Living in a multi-unit building means relying on shared or common areas — entrances, hallways, laundry rooms, stairs, parking and outdoor walkways. Manitoba renters should know what landlords must maintain, how to report safety or repair problems, and when to escalate unresolved issues. This guide explains common-area duties in plain language, shows practical tenant steps for documentation and contacting the Residential Tenancies Branch, and points to the official forms and laws that apply in Manitoba to protect habitability and safety.
What landlords must do for common areas
Under Manitoba tenancy rules, landlords are responsible for ensuring common areas remain safe, accessible, and in good repair. That responsibility covers routine maintenance, snow and ice removal, lighting, locks and secure entrances, drainage and pest control where it affects shared spaces.
- Repair and routine maintenance of shared systems (heating, plumbing, elevators) that affect all tenants.
- Snow and ice removal from walkways and stairs to prevent slip-and-fall hazards.
- Adequate exterior and corridor lighting for tenant safety and crime prevention.
- Secure locks, functioning entry doors and controlled access where provided.
- Timely pest-control measures when infestations are in common areas or spread to units.
How to report problems and what to expect
Start by telling your landlord or property manager in writing about the problem and keep a dated copy. Be specific about location, hazard and any immediate risk. If the landlord does not respond in a reasonable time, tenants can collect evidence and consider filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution.[1]
When repairs are urgent
Urgent common-area issues include broken locks, dangerous electrical faults, major water leaks, impassable stairs, and anything creating an immediate safety risk. Tell the landlord immediately and follow up in writing. If the landlord cannot or will not fix an urgent hazard promptly, contact emergency services when necessary and consider filing with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
What evidence to collect
- Photos and short videos showing the issue and date-stamped when possible.
- Copies of written requests or messages sent to the landlord about the problem.
- Notes of any phone calls including date, time and name of the person you spoke with.
Tenant and landlord responsibilities — practical notes
Tenants must take reasonable care in common areas: avoid creating hazards, report damage promptly, and follow building rules that are reasonable and in the tenancy agreement. For a concise summary of mutual duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Health and safety issues linked to common areas
Problems like mold in stairwells, blocked fire exits, or poor lighting are health and safety issues. If a shared-area hazard affects your health or safety, document it and use formal reporting steps. For more on tenant safety responsibilities and what to expect from a landlord, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
FAQ
- Who is responsible for clearing snow from shared walkways?
- The landlord is generally responsible for snow and ice removal in common areas unless the lease explicitly assigns specific duties to tenants; if removal is not done and a hazard exists, report it in writing and keep evidence.
- What should I do if a common-area repair is urgent and the landlord doesn’t act?
- Make an urgent written request, call emergency services if it threatens immediate safety, collect evidence, and consider applying to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution if the landlord fails to act.
- Can I withhold rent for problems in common areas?
- Do not withhold rent. Instead, document the issue and follow formal complaint procedures with the Residential Tenancies Branch; withholding rent can lead to eviction proceedings.
How-To
- Document the problem with clear photos or video and note dates and times.
- Notify the landlord or property manager in writing and keep a copy of the message.
- If there is no timely response, follow up by phone and record who you spoke to and when.
- Apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution with your evidence if the issue remains unresolved.[2]
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep common areas safe and in good repair.
- Document issues thoroughly and report them in writing.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Branch for unresolved disputes and formal applications.[1]
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) — Manitoba
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- RTB Forms and Guides — Manitoba
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