Moving In and Out: Manitoba Tenant Rights Explained

Starting or ending a rental in Manitoba? Moving can be stressful, but understanding your rights and responsibilities makes things smoother. This guide is tailored for tenants in Manitoba facing moves, whether you're preparing to settle into a new home or getting ready to leave your current one. Let's walk through what you need to know about deposits, inspections, paperwork, and legal protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)^[1].

Before You Move In: Key Steps for New Tenants

Starting fresh in a new rental is exciting. Here’s what every Manitoba tenant should do before moving in:

• Sign a written tenancy agreement. Review all terms and ask questions about anything unclear.
• Pay your security deposit (up to 50% of one month's rent).
• Complete an initial move-in inspection with your landlord.
• Request copies of the signed lease and inspection report for your records.

The Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home page has a full checklist, helping you start your tenancy on the right foot.

Your Security Deposit

A security deposit is standard in Manitoba and helps cover unpaid rent or damage at the end of your tenancy. For more details, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Move-In Inspection Report

It's a legal requirement for Manitoba landlords and tenants to complete a Move-In Condition Report.

• When: Upon moving in, before or on the date you take possession.
• How: Walk through the unit with your landlord, documenting the condition of walls, appliances, floors, etc.
• Form to use: Move-In/Move-Out Condition Report (Residential Tenancies Branch). Download here.
  Example: If you notice any scratches or damage, write it down and take photos for your records.

Both you and your landlord should sign this form, and you must receive a copy. This step protects you from being blamed for prior damages.

While Living in Your Rental: Maintaining Your Rights and Responsibilities

Once moved in, tenants in Manitoba have clear rights and responsibilities. Pay rent on time, maintain reasonable cleanliness, and promptly report repairs. Landlords must make sure your rental is safe and habitable.

Tip: Read the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba page for a full overview of local rules and protections.

Getting Ready to Move Out: Vital Steps

Planning a move-out? Here’s what you should know to avoid issues:

• Give proper notice: You must submit written notice according to your lease—usually one rental period for month-to-month, or as stated in your agreement.
• Schedule a final inspection: Complete a move-out inspection report with your landlord. This protects your deposit and documents the property's condition.
• Return the keys and provide a forwarding address.

Want specific advice? Check our Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Move-Out Inspection and Security Deposit Refunds

Before you leave, complete the Move-Out Condition Report using the official form. This process is similar to the move-in inspection, documenting any changes to the unit. To get your deposit back, make sure:

• The unit is as clean as when you moved in (ordinary wear and tear is acceptable)
• There is no unpaid rent or damages outside normal wear

Helpful Manitoba Tenancy Forms and When to Use Them

• Notice of Termination – Tenant to Landlord (RTB Form 2A): Use this to give proper written notice when ending your tenancy. Get the form.
• Move-In/Move-Out Condition Report: Record the condition at the start and end of your tenancy. Get the form.
• Request for Return of Security Deposit (if needed): If your deposit is not returned, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba to file a claim.

Each form is also available in-person at a local Residential Tenancies Branch office.

Summary of Manitoba’s Tenancy Laws

Tenancy in Manitoba is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act. This legislation sets the standards for deposits, notices, repairs, privacy, and dispute resolution.

For available rentals, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice do I need to give before moving out in Manitoba?
   Typically, tenants must give at least one rental period's notice (one month for month-to-month rentals) using the appropriate form.
2. Can I get my security deposit back if everything is clean and undamaged?
   Yes, if the unit is left clean (except normal wear), you have no rent owing, and complete a move-out inspection, your deposit must be returned—often within 14 days.
3. What happens if my landlord doesn’t do a move-in or move-out inspection?
   Both inspections should be done, but if your landlord refuses, document the condition yourself (with photos and written notes) and inform the Residential Tenancies Branch.
4. Am I responsible for repairs when moving out?
   Tenants are only responsible for damages beyond everyday wear and tear. Routine repairs or maintenance from normal living are not your responsibility.
5. Who can help me if my landlord keeps my deposit unfairly?
   The Residential Tenancies Branch can mediate or help you file a claim to recover your deposit.

How To: Steps for a Smooth Move-Out in Manitoba

1. How to properly give notice when moving out:
   Fill out the Notice of Termination (RTB Form 2A), sign it, and deliver it to your landlord according to your lease terms.
2. How to complete a Move-Out Condition Report:
   Meet your landlord at the property, walk through the unit together with the official condition report, note any changes, and ensure both parties sign it.
3. How to request your security deposit back:
   If the landlord hasn’t returned your deposit after 14 days, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch and use their dispute process to claim your deposit.

Key Takeaways

• Always document the condition of your rental at move-in and move-out using the official inspection forms.
  
• Give proper written notice to your landlord following your lease and Manitoba law.
• Know your legal rights—the Residential Tenancies Branch is there to help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba) – official government agency for rental disputes, inspections, and forms
• Manitoba Tenant Services—Legal Help
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, C.C.S.M. c. R119 (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (Government of Manitoba)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy