Manitoba Rental Move-In Checklist: Tenant's Guide

Moving into a new rental home in Manitoba is both exciting and demanding. Ensuring a smooth start means protecting your rights and avoiding pitfalls. This guide walks you through every essential step of moving in, from understanding deposits to conducting inspections, all based on Manitoba law.

Before You Move In: Key Preparations

Start your journey with these important action items:

• Sign Your Rental Agreement: Read and keep a copy of the written tenancy agreement, which outlines your rights and responsibilities as a tenant under Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba.^[1]
• Pay Your Deposit: Manitoba landlords can request a security deposit up to half one month's rent. Understand deposit rules—see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know—and request a signed receipt.
• Arrange Utilities & Insurance: Confirm set-up for electricity, water, or other services. Tenant insurance is recommended to protect your belongings.

These actions will form the foundation of a secure tenancy.

Upon Arriving at the Rental: Inspection & Documentation

Inspecting your new home thoroughly helps prevent future disputes. Manitoba encourages you to complete a move-in inspection with your landlord.

• Complete an Initial Condition Report: Walk through with your landlord and note any existing damage or issues. Both should sign and keep copies.
• Photograph and document current conditions, including appliances, flooring, and windows.
• Keep copies of all correspondence and agreements.

The Rental Unit Condition Report (Form RTB-27) is Manitoba's official form for recording move-in conditions. Provide detailed notes—these could determine if you get your deposit back in full.

Health & Safety Checklist

Manitoba law ensures tenants move into healthy and safe homes. Watch for:

• Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• No visible mold, pests, or safety hazards
• All locks, doors, and windows functioning as required
• Heating, plumbing, and appliances in working order

Learn more about safe rentals in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. Promptly report any problems to your landlord in writing and request needed repairs.

Accessibility and Discrimination Concerns

It's illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants based on race, gender, physical or mental disability, family status, or other protected grounds under the Manitoba Human Rights Code. If you need accommodations or experience discrimination, document your situation and contact the Residential Tenancies Branch or Manitoba Human Rights Commission for help.

Official Forms You May Need

Be prepared with these essential Manitoba forms:

• Rental Unit Condition Report (Form RTB-27): Use at move-in to document the rental's state. Both tenant and landlord sign.
  View and download Form RTB-27.
• Application for Tenancy (various forms): Used to initiate your tenancy. If you need to resolve disputes or enforce your rights, use the Application to the Residential Tenancies Branch (Form RTB-1).

Access all official Manitoba forms and information through the Residential Tenancies Branch, the government authority overseeing rentals in the province.^[2]

Understanding Your Rights After Move-In

Once you’ve moved in, your rights continue. You’re entitled to a safe home and privacy. Familiarize yourself with routine repairs, rent payments, and how to handle complaints. For practical move-in tips, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

For full details on laws affecting tenants and landlords, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Finding your ideal rental is easier than ever—Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with real-time listings and a user-friendly map.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Manitoba?
   Landlords in Manitoba may request up to half of one month's rent as a security deposit, and must pay interest as set by the province.
2. Is an initial inspection required before I move into my Manitoba rental?
   While not legally mandatory, completing an initial inspection with Form RTB-27 is strongly recommended to document the unit’s condition.
3. What should I do if I find safety issues or pests at move-in?
   Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible. If not resolved quickly, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for assistance.
4. Are landlords allowed to discriminate during the rental process?
   No. Discrimination based on protected characteristics is illegal under Manitoba’s Human Rights Code.
5. Where can I get help if I have an issue with my landlord after moving in?
   You can seek advice or file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch or the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Document everything at move-in—including the condition of your rental and any concerns
• Understand security deposit rules and official forms required
• Know your rights, especially regarding discrimination, accessibility, and safety

Staying organized during the move-in process helps ensure a fair and secure tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Official provincial board handling rental issues
• Manitoba Human Rights Commission: Support for discrimination and accessibility disputes
• Manitoba Housing Publications and Resources

---

1. See the Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba.
2. Visit the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch for information and forms.

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy