Manitoba Tenant Checklist for Special Tenancy Situations
Living in a rental home can bring unexpected situations—whether you need to break a lease early, sublet, or face an emergency repair. Manitoba has specific rules for these "special tenancy situations." This guide walks Manitoba tenants through common scenarios, official forms, key steps, and your rights under the The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This checklist is current for 2024 and helps you avoid costly mistakes when life changes or conflict arises with your landlord.
Understanding Special Tenancy Situations in Manitoba
"Special tenancy situations" include circumstances that go beyond normal renting—like subletting, assignment, leaving early due to a sale, family illness, job transfer, domestic violence, or emergency building issues. Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) administers these rules and provides official forms for most actions.1
Your Rights and Key Resources
- The main law is The Residential Tenancies Act
- The RTB is your tribunal for all rental disputes: Residential Tenancies Branch – Manitoba
- See our detailed comparison on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
Checklist: What to Do in Common Special Tenancy Situations
1. Subletting or Assigning Your Tenancy
If you need to leave your rental temporarily or permanently, consider subletting (someone lives in your unit while you intend to return) or assigning (permanent transfer of lease). You must:
- Get your landlord's written permission before subletting/assigning.
- Use the official form "Application for Sublet or Assignment of Tenancy" (Form RTB-3). Download from Manitoba RTB
- Example: You’re taking a work placement in another city for four months and want to sublet your apartment. Fill out RTB-3, submit to your landlord, and retain a copy for your records.
- If your landlord refuses without valid reason, you may apply to the RTB for dispute resolution.
2. Breaking Your Lease Early
Tenants sometimes need to leave before the end of a fixed-term lease due to personal circumstances or emergencies. In Manitoba, it’s essential to:
- Provide written notice to your landlord using the correct "Tenant's Notice of Termination" (Form RTB-8 for monthly tenancies or RTB-9 for fixed term)
- Special Situations: Victims of domestic violence can end their lease without penalty by submitting "Application for Early Termination – Domestic Violence or Long-Term Care" (Form RTB-21). Find forms here.
- Return your keys and leave the unit in good condition to avoid disputes
3. Emergencies and Uninhabitable Conditions
Major issues like floods, fires, or essential services (like heat or water) being unavailable may allow you to terminate your tenancy early. Always:
- Notify your landlord in writing about the emergency and allow time for repairs (unless dangerous).
- Document everything for your records with photos and descriptions.
- If unlivable after a reasonable period, file a complaint using RTB's "Tenant's Application for Order of Possession or Compensation" (Form RTB-16).
If repairs aren't done or the place becomes unsafe, apply to the RTB immediately for guidance and possible compensation.
4. When the Landlord Sells the Property
If your landlord sells your building, your rights usually remain protected. The purchaser becomes your new landlord and must honour your existing lease. If you're given improper termination notice, you can dispute it by contacting the RTB or submitting a Tenant’s Application (RTB-16). Always keep copies of any notices you receive.
5. Leaving Due to Health or Safety Issues
If uncontrollable issues (pests, mold, or dangerous wiring) make your home unsafe, you may have the right to end your tenancy.
- Report the issue first to your landlord and allow reasonable time for repairs (Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities).
- If unresolved, document and apply to the RTB to terminate the lease or request compensation (Form RTB-16).
Required Manitoba Tenancy Forms (with Examples)
- Application for Sublet or Assignment (Form RTB-3) – Used to seek landlord approval for subletting or assigning.
- Tenant’s Notice of Termination (Form RTB-8/9) – Used to end a tenancy (monthly or fixed term).
- Application for Early Termination – Special Circumstances (Form RTB-21) – For domestic violence or moving to care.
- Tenant’s Application for Order of Possession or Compensation (Form RTB-16) – For emergencies, building sale disputes, or compensation.
All official forms are available on the Manitoba RTB Forms List.
What to Do Before Moving Out
- Give proper written notice with the official form.
- Complete a move-out inspection and document your unit’s condition. (See The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out)
- Leave the unit clean and return all keys.
- Request the return of your security deposit in writing.
FAQ: Special Tenancy Situations for Manitoba Tenants
- What happens if my landlord sells the property I am renting?
Your lease usually continues with the new owner. If you receive a termination notice, check its validity and contact the RTB if unsure. - Can I end my lease early if I am experiencing family violence?
Yes. Use Form RTB-21 and follow instructions from the RTB for protection. - Do I need my landlord’s approval to sublet?
Yes, you must request written permission. Use Form RTB-3 and allow reasonable time for your landlord to respond. - What should I do if my rental becomes uninhabitable due to a flood or fire?
Immediately notify the landlord, document everything, and contact the RTB. You may apply for early termination or compensation. - Where can I find help with rental issues outside of standard situations?
Start with the RTB or your local tenant association. Resources are listed below.
How To: Key Steps for Manitoba Tenants in Special Situations
- How do I apply to sublet or assign my tenancy?
Fill out Form RTB-3, send it to your landlord, and wait for a written response. If denied unfairly, apply to the RTB for dispute resolution. - How can I break my lease due to emergency or family violence?
Complete Form RTB-21. Provide supporting documentation if required and submit to the RTB with written notice to your landlord. - How do I dispute improper eviction/termination after a sale?
Gather the notice you received and file Form RTB-16 with the RTB to request a hearing. - How should I document emergency situations?
Take photos, keep copies of all communications, and maintain a written timeline of problems and responses. - What steps should I take before moving out in a special situation?
Give the required notice, do a final inspection, return keys, and request your deposit. This protects your rights and avoids disputes.
Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants
- Always use official RTB forms in special tenancy situations and keep copies.
- Subletting, early termination, and emergency actions require written steps—do not rely on verbal agreements alone.
- Know your legal rights by reviewing Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Main office for forms, complaints, and information.
- Manitoba RTB Official Forms
- Local tenant associations or advocacy centres in your area.
- If searching for new housing: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
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 & TenancyRelated Articles
- Avoiding Mistakes in Special Tenancy Situations: Manitoba Guide · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Step-by-Step Guidance for Special Tenancy Issues in Manitoba · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Special Tenancy Situations in Manitoba: Tenant Guide · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Legal Support for Special Tenancy Disputes in Manitoba · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Special Tenancy Situations: A Guide for New Manitoba Tenants · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Manitoba Tenant Rights in Special Tenancy Situations · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Special Tenancy Laws for Manitoba Tenants Explained · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Manitoba Tenant FAQs: Special Tenancy Situations Explained · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025
- Manitoba Tenant Guide to Special Tenancy Situations · July 01, 2025 July 01, 2025