Notice Requirements for Rent Increases in Manitoba

If you’re renting in Manitoba and your landlord wants to raise your rent, it’s important to know your rights and the legal steps they must follow. This article explains the notice requirements for rent increases, the official forms involved, and where Manitoba tenants can turn for help.

Who Sets Rent Increase Rules in Manitoba?

In Manitoba, rent increases for most residential tenancies are governed by The Residential Tenancies Act. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the official provincial authority handling rent increases, rental disputes, and tenant-landlord issues.

How Much Notice Is Required for a Rent Increase?

Landlords in Manitoba must provide you with at least three months’ written notice before increasing your rent. This is a legal minimum and applies to most rental situations, including apartments, houses, and mobile homes. The notice must clearly state:

• Your unit’s address
• The current rent amount
• The proposed new rent amount
• The date the increase will take effect

This notice must be given using the official Notice of Rent Increase form (Form RTB-7), which ensures all required details are included and valid.

Exceptions and Rules You Should Know

• Rent increases are allowed only once every 12 months for the same unit, regardless of who lives there.
• Units built after March 7, 2005, may be exempt from rent increase guidelines. Check your lease or ask the RTB if unsure.
• If you live in subsidized housing or have a rent-geared-to-income agreement, different notice rules may apply. Always verify with your housing provider or the RTB.

For more background on what happens after you sign your lease or move in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Step-by-Step: What Happens When Your Landlord Wants to Raise the Rent?

• Landlord prepares and delivers the Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7): This must be hand-delivered or sent by mail or email (if you’ve agreed to that in writing).
• You receive the notice: Double-check the effective date and new rent amount. Make sure you’ve been given at least 3 months' notice.
• If you believe the increase is unfair or the process wasn’t followed: You can apply to the RTB to object to the rent increase within 60 days of receiving notice.

Official Form: Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7)

Form Name: Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-7)
Where to Get It: Manitoba RTB Forms page
When to Use: Landlords use this form to give tenants notice about a future rent hike. For example, if your rent is $1,000 and will go up to $1,030 on July 1st, you must be given this notice by March 31st the same year.

Learn more about rent control and annual guidelines in Manitoba by visiting the official RTB page.

Disputing a Rent Increase

If you think the rent increase is above the guideline or not justified (for example, if your building is in poor condition), you have the right to object. Here’s how to take action:

• Complete the Application to Object to a Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-8)
• Submit it to the RTB within 60 days of receiving your rent increase notice
• The RTB will review your case and may hold a hearing

Find the application form on the RTB official forms page.

What If Your Landlord Doesn't Give Proper Notice?

If your landlord raises the rent without proper notice, or with less than 3 months’ warning, you do not have to pay the increased amount until the legal notice period has passed. For guidance on dealing with rent increases and your rights, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Where to Find More Manitoba Tenant Rights Information

To understand more about your rights as a tenant in Manitoba, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba. If you’re searching for a new place or planning your next move, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Manitoba Rent Increases

1. How much can my landlord increase my rent in Manitoba?
   Most years, the province sets a maximum annual rent increase guideline for residential tenancies, but some newer or exempt buildings may have different rules. Check the current guideline.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent multiple times in one year?
   No. In Manitoba, rent can only be increased once every 12 months for the same rental unit.
3. Do I have to accept a rent increase?
   If you believe the increase is unjustified, you may apply to the RTB to object within 60 days of notice.
4. What if I’m in a fixed-term lease?
   If your lease specifies rent for a fixed period, the rent usually can’t be changed until renewal—unless the agreement says otherwise.
5. Who do I contact if I need help with my rent increase notice?
   Reach out to the Residential Tenancies Branch for free information and support.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Landlords must give at least 3 months’ written notice for a rent increase using the official form.
• Your rent can’t be increased more than once a year, and you have the right to object.
• If you believe the proper process wasn't followed, contact the RTB for guidance or file a complaint.

Understanding your notice rights can help protect you from sudden or unlawful rent hikes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Handles disputes, complaints, and rent increase objections in Manitoba.
• Manitoba Families - Tenant Resources & Rights: Government support programs for tenants.
• RTB Official Forms Page: Download all required notices and applications.

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1. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act: current full text and regulations
2. Residential Tenancies Branch – Rent Increases: Annual Rent Increase Guideline
3. Application forms and complaint procedures: RTB Forms

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