Living in a rental in Manitoba means understanding hazards like radon and what renters can do to protect their health. This guide explains why radon matters in rental homes, how to test reliably, what landlords are generally expected to do about high levels, and practical steps tenants can take if their building shows elevated radon. It also points to the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch and the specific forms and legislation that often apply, so you know where to file a complaint or request repairs. The language is plain and focused on tenant rights, safety, and clear actions you can take right away if you suspect radon in your unit.
What is radon and why it matters
Radon is a naturally occurring, colourless, odourless gas that can accumulate indoors. Long-term exposure to elevated radon increases the risk of lung cancer. Health Canada recommends action when long-term average radon concentrations are 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³) or higher. Tenants should be aware of radon because it can build up in basements and lower levels where people sleep or spend time.
Testing and documenting radon
Testing is the only way to know radon levels. Use a long-term, approved test kit (three months or longer) placed in the lowest regularly used living area. Keep a written record of dates, kit placement, and results.
- Within 90 days: place a long-term radon kit in the lowest occupied level and leave it undisturbed for at least three months.
- Record the test start and end dates, keep photos of placement, and save the lab report as evidence.
- Share results in writing with your landlord and request mitigation if levels exceed the guideline.
Landlord responsibilities and tenant actions
In Manitoba landlords must maintain rental units in a state of repair and fit for habitation; this can include addressing environmental hazards like radon when levels are high. If your landlord is unresponsive, you can ask for repairs in writing and, if needed, apply to the provincial dispute body to request an order requiring remediation. For general tenant safety topics see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Steps tenants can take
- Within days: obtain a long-term radon test kit and start testing as soon as possible.
- Keep evidence: photos, lab reports, emails or letters to the landlord requesting mitigation.
- If test results are above guideline, request mitigation (sealed and ventilated solutions) in writing and set a reasonable deadline for action.
- If the landlord does not act, file an application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch to seek remediation or an order.
Legal basics specific to Manitoba
The provincial tribunal that handles residential tenancy disputes is the Residential Tenancies Branch [1]. The governing statute is the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), which sets out landlord and tenant obligations and the dispute process [2]. The Branch also publishes official forms for applications and notices; use the appropriate form when you request dispute resolution [3]. For a plain overview of tenant and landlord rights in this province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
FAQ
- How do I test my rental for radon?
- Buy or order an approved long-term radon test, place it on the lowest occupied level for at least 90 days, then record and share results with your landlord.
- Who is responsible for fixing high radon in Manitoba rentals?
- Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining habitability; tenants should ask for mitigation in writing and can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch if the landlord does not act.
- What level of radon requires action?
- Health authorities recommend action at or above 200 Bq/m³ as a long-term average; contact provincial public health for local guidance [4].
- What forms do I use to raise the issue?
- Use the Residential Tenancies Branch application forms to request dispute resolution or orders; keep copies of test results and written requests to the landlord when you submit the form.
How-To
- Order a certified long-term radon test kit and read placement instructions carefully.
- Place the kit in the lowest regularly used living space and record the placement date and location.
- Leave the kit in place for at least 90 days, then send it to the accredited lab and keep the report.
- Share the results with your landlord in writing and request mitigation if levels are at or above the guideline.
- If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, submit the appropriate application to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
Help and Support / Resources
- Call the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute and application guidance [1].
- Contact Manitoba Health for provincial radon information and the recommended action level [4].
If you decide to look for alternative housing while resolving a radon issue, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
