It's important for tenants in Manitoba to know when and how their landlord can legally enter their rental unit. As a tenant, you have the right to privacy in your home. This article explains entry notice requirements in Manitoba, your protections, and what to do if your landlord does not follow the law.
Who Oversees Rental Issues in Manitoba?
Residential tenancy matters are handled by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba. The key law is the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).[1]
When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?
In Manitoba, your landlord can only enter your unit in certain situations as outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act. These include:
- You have given your consent for a specific time
- To perform repairs or inspect the property
- To show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or mortgagees
- In the event of an emergency
- To check if you have abandoned the premises
Most of the time, your landlord must provide advance written notice before entering.
Required Notice for Entry
Under Manitoba law, a landlord must provide a minimum of 24 hours written notice before entering your rental unit, except in emergencies or if you agree to less notice.
- Notice must state the date, purpose, and time of entry (which must fall between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.)
- Written notice can be delivered in person or by placing it in your mailbox, under your door, or in another secure location
- For showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers, the same 24-hour notice applies
- In emergencies (like a fire or water leak), the landlord can enter without notice
If you're concerned about health or maintenance issues, check out our guide on Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. Ensuring repairs are addressed can sometimes require scheduled landlord entry.
Entry Without Proper Notice: What to Do
If your landlord enters without proper notice or at unreasonable times, you have the right to file a complaint with the RTB. This may also be considered interference with your right to quiet enjoyment of your home.
Relevant Official Forms
- Application for an Order of Possession or Other Remedies (Residential Tenancies Branch Form 7):
This form allows tenants to request an official order from the RTB if a landlord is not following entry rules, or if you need to assert your right to quiet enjoyment.
Access the RTB Forms page. Example: If your landlord repeatedly enters without providing proper notice, you can use this form to complain.
Summary of Manitoba Entry Notice Rules
- Minimum 24 hours written notice is required unless it’s an emergency or you consent to less
- Entry must be between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. unless you agree otherwise
- Notice must state the purpose, date, and time of entry
- Serious or repeated violations can be reported to the RTB
If you want to read more on your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, refer to Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Legislation and Your Privacy Rights
For the exact legal text, review Section 19 of the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba). This section protects your right to privacy and explains the entry procedures in detail. For more information on tenant and landlord rights specific to your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Does my landlord always need to give written notice before entering?
Yes, unless it's an emergency or you agreed to other arrangements. Written notice of at least 24 hours is required under Manitoba law. - Can a landlord enter my unit for repairs if I am not home?
Yes, if they've given you 24 hours written notice and entry is during the permitted hours (8 a.m. - 9 p.m.). - What should I do if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
Document each incident and contact the Residential Tenancies Branch. You can also file an application using the proper RTB form. - Are there exceptions to the 24-hour notice rule?
Yes. Emergencies (like fire, flooding, or urgent repairs) allow immediate entry without notice. - Can I refuse my landlord entry?
You must allow entry for legal reasons if proper notice is given. Unreasonably denying entry can violate your rental agreement.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Branch – Manitoba (inquiries, complaints, forms)
- Local Tenant Associations: Contact the Winnipeg Tenant Rights office for advocacy and support
- Manitoba Human Rights Commission: For issues of discrimination or human rights
- For details on your protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
