Recovering Damage Deposit After Eviction in Manitoba

Being evicted can be stressful, but if you believe your landlord wrongly withheld your damage deposit in Manitoba you have steps to pursue a refund. This guide explains what tenants and renters should do after eviction, including gathering move‑out photos, receipts and inspection reports, checking timelines for claims, and completing the right Residential Tenancies Branch forms. It also points to the tribunal, the legislation that governs deposits, and realistic options if your landlord deducts for repairs or unpaid rent. Follow practical, tenant-focused steps for documenting damage, asking for itemized deductions, filing a dispute, and preparing for a hearing so you can protect your deposit and your rights.

Understanding your rights in Manitoba

Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch is the place to start^[1]. The Residential Tenancies Act sets rules about deposits and deductions^[2]. If you were evicted, the landlord must give an itemized statement of deductions and return any remaining deposit. Document the unit's condition and any communications with your landlord.

When a landlord can legally keep part or all of a deposit

Common reasons a landlord may deduct from a deposit include unpaid rent and reasonable repair costs for damage beyond normal wear and tear.

• Unpaid rent or late fees charged to the account.
• Costs to repair damage that exceeds normal wear and tear.
• Cleaning costs if the unit was left in a significantly dirty condition.

Practical steps to recover your deposit after eviction

Follow these tenant-focused steps, and use the Residential Tenancies Branch forms when asking for a decision^[3].

• Gather dated photos, inspection reports, receipts for repairs or cleaning, and any text or email conversations with your landlord.
• Request an itemized statement from the landlord and ask for a refund in writing by email or registered mail.
• If you don't get a fair response, complete the Application for Dispute Resolution and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Branch^[3].
• Meet filing deadlines and pay any required fees; check the Branch website for current timelines.

FAQ

Can my landlord keep the damage deposit after eviction?

Your landlord can only keep part or all of the deposit for allowable reasons such as unpaid rent or reasonable repairs; ask for an itemized statement and challenge improper deductions through the Residential Tenancies Branch.

How do I start a dispute in Manitoba?

Start by collecting evidence, asking the landlord for a refund, and then filing the Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch if needed.

Will I get interest on my deposit?

Interest rules vary; check the Residential Tenancies Act and the Branch for whether interest must be paid on returned deposits in Manitoba.

How-To

1. Gather photos, inspection reports, receipts and communication records.
2. Request an itemized statement and a refund in writing from the landlord.
3. Complete and submit the Application for Dispute Resolution to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
4. File within the Branch's timelines and pay any applicable filing fees.
5. Prepare your evidence for the hearing and attend or submit written materials if you cannot attend.
6. If the decision orders repayment, follow up to ensure you receive the amount awarded.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Contact and services)
• Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
• Application and forms for the Residential Tenancies Branch

For help finding a new rental after eviction, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme or consult local shelters and housing supports.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
3. [3] Application for Dispute Resolution and other RTB forms