rent to someone just because they receive social assistance or belong to a specific religion is illegal.

What to Expect When Applying for a Rental in Manitoba

Landlords in Manitoba may ask for several pieces of information during your application. This process should be consistent for all applicants to ensure fairness under the law.

• Proof of income (such as pay stubs or benefits statements)
• References from previous landlords or employers
• Consent for a credit check
• Photo ID (may be requested to verify identity, but landlords cannot collect unnecessary information)

For an overview of your rights as a tenant in Manitoba, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

What Landlords Cannot Ask For

• Social Insurance Number (SIN) — providing your SIN is not required by law for rental applications.
• Information about your ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation.
• Questions that suggest discrimination against protected groups.

For related information on entry costs to a new rental, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

How to Respond If You Suspect Discrimination

If you believe a landlord has discriminated against you during the application process, you have the right to file a human rights complaint.

• Document any statements or requests that felt discriminatory.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for advice or to file a complaint about general tenancy matters.
• Contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission to file a formal human rights complaint.

Both organizations offer guidance, and the Human Rights Commission will provide forms and information on the process. If you do file, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Your contact details
• The landlord’s name and rental address
• A detailed description of what happened
• Any supporting documents or correspondence

Relevant Official Forms

• Human Rights Complaint Form – Used to initiate a discrimination claim. Available from the Manitoba Human Rights Commission Complaint Process. For example, if a landlord denies your rental application based on your disability, you can fill out this form and submit it by mail or online.
• Application for Tenancy (Landlord/Tenant) – Used to document rental applications but is not mandatory; landlords may use their own forms. No standard provincial form; always ask for a copy for your records.

Protecting Your Rights When Moving In

If you are accepted as a tenant:

• Review your rental agreement carefully before signing.
• Never leave blank fields in your application or lease.
• Request a copy of any background or credit check report provided to the landlord.

Learn more about what happens after you sign your agreement at What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

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FAQs: Tenant Screening and Discrimination in Manitoba

1. Can a landlord in Manitoba legally run a credit check on me?
   Yes, but only if you give your written consent. Landlords must follow privacy and anti-discrimination laws.
2. What should I do if a landlord requests my Social Insurance Number?
   You are not legally required to provide your SIN to a landlord in Manitoba. You may offer other identifiers, like full name and date of birth, for a credit check.
3. If I believe I've been discriminated against, how do I make a complaint?
   Gather evidence and file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for support and information.
4. Can a landlord reject my application based only on a poor credit score?
   Yes, provided this decision is made for all applicants equally and not for a discriminatory reason. If used to mask discrimination, it is illegal.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Renters

• Landlords may run background checks with your written consent, and must treat all applicants equally.
• Discrimination based on protected human rights grounds is illegal.
• If you suspect discrimination, keep records and consider filing a complaint with the appropriate authority.

Know your rights, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re unsure about what a landlord can request during screening.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba: For rental disputes, forms, and information.
• Manitoba Human Rights Commission: To file discrimination complaints or consult about human rights issues.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba: Up-to-date overview of Manitoba rental law.

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1. Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act
2. The Human Rights Code of Manitoba
3. Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba

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