Move-Out Inspection Rights for Tenants in Manitoba

When your tenancy is coming to an end in Manitoba, it's important to understand your rights regarding a move-out inspection. A move-out inspection helps make sure any issues related to cleanliness or damage are resolved fairly. This process protects your interests, especially when it comes to your security deposit, and ensures that both you and your landlord are clear about the rental's condition upon move-out.

What Is a Move-Out Inspection?

A move-out inspection is a walkthrough of your rental unit, conducted with your landlord present at the end of your tenancy. It's intended to document the condition of the property and compare it to how it looked when you first moved in. Manitoba law gives tenants the right to be present, ensuring the process is transparent and fair for everyone involved.

Why the Inspection Matters for Tenants

• It provides an objective record of the property’s condition.
• Helps prevent unfair charges for repairs or cleaning.
• Protects your eligibility for a full security deposit refund.

Conducting a move-out inspection is not just best practice—it's your legal right under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)¹.

The Inspection Process: What You Need to Know

Both tenants and landlords should ideally be present during the inspection. The landlord must offer you at least one reasonable opportunity to attend. If your landlord doesn’t perform the inspection or doesn’t invite you, it may affect their right to claim deductions from your deposit.

• When: The inspection usually takes place on or near the day you move out.
• Notice: Your landlord must let you know in advance about the date and time.
• Documentation: An Inspection Report is filled out, noting any damage, missing items, or cleaning required. Both you and your landlord should sign this report.

Official Forms in Manitoba

Manitoba uses a standardized form for move-out inspections:

• Condition Report (Residential) – found on the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) website.
  Download the Condition Report (Residential)

When to Use: Complete this report during both the move-in and move-out inspections.
Example: When you move out, walk through the unit with your landlord, fill out the form together, and both sign it to confirm agreement.

Security Deposit Considerations

The move-out inspection is directly linked to your security deposit refund. You can learn more about the deposit process in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. If damages are found that are beyond normal wear and tear, your landlord may claim part of your deposit. Without a completed inspection, it’s harder for a landlord to justify withholding money.

Disputes After the Inspection

If you disagree with deductions from your deposit or the landlord’s assessment of damages, you have options:

• Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), which handles all disputes for residential tenancies in Manitoba.
• File a dispute resolution application using the Application for Order of the Director (Form RTB-12). Get Form RTB-12

Practical example: If your landlord withholds your deposit, you can submit Form RTB-12 to the RTB for a fair review.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Issues

If you have a disability or need accommodations for the inspection (for example, needing more time for notice, or requesting alternate methods to participate), you can request these from your landlord. Manitoba’s law requires landlords to accommodate reasonable needs without discrimination. If you believe you have been unfairly treated or your request for accommodation was denied, you can file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

Want a Successful Move-Out?

For tips on ensuring a smooth process, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

To compare laws across Canada or for other Manitoba-related tenant rights, check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Looking for a new place after moving out? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with simple search tools and map views.

1. Can my landlord do the move-out inspection without me?
   Landlords must give tenants at least one opportunity to be present. If you choose not to attend or can’t make the proposed time, your landlord may conduct the inspection alone, but must provide notice. However, your participation gives you more control over the process.
2. What if my landlord refuses to do a move-out inspection?
   If the landlord doesn’t complete an inspection, it may limit their right to claim deductions from your security deposit. You should document the unit’s condition yourself (with photos), and contact the RTB if needed.
3. Do I have to fix every minor issue before moving out?
   Tenants are responsible for cleaning and any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Reasonable wear and tear (like minor carpet fading) is not your responsibility to repair.
4. How soon will I get my deposit back?
   In Manitoba, landlords must return the deposit (minus any proper deductions) within 14 days after the tenancy ends and possession is returned.
5. What if I disagree with damage claims?
   File a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Branch using Form RTB-12 and provide your own evidence, such as photos and inspection reports.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always attend your move-out inspection, if possible, to protect your rights and deposit.
• Use Manitoba’s official Condition Report and ask for a signed copy.
• Document everything, and know you can dispute unfair claims through the RTB.

Staying informed and prepared ensures your rental exit is fair and stress-free.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch – Manitoba: Tenant/landlord dispute resolution, inspections, and official forms.
• Manitoba Human Rights Commission: Discrimination or accessibility complaints.
• For personalized assistance, contact local tenant advocacy organizations or legal clinics in Manitoba.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)

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