Mold, Pests, and Health Hazards: Manitoba Tenant Guide

If you’re moving into—or already living in—a rental home in Manitoba, health hazards like mold, bed bugs, or pests may quickly become a concern. Manitoba law protects tenants’ right to a safe, healthy living environment. In this guide, we explain what to watch for, how to get help with hazards, and your resources for clean, safe housing.

What Are Health Hazards in Manitoba Rentals?

Health hazards can include:

• Mold: Moisture issues leading to visible or hidden mold, which can trigger allergies or asthma.
• Pests: Infestations from bed bugs, cockroaches, mice, or other vermin.
• Other hazards: Unsafe drinking water, broken heating, or structural issues creating unsafe conditions.

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) oversees tenant and landlord disputes and upholds your housing rights in Manitoba.

Landlord & Tenant Responsibilities

Under Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act, landlords must ensure rentals meet health, safety, and repair standards. This means:

• Before you move in: The home must be clean, pest-free, and free from hazards.
• During your tenancy: Repairs to leaks, ventilation, pest infestations, or mold are generally the landlord’s job (unless you caused the issue).
• Tenants: Must keep the unit reasonably clean and report problems quickly.

Read more on Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for practical tips.

Common Hazards: Mold, Bed Bugs & Pests

Mold can grow anywhere moisture is trapped—kitchens, bathrooms, basements, or around windows. Bed bugs and roaches are common in multi-unit buildings and can spread quickly. Mice and other vermin may enter through small cracks.

Frequent complaints include:

• Musty smells, spots on walls or ceilings, or condensation
• Bites, droppings, or pest sightings
• Prolonged cold, inadequate heat, or poor ventilation

What to Do If You Find Hazards

If you suspect mold or see pests, act quickly to ensure your home stays livable. Here’s what to do:

• Document the problem: Take photos, note dates, and collect evidence.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Describe the issue clearly. In many cases, a simple email or letter works—but keep a copy.
• Give your landlord time to fix it: Manitoba law allows reasonable time for repairs or pest control.

When Your Landlord Doesn’t Respond

If your landlord refuses or delays repairs and the hazard affects your health or safety, you can formally request help from the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB).

• Fill out the Request for Repairs form (Form RTB-11): Download RTB-11
• Example: If you report black mold in your bathroom and your landlord doesn’t fix it within a reasonable period, submit RTB-11 describing the issue and showing your communications.

For urgent hazards like a burst pipe, broken heater in winter, or major infestation, you may request an expedited hearing. Visit the RTB website for details: Official RTB Forms List.

Explore more about how to Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions for step-by-step pest action guidance.

Moving In and Out: What Should You Check?

Whether just starting a lease or preparing to move out, always inspect for hazards:

• Use the Initial Inspection Report (Form RTB-27): Download RTB-27
• Note any water damage, stains, odors, or visible pests on your inspection form.
• Take photos and document everything—this protects you if there’s a dispute about damages or repairs.

Find guidance in the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for a full moving-in checklist.

You can also learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for provincial rules and specific protections.

Key Legislation and Official Contacts

• Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba
• Tribunal/Board: Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba (RTB)

If you’re searching for a new or safer home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme using map views and filters that suit your needs.

1. Can my landlord make me pay for pest removal or mold cleanup?
   In Manitoba, landlords are responsible for pest control and major repairs unless you or your guests caused the problem through negligence or misuse.
2. Do I have to move out if my home is unsafe due to hazards?
   Not immediately. Report unsafe conditions to your landlord and the RTB. Only move if ordered by Manitoba Health or another official agency.
3. What if I get sick from mold or pests in my rental?
   Document your symptoms and seek medical attention. Keep copies of everything, as you may need this evidence when making a complaint or applying for repairs via the RTB.
4. Who do I contact for urgent health and safety concerns in my rental?
   First, inform your landlord. If unresolved, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch or your local Public Health Inspector.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Landlords must provide safe, healthy, and habitable rentals—this includes addressing mold, pests, and serious hazards.
• Document problems and alert your landlord in writing as soon as you notice an issue.
• If repairs are delayed, use official forms and reach out to the RTB for help protecting your rights.

Health and safety in Manitoba rentals are your right. Stay proactive and informed to keep your home secure.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): File complaints, request repairs, or get mediation.
• Manitoba Environmental Health: For urgent public health issues in your building.
• Consumer Protection Division – Manitoba: For further advocacy, support, and education.
• Tenant organizations such as the Right to Housing Coalition can provide additional advice and workshops.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba: View legislation here
2. Residential Tenancies Branch official site: Visit RTB Manitoba
3. RTB-11: Request for Repairs form: Download form
4. RTB-27: Initial Inspection Report: Download form

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