Protecting Your Digital Privacy as a Tenant in Manitoba

Tenants in Manitoba have strong rights when it comes to privacy in their homes, including digital privacy. Today’s landlords may use keyless entry, smart cameras, Wi-Fi-enabled devices, or want access to your personal data. Understanding your legal protections and how to address digital overreach is essential for peace of mind and security.

Digital Privacy and Your Rental Home in Manitoba

With new technologies in rental homes, questions about what landlords can legally access or monitor are more important than ever. Manitoba law protects tenants from most forms of unauthorized surveillance or collection of personal information.

What is Digital Overreach by a Landlord?

Digital overreach happens when a landlord uses technology to access, monitor, or collect information about a tenant without their consent. This includes:

• Installing security cameras inside your unit without permission
• Collecting Wi-Fi or smart device data about your usage
• Demanding access codes or passwords to smart locks or alarms
• Retaining personal identification, like government ID photos, beyond what's required for tenancy

These actions can violate your privacy rights granted under both The Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba^[1] and provincial privacy laws.

Your Rights to Privacy in Manitoba Rentals

Under Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act, tenants have the right to enjoy their rental without unreasonable disturbance or entry. This also applies to digital privacy:

• Landlords cannot use technology to monitor or record you inside your unit.
• Surveillance cameras can only be placed in common areas and cannot invade your private space.
• Landlords must obtain your written consent before collecting or sharing any personal digital data.
• Access to your rental (physical or digital) requires proper notice except in emergencies.

If a landlord is using smart home devices or cameras, they should inform you in writing and follow all privacy guidelines. Manitoba’s privacy laws may also apply when handling any electronic information about tenants.

When Can a Landlord Enter or Access Your Unit (Physically or Digitally)?

Generally, a landlord in Manitoba must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental home (except in emergencies). This notice should state the reason, date, and time of entry. Digital access – such as changing codes on smart locks or accessing in-unit cameras – is treated similarly to physical entry and requires tenant knowledge and legal justification.

To learn more about overall landlord and tenant obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. For legislation details, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Forms and Complaint Process: What To Do If Your Digital Privacy Is Violated

If you believe your landlord is violating your digital privacy, you have several options. Manitoba tenants can file a written complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba.

• Form Name: Tenant’s Application for Order of Remedy
• Form Number: RTB Form 18
• Use: This form is used when a tenant needs an order from the RTB, such as requiring a landlord to stop unauthorized digital surveillance or access.
• Where to get it: Tenant’s Application for Order of Remedy (Form 18)
• Example: If your landlord installs a smart camera inside your apartment without consent, you can fill out Form 18 to ask the RTB to order its removal and stop further digital intrusion.

Gather evidence such as photographs, communication records, and copies of any notices. Submit your form and evidence to the RTB by mail, email, in person, or online via the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Tips to Protect Your Digital Privacy

Discuss digital privacy before signing a lease. For a full overview of what is expected after signing, check What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For renters seeking new homes, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and protect your privacy from the very start!

Frequently Asked Questions: Manitoba Tenants & Digital Privacy

1. Can my landlord install cameras inside my rental unit?
   In almost all cases, no. Landlords cannot put cameras or surveillance equipment inside your private living space. Cameras are only permitted in common areas for legitimate safety reasons and with proper notification.
2. Is my landlord allowed to collect Wi-Fi or smart device usage data?
   No, a landlord cannot access or collect data from your installed devices or internet use inside your rental without your clear, written consent.
3. What should I do if my landlord accesses my smart lock or changes codes without telling me?
   Document what happened and immediately contact the landlord. If not resolved, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch using Form 18.
4. Do privacy protections change if I'm sharing a rental home (e.g., roommate situation)?
   Your individual right to privacy still applies. Landlords may not enter bedrooms or personal areas or install unauthorized devices, regardless of shared living arrangements.
5. Where can I learn about my general rights as a Manitoba tenant?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a broad overview of your rights and responsibilities.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Your digital and personal privacy is protected under Manitoba law.
• Landlords must notify and get consent for any digital access or monitoring.
• Use RTB Form 18 to report and resolve digital privacy violations.
• Stay informed about privacy terms before and after signing your tenancy agreement.

Safeguard your privacy and take action if you believe your rights are being infringed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) – General information, forms, and complaints
• Tenant’s Application for Order of Remedy (Form 18)
• Manitoba Ombudsman – Advice on privacy issues: https://www.ombudsman.mb.ca/
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
• Local tenant advocacy groups and community legal clinics for additional support

---

1. The Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB)
3. Tenant's Application for Order of Remedy (Form 18)

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