Manitoba Rent & Deposit FAQ: Tenants’ Rights & Procedures

Renting in Manitoba comes with unique rules for rent payments, deposits, and your rights as a tenant. Whether you’re moving in, handling your first rent increase, or have questions about your deposit, knowing your legal protections and obligations is vital. This guide answers the most common tenant questions about rent and deposits in Manitoba, including how much you can be asked to pay, how deposits work, forms you might need, and where to seek help if issues arise.

Paying Rent: What Tenants in Manitoba Should Know

Rent payment is the foundation of every tenancy agreement. In Manitoba, landlords and tenants must follow specific rules set by the Residential Tenancies Branch, the tribunal that oversees rental housing issues.

• Payment Methods: Landlords can request payment by cash, cheque, e-transfer, or other means. Both parties should keep receipts for all transactions.
• Due Date: Rent is usually due on the first day of each month unless the rental agreement states otherwise.
• Late Payment: If rent is unpaid, landlords must follow the process under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) ^[1] before eviction proceedings can begin.

Review our Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for more detailed advice.

Security Deposits: How They Work

Most rentals in Manitoba require a security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit). Here’s what you need to know:

• The maximum deposit a landlord can charge is half a month’s rent.
• The deposit must be held in trust and accrue interest at the government’s prescribed rate.
• Your landlord may deduct for damages (beyond normal wear and tear) but must return the rest of your deposit after you move out.

See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for deeper explanations of deposit types and your protections.

Key Forms for Tenants

To manage disputes or requests related to rent or deposits, you may need to use specific provincial forms:

• Security Deposit Return Request Form – Use this form if your landlord has not returned your deposit within 14 days (with explanation) after your tenancy ends.
  Download the Security Deposit Return Request Form (PDF). For example, if you have moved out, cleaned the unit, returned the keys, and your landlord hasn’t provided your deposit or a statement of deductions within 14 days, submit this form to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
• Rent Increase Notice (Form RTB-7) – Landlords must use this form to legally notify tenants of a rent increase. Tenants should keep the notice for their records.
  See the Rent Increase Notice (RTB-7) (PDF).

Always use official, current forms and keep copies for your documentation.

Understanding Rent Increases

In Manitoba, your landlord can increase your rent once every 12 months, but must provide at least three months’ written notice using the required form.
Most rent increases are regulated — some years, government sets a maximum allowable percentage. There are also special processes for new buildings or after major renovations. If you believe the increase is unfair or not permissible, you can apply to have it reviewed by the Residential Tenancies Branch, usually within 60 days of receiving the notice.

Learn more about this topic in Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back

After you move out, your landlord must return your deposit (plus interest) within 14 days, unless legitimate deductions are made for damages or unpaid rent. You are entitled to an itemized statement explaining any deductions. The rules protect you from unfair withholding.

For practical advice on the move-out process and maximizing your refund, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Your Rights, Responsibilities, and Where to Learn More

Manitoba’s Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba page provides essential facts about eviction, repairs, privacy, and dispute resolution. You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to browse available rentals in your area with trusted listings.

1. Can my landlord require both a last month’s rent deposit and a security deposit?
   No. In Manitoba, landlords may only collect a security deposit up to half a month’s rent. Collecting a last month’s rent deposit is not permitted.
2. What if I cannot pay rent on the due date?
   Contact your landlord immediately to explain the situation. If rent remains unpaid, the landlord must follow the eviction process under the law, but you have opportunities to resolve payment before eviction proceeds.
3. How much notice does my landlord have to give for a rent increase?
   Your landlord must give at least three months’ written notice using the approved form before a rent increase can take effect, and only one increase is allowed every 12 months.
4. Can my landlord deduct cleaning or repainting costs from my deposit?
   Landlords can only deduct for damages beyond normal wear and tear, or unpaid rent. Ordinary cleaning costs or routine repainting generally cannot be charged to your deposit.
5. What if I disagree with the amount withheld from my deposit?
   You may apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution using the Security Deposit Return Request Form. Provide evidence such as inspection reports or photos to support your claim.

1. How do I challenge a rent increase I think is too high?
   1. Review the notice for accuracy.
   2. Submit your application to the Residential Tenancies Branch within 60 days.
   3. Provide supporting documents, such as your rental agreement and the rent increase notice.
   4. Attend the hearing (which may be in writing, by phone, or in person).
2. How do I request my deposit back after moving out?
   1. Clean the unit and return the keys.
   2. If your deposit is not returned within 14 days, complete the Security Deposit Return Request Form.
   3. Submit the form with proof (e.g., move-out photos, cleaning receipts) to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
3. How can I pay rent safely and prove payment?
   1. Use documented payment methods (e-transfer, cheque, etc.).
   2. Always request a written receipt from your landlord.
   3. Keep your own records (screenshots, bank statements, receipts).

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Security deposits cannot exceed half a month’s rent and must be held in trust with interest.
• Rent increases are strictly regulated and require three months’ written notice.
• Official forms, such as the Security Deposit Return Request, help you assert your rights if disputes arise.

Staying informed about your rights and procedures is the best way to protect your tenancy and your money.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba) – Information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Manitoba Tenancy Forms and Publications – Official documents for rent, deposits, and complaints
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba – Provincial rules and frequently asked questions
• For in-person help, visit your nearest Residential Tenancies Branch office or call 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg) or toll-free 1-800-782-8403.

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^[1] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)

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