If you use assistive devices or need changes to your rental home for accessibility, knowing how deposits and modification requests work in Manitoba helps protect your rights as a tenant. This guide explains the practical steps renters should take when asking for accessibility-related changes, what landlords can and cannot lawfully require, and which official forms and offices to contact if a dispute arises. It is written for Manitoba tenants and renters who want clear, step-by-step advice on requesting accommodations, documenting agreements about deposits or alterations, and pursuing dispute resolution while staying within provincial rules.
What the law says in Manitoba
Manitoba tenancy and human rights laws require accommodation for disabilities and prohibit discriminatory terms in tenancy agreements. The Residential Tenancies Branch administers tenancy issues and provides guidance for deposits and repairs.[1] The provincial Residential Tenancies Act defines landlord and tenant obligations for deposits, returns, and dispute processes.[2] The Manitoba Human Rights Commission enforces accommodation duties when disability or accessibility needs are involved.[3]
Can a landlord charge an extra "accessibility" deposit?
Generally, landlords cannot charge a deposit or higher rent solely because a tenant has a disability. Any requirement that singles out tenants with accessibility needs risks being discriminatory under human rights law. However, landlords can request a reasonable security measure where a proposed alteration could cause damage; that measure must be reasonable, clearly connected to the actual risk, and applied consistently.
If you want modifications, how to propose them
Follow clear steps when requesting changes so both parties understand expectations and any financial arrangements.
- Request accommodation in writing with the date you need the change by and any supporting medical or accessibility details.
- Include a brief description of the modification and whether you propose to pay for the work, have it paid by a third party, or request the landlord to fund it.
- If asked to provide a deposit for potential restoration or damage, ask for a clear, itemized agreement about the amount, purpose, and how it will be returned.
- Keep copies of all correspondence, receipts for work done, and photos showing the condition before and after the modification.
Practical examples and payment arrangements
If you can pay up front for an accessible shower or a ramp, agree in writing who owns the fixture, whether it must be removed at the end of tenancy, and whether a refundable deposit is required to guarantee restoration. If the landlord requires a deposit tied to potential damage, make sure the amount is proportional and that the agreement specifies allowable deductions and timelines for repayment.
When to bring a dispute to the Residential Tenancies Branch
If you and your landlord cannot agree about a deposit, restoration obligations, or whether the request is a reasonable accommodation, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution. The Branch handles disagreements about deposits and tenancy conditions and explains the evidence needed, timelines, and hearing procedures.[1]
How landlords typically handle restoration and deposits
Common lawful approaches include a refundable restoration deposit, a written restoration agreement, or the tenant agreeing to remove alterations at the end of tenancy. Any financial security must be documented and processed in line with the Residential Tenancies Act and branch guidance.[2]
Internal resources related to deposits and Manitoba rights
For a plain-language primer on security and damage deposits see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. For provincial context on rights and responsibilities, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse an accessibility modification request?
- A landlord must consider and, where reasonable, accommodate requests for accessibility modifications; refusal must not be discriminatory and should be explained in writing with alternatives considered.
- Can a landlord require a deposit specifically because I need an accessible feature?
- No. Charging extra solely because of a tenant's disability can be discriminatory. Reasonable, proportionate deposits tied to actual risk for property damage may be requested if documented and agreed to in writing.
- What if my landlord won’t return a restoration deposit or agrees to deductions I dispute?
- Document the condition, ask for an itemized list of deductions, and if unresolved apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution with your evidence.
How-To
- Write a clear accommodation request describing the accessibility need, proposed modification, and timeline.
- Attach any medical or occupational therapist notes and propose contractors or cost estimates if you have them.
- If a deposit is suggested, ask for a written agreement that explains the amount, allowed deductions, and when it will be returned.
- Keep dated photos and receipts before, during, and after work to support any future claim.
- If the landlord refuses or demands unreasonable terms, file for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch and include all documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords cannot impose discriminatory deposit requirements because of disability.
- Always document accommodation requests and any deposit or restoration agreement in writing.
- Use dispute resolution at the Residential Tenancies Branch if you cannot resolve disagreements.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Residential Tenancies Branch
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- [3] Manitoba Human Rights Commission
