Manitoba Tenant Guide: Dealing with Mould and Indoor Air Quality

Mould, dampness, and poor indoor air quality can be serious issues for renters in Manitoba. Whether you spot black patches on the wall or notice persistent musty smells, these conditions can harm your health and well-being. Fortunately, as a tenant, you have rights and options to ensure your rental is safe and liveable under Manitoba's rental laws. This guide explains your rights, what you can expect from your landlord, and practical action steps to help you resolve indoor air quality concerns.

Understanding Mould and Indoor Air Quality Risks

Mould thrives in moist environments and can appear where there is water intrusion or excess humidity (such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or around leaking windows). Prolonged exposure can worsen allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. Manitoba sets clear health standards to protect tenants from these hazards.

• Visible mould growth or strong odours often suggest underlying problems (like water leaks).
• Unaddressed mould or poor ventilation may violate health and minimum maintenance standards.

If you’re concerned about health-related hazards in your rental, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for an overview of common risks and next steps.

Your Rights and Landlord's Responsibilities in Manitoba

According to The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), landlords must keep rental units in a state that meets health, safety, and housing standards at all times¹. This includes addressing mould, water leaks, and indoor air quality concerns.

• Landlords are responsible for structural repairs, proper ventilation, plumbing, windows, and addressing building leaks causing mould.
• Tenants are expected to ventilate units and report problems as soon as they notice them.

Learn more about landlord and tenant duties in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Raise a Mould or Air Quality Issue

If you find mould or suspect an air quality problem, follow these steps:

• Document the concern: Take photos/videos and write down what you observe.
• Inform your landlord in writing: Give a clear description and reasonable time for repairs (usually in accordance with your lease or Manitoba guidelines).
• Keep copies of all correspondence: Save all letters, emails, and replies.
• If there is no response or the issue remains unresolved, escalate the matter by contacting Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch.

Filing a Complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba is the official body overseeing tenant and landlord matters related to health and maintenance standards. If your landlord does not address the mould or indoor air quality problem in a reasonable time, you can apply to the RTB for an order to remedy the situation.

Key Forms for Tenants

• Application for an Order of Possession or to Remedy (Form 8):
  • When to use: If you want the RTB to order your landlord to fix a problem such as mould, water leaks, or unsafe conditions.
  • Example: You reported a mould problem two weeks ago and your landlord has not responded. You can file this form to request intervention.
  • Official source: Application for an Order
• Request for Inspection (contact the RTB):
  • When to use: If you think your home is unsafe or does not meet minimum standards, you may request an inspection through the RTB.
  • Example: You have persistent indoor mould and want an official to inspect and document the issue.
  • Contact the RTB for instructions

Processing times can vary. The RTB can direct your landlord to complete repairs, order rent reductions, or allow you to terminate your lease if the problem is severe.

Related Manitoba Law

• The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)

For more details about your local rights and obligations, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Tips for Preventing Mould and Maintaining Good Air Quality

While landlords must handle major repairs and provide safe conditions, you can help prevent mould by:

• Using bathroom/kitchen fans and opening windows when possible to reduce humidity.
• Reporting leaks, water damage, or faulty ventilation right away.
• Cleaning minor surface mould with household cleaners (for light mildew on bathroom grout, for example), but do not attempt major remediation yourself—this is your landlord’s job.

For more on rental problems, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

What If the Problem Persists?

If repairs are not made, and your health is at risk, the RTB can help enforce your rights. In some severe cases, you may be entitled to a rent reduction or the right to end your lease early. It’s important to follow the correct complaint process and keep copies of all communications.

If you're considering a new rental due to air quality concerns, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and secure a healthier home environment.

FAQ: Mould and Indoor Air Quality for Manitoba Tenants

1. What should I do first if I discover mould in my rental? Immediately notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy for your records. Document the mould with photos. Give your landlord a reasonable time to respond or fix the issue before escalating to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
2. Who pays for mould removal in Manitoba rentals? Generally, your landlord must arrange and pay for mould remediation caused by building defects, leaks, or lack of maintenance. However, tenants are responsible for routine cleaning and proper ventilation to prevent minor mildew.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't fix mould problems? No, you should not withhold rent on your own. Instead, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch. The RTB may order a rent reduction or repairs, but taking action without a formal order could risk eviction.
4. Is my landlord allowed to end my tenancy for complaining about mould? No. Manitoba law protects tenants from retaliation when they assert their right to a safe, healthy home. If you believe you are being evicted or harassed for making a complaint, contact the RTB for advice.
5. How do I request an official inspection? Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch by phone, email, or in person to ask about requesting an inspection. They may provide a specific form or guide you through the process step by step.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Landlords must address mould, leaks, and indoor air quality issues under Manitoba law.
• Report problems to your landlord in writing first, then escalate to the RTB if needed.
• Know your rights: you do not have to live in unsafe conditions or accept retaliation for speaking up.

Addressing mould and indoor air quality early keeps your rental safe. Learn more about tenant protections and housing standards in Manitoba to ensure your health and legal security.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba – File complaints, forms, or get advice.
• RTB Forms and Publications – Download all official tenancy forms.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba – Quick fact sheet for your legal rights and contact details.
• Manitoba Health: Mould Information – Prevention, health impacts, and more.
• For rental options in healthier buildings, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

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1. See The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch official tenant complaint procedures.
3. Application for an Order (Form 8), RTB.
4. Manitoba Health: Mould and Air Quality.

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