Manitoba Lease Renewal Rules: What Tenants Must Know

Every tenant in Manitoba should understand what happens when a fixed-term lease approaches its end. Knowing your rights and the landlord’s obligations around lease renewal, notice periods, rent changes and paperwork helps you avoid surprises and protect your housing security. This guide explains common renewal situations: automatic renewal, transitioning to a month-to-month tenancy, how and when landlords must give written notice, and what forms or applications a tenant may need. It also covers practical steps—documenting communications, responding to notices, and when to seek help from the Residential Tenancies Branch or legal clinics. Clear examples and links to official Manitoba forms make it simple for renters to act and preserve their rights.

What to expect when your fixed-term lease ends

When a fixed-term lease reaches its end date in Manitoba, the tenancy may either end, be renewed with a new fixed-term agreement, or continue as a periodic tenancy depending on what you and your landlord agree to. Always check the written lease for renewal clauses and start conversations early so you have time to review options and written notices. If you need information or to file an application about a renewal dispute, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for guidance ^[1].

Notice and timing

• Read your lease for any required notice period and dates so you know deadlines and when decisions must be communicated.
• If you plan to move out at the end of a fixed term, give your landlord written notice by the timeline stated in the lease or by reasonable notice if the lease is silent.
• If a landlord proposes a new fixed term or rent change, ask for the offer in writing and keep a copy for your records.
• If you don’t agree with a proposed change, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch early to learn your options and timelines for filing an application ^[1].

Common lease renewal outcomes

• A new fixed-term lease with updated terms can be signed by both parties if you agree.
• If you move out at the end of the term, provide the required written notice and complete move-out steps such as returning keys and booking a final inspection.
• If no new agreement is signed, the tenancy may continue month-to-month under similar terms unless the lease or law states otherwise.

Forms you may need and when to use them

Manitoba provides official information and forms for tenants and landlords on the provincial renting pages. Two commonly relevant items for lease renewal situations are:

• Notice to Vacate / Notice to Terminate Tenancy — used when a landlord or tenant gives formal written notice that the tenancy will end. Use this when you or the landlord are ending the tenancy on the lease end date or for other permitted reasons; keep a dated copy and proof of delivery. Official forms and guidance are available from the provincial forms page ^[2].
• Application for Dispute Resolution — if you and the landlord cannot agree on renewal terms, use the province’s application or online process to request a hearing or dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch. File promptly and include clear evidence (documents, photos, receipts) to support your case; see the provincial forms page for instructions ^[2].

Practical steps tenants should take

1. Gather your lease, receipts, and any written communication about renewal or rent changes so you have a complete record.
2. Respond in writing to any renewal offer or notice and keep a copy of your reply.
3. If you disagree with a proposed change, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for next steps and timelines ^[1].
4. If negotiation fails, file an Application for Dispute Resolution and prepare your evidence.
5. Attend any scheduled conference or hearing and bring originals or copies of all documents mentioned in your application.

FAQ

Do I have to move out at the end of a fixed-term lease?

Not always. If you and your landlord agree, you can sign a new lease; otherwise the tenancy may continue on a periodic basis depending on the lease terms and local rules.

How should I respond to a rent increase proposed at renewal?

Ask for the increase in writing, review whether it follows provincial rules, and contact the Residential Tenancies Branch if you believe the increase is unlawful or improperly applied.

What if my landlord doesn’t offer a new lease in writing?

Request written confirmation of any renewal or new terms and save copies of communications; if there is a dispute, written records are essential for filings.

How-To

1. Review your current lease and note the end date and any renewal clauses.
2. Request or respond to renewal terms in writing and keep a dated copy.
3. Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for clarification or to learn how to file an application if you cannot reach agreement ^[1].
4. If needed, complete and submit the Application for Dispute Resolution following the province’s instructions ^[2].
5. Attend any scheduled hearing, present your evidence, and follow the decision or steps ordered by the Branch.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba) for filing and guidance ^[1]
• Access official renting forms and application instructions ^[2]
• Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) - legislation and rules ^[3]

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Branch - Government of Manitoba
2. [2] Renting forms and applications - Government of Manitoba
3. [3] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) - Government of Manitoba