What changed in 2025
The 2025 updates clarify notice requirements for rent changes and strengthen basic habitability expectations for landlords and tenants. Tenants now have clearer timelines for responding to notices and more explicit protections around essential services such as heat and hot water. When the legislation or government guidance is mentioned below, a link to the official source is provided so you can read the exact wording.[2]
Key tenant rights and responsibilities
Tenants have the right to a safe, livable home and must pay rent on time and keep the unit reasonably clean. Landlords must perform routine and emergency repairs and follow rules for entering a rental unit. Keep written records of all communications, copies of notices, receipts for rent and photos of problems to support any future disputes.
Security deposits and fees
Manitoba rules limit what landlords can take as deposits and when those amounts must be returned. Before you pay any deposit, ask for a written receipt and note the condition of the unit at move‑in. For a fuller explanation of how deposits work and the timeframe for returns, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Repairs, safety and inspections
If something breaks or affects habitability, notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy. For urgent issues like no heat or major leaks, tell the landlord immediately and follow up by email or text so there is a record. Routine repairs should be requested in writing so both parties have proof of the request and any response timeline.
- If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, document the delay and consider filing for dispute resolution.
- Take photos or video of the problem and keep receipts for any expenses you incur while waiting for repairs.
- Landlords must provide proper notice before entry unless there is an emergency.
Rent increases, notices and timelines
Rent increases must follow the rules set out in provincial legislation; notice periods and allowable timing differ depending on tenancy type. If you receive a notice of rent increase, check the date it takes effect and whether the notice meets the legal requirements. Respond in writing if you have questions and keep your response record.
- If you are given a notice, note the effective date and any deadlines to respond or apply for relief.
- If a notice seems incorrect or unfair, you can file an application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
How to file a complaint or dispute
Manitoba provides an online and paper process to ask for dispute resolution. The Residential Tenancies Branch handles most rental disputes and provides the forms you need on its website.[1] Typical steps include completing the correct form, attaching evidence, and paying any required fee or following fee waiver rules.
- Identify the correct form for your issue, such as a repair or wrongful eviction request.
- Attach photos, copies of notices and receipts that support your claim.
- File before any deadline listed on the notice and bring copies to your hearing if one is scheduled.
For common safety concerns and tenant obligations while living in a rental, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. If you are searching for a new place while checking laws, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you locate listings across provinces.
FAQ
- Can my landlord raise rent in the middle of a fixed lease?
- No. Rent increases generally cannot take effect until the lease term ends unless your lease or law specifically allows it; check the notice and seek dispute resolution if needed.
- What do I do if my landlord enters without notice?
- Document the date and time, tell the landlord in writing that you did not consent, and consider filing a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch if it happens again.
- How long will a dispute resolution hearing take?
- Hearing timelines vary but you should prepare evidence and expect to follow the Branch's scheduling; bring copies of all documents and a clear timeline of events.
How-To
- Gather documentation: collect photos, receipts, text messages and any written notices you have about the issue.
- Choose the correct form from the Residential Tenancies Branch forms page and complete it carefully.
- Submit the form online or by mail and include clear copies of your evidence.
- Attend the hearing or conference on the scheduled date and present your evidence in a clear timeline.
