Recording RTB Hearings: Can Tenants in Manitoba Record?

Tenants in Manitoba often wonder whether they can record hearings before the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch. This guide explains practical steps renters can take to ask permission, preserve evidence and follow tribunal rules so recordings — if allowed — help a tenant’s case. It covers when to notify the other party, how to prepare and submit recordings or transcripts, which official forms to use, and what to do if a hearing officer refuses permission. The information is written for tenants, not lawyers, and points to Manitoba RTB resources and legislation you can consult before a hearing. Also included are quick action steps you can follow on the day of the hearing and tips on preserving privacy.

Can I record an RTB hearing in Manitoba?

There is no single automatic right to record an RTB hearing. The Residential Tenancies Branch sets procedures for hearings and a hearing officer may limit or prohibit recordings to protect privacy or the fairness of the process^[1]. You should check the Branch rules and relevant legislation before assuming you can record^[2]. For an overview of tenant and landlord rights in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

How to ask permission and prepare

Follow these steps to ask for permission and make recordings useful if the RTB allows them.

• Request permission from the hearing officer before the hearing.
• Contact the other party to tell them you intend to record and seek their consent.
• Gather supporting evidence such as timestamped photos, written notes and backups of audio or video files.
• File any recordings or transcripts with the RTB only if the officer permits and follow the Branchs submission process.

Official forms and how tenants use them

The RTB provides official forms for applications, responses and notices. When in doubt, use the RTB forms page for the correct document and instructions^[3].

• Application for Dispute Resolution (name shown on the RTB site). Use this to start a claim about unpaid rent, repairs or other tenancy issues; for example, a tenant who wants the RTB to order repairs and accept a recording as supporting evidence would use this application to begin the process.
• Response to an Application / Tenant Response (as listed on the RTB site). Tenants use this to reply to an application; include a clear statement that you asked permission to record and attach any permitted transcripts or copies.
• Notice to End a Tenancy / Notices (RTB forms). These notices are used in specific end-of-tenancy situations; if a recording relates to a notice dispute, reference the notice and include permitted evidence when you file.

Privacy and evidence rules

Recordings can raise privacy issues for participants and witnesses. Even if a tenant can lawfully record, the hearing officer decides whether to accept audio or video as evidence. Always confirm both tribunal procedure and any applicable privacy rules in Manitoba before recording, and avoid sharing recordings publicly without consent^[2].

If the RTB or a party objects

If the hearing officer or another party objects to a recording, you can still protect your case in other ways.

• Ask to adjourn or to submit a written statement if the recording is disallowed.
• Rely on other evidence: dated photos, logs, witnesses and receipts.
• Request a clear, written ruling from the officer on whether the recording may be accepted later.

If you need tenant-focused guidance about filing complaints or preparing for hearings, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide.

FAQ

Can I record an RTB hearing without telling anyone?

No. You should ask the hearing officer first and notify the other party; secret recordings can be excluded or lead to objections.

Will the RTB accept a recording as evidence?

That depends on the hearing officer and the way the recording was obtained; always ask permission and be prepared with alternate evidence.

Which official form should I use to make a complaint to the RTB?

Use the RTBs Application for Dispute Resolution and follow the filing instructions on the RTB forms page.

How-To

1. Check RTB rules and required forms.
2. Ask the hearing officer for permission before the hearing.
3. Notify the other party and seek their consent.
4. Gather evidence: photos, timestamps, and written notes.
5. If allowed, submit copies of the recording or transcript to the RTB.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba)
• Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
• RTB forms and filing instructions

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Branch - Province of Manitoba
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
3. [3] RTB forms and filing instructions