Manitoba Rent Increase Guidelines: What Tenants Need to Know

Understanding annual rent increase guidelines in Manitoba is crucial for tenants who want financial stability and fair treatment in their rental homes. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) in Manitoba oversees rent increase procedures, sets annual limits, and ensures that landlords and tenants follow the law. This article will walk you through what Manitoba tenants need to know about rent increases in 2024, your rights, and what action you can take if you’re facing an increase.

How Rent Increases Work in Manitoba

Most Manitoba rental properties are covered by annual rent increase guidelines that set the maximum percentage a landlord can raise rent. These guidelines are updated by the provincial government each year to reflect economic factors and cost of living changes.

What Is the Maximum Annual Rent Increase?

• The maximum rent increase guideline for 2024 is 2.0%.
• Landlords cannot increase rent more than this limit for most residential units unless they apply for and receive special approval from the RTB.
• Some units, like those in new buildings or certain care homes, may be exempt. Always check your lease and with the RTB if you’re unsure.

Notice Requirements for a Rent Increase

Landlords must provide written notice at least three months before the rent increase date. The notice must include:

• The new rent amount and the date it starts
• The current rent amount
• How to contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for help

If you receive a rent increase notice, double-check that the landlord gave proper notice and did not exceed the annual guideline unless special approval is noted.

Your Rights as a Tenant When Facing a Rent Increase

Manitoba law protects tenants from unreasonable or excessive rent increases. If you feel the increase is too high, or you did not receive proper notice, you have rights and options to challenge it.

• You can file a dispute with the RTB if the rent increase is above the guideline or if proper notice was not given.
• Continue to pay your current rent on time during any dispute to avoid eviction for non-payment.
• Learn more about Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Most tenancies in Manitoba are also governed by other important rules. To get a complete picture, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Relevant Forms: Rent Increase Notice

• Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-5): This is the standard form landlords must use to notify tenants of a rent increase. If you are a tenant and receive a notice that does not use this form, or has missing information, you can challenge its validity.
  - View and download Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-5)

Example: If your lease renews on July 1, your landlord must give you a Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-5) by April 1 at the latest. If you receive it late, the increase may not be valid for that year.

What If the Increase Is Above the Guideline?

Landlords must apply for special approval through the RTB to increase rent by more than the annual guideline amount. Tenants will be notified if their landlord applies for an above-guideline increase and will have the opportunity to participate in the process or provide comments.

Staying on Top of Your Rent and Other Responsibilities

It is vital as a tenant to keep records of any rent increase notices and to always pay rent on time. For more tips, see our Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

To explore a wide range of rental options or if you are considering moving, check out Browse apartments for rent in Canada for updated listings and resources.

Key Tenant Legislation and Where to Get Support

All rent increase rules for Manitoba are established under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba). The official body responsible for tenant and landlord disputes, deposit issues, and all forms is the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB).¹

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much can my landlord legally raise my rent in Manitoba for 2024?
   The maximum guideline for 2024 is 2.0%. Landlords cannot exceed this percentage without approval from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
2. What if I get less than three months' notice of a rent increase?
   No, the rent increase is not valid unless you receive proper written notice at least three months before the increase takes effect.
3. Are all rental properties in Manitoba covered by the annual rent increase guideline?
   Most are, but some new buildings or certain care homes may be exempt. Check with the Residential Tenancies Branch if in doubt.
4. Can I dispute a rent increase that is above the guideline or lacks notice?
   Yes. You can file a dispute with the RTB if you believe the increase is not allowed or the notice was not properly provided.
5. Where can I find offical forms for rent increases or disputes?
   All forms, including the Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-5), are available on the RTB website.

Conclusion: What Manitoba Tenants Should Remember

• Landlords must follow the annual rent increase guideline (2.0% in 2024) and give at least three months' written notice using the correct form.
• Tenants have the right to dispute improper or above-guideline increases by contacting the RTB.
• Keep records, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re unsure about your rights.

By staying aware of rent guidelines and tenant protections, you can better plan your budget and avoid unnecessary disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Contact the RTB for questions, disputes, and forms
• Legal Aid Manitoba: Free or low-cost legal support for qualifying tenants
• Provincial Tenant Rights Information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): Full text of the Act

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