Rent and Deposit Rules for New Tenants in Manitoba

Starting a new tenancy in Manitoba? Understanding how rent and deposits work is essential for a smooth experience. Manitoba’s rental laws protect both tenants and landlords, covering everything from security deposits to rent payments, rent increases, and how to get your deposit back when you move out. This guide, tailored for new tenants in Manitoba, will walk you through the essentials in clear, simple terms.

Understanding Rent in Manitoba Rental Agreements

In Manitoba, your rent is the amount you pay your landlord for your home, as outlined in your tenancy agreement. By law, all tenancy agreements should be in writing and include:

• The monthly rent amount
• What’s included (utilities, parking, storage, etc.)
• The lease period (fixed-term or month-to-month)

Your rent cannot include hidden fees or charges beyond those clearly specified in your agreement. Always get a signed copy of your lease.

Paying Rent: Methods and Best Practices

Most landlords accept rent via e-transfer, post-dated cheques, direct deposit, or cash (with a receipt). If you pay in cash, always ask for a signed receipt. Late payments could result in late fees or a notice to end your tenancy, so ensure you pay on time. For more detailed information, check out the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Security Deposits and Other Deposits: Your Rights

A security deposit is money your landlord collects at the start of your tenancy, held as security in case of damages or unpaid rent. In Manitoba:

• The security deposit cannot exceed half a month’s rent.
• It must be paid back with interest when you move out, unless there are damages or rent arrears.
• Landlords cannot ask for other types of deposits, like pet deposits (unless it is a pet deposit, which is also regulated).

For more on the fundamentals, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

How and When Are Deposits Returned?

When you move out, your landlord must return your deposit within 14 days unless there are deductions, in which case they must provide you with a detailed written statement. If you disagree with deductions for damages, you can dispute them with the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Rent Increases: Rules for Manitoba Tenants

Landlords can only increase rent once every 12 months and must give at least 3 months’ written notice. Rent increase rules are set out under Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act¹. If you receive a rent increase notice, review it carefully—some units, like new builds or major renovations, may be exempt from guideline amounts.

To learn about how rent increases work and what you can do, visit the Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know page.

Official Forms for Manitoba Tenants

• Condition Report (Form RTB-4): Completed at move-in and move-out to document the rental unit’s state. Protects your right to your deposit.
  Access the Condition Report form here. Example: Fill out this form with your landlord within 1 week of moving in and when moving out.
• Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7): Used by landlords to notify tenants of a rent increase.
  Find the Notice of Rent Increase form here. Example: If your landlord serves you this notice, check that the increase respects all rules.
• Application for Order of Possession (Form RTB-12): For landlords to request eviction due to unpaid rent or other breaches.
  View all Residential Tenancy Branch forms. Example: Tenants can review this process if facing an eviction notice.

Who Regulates Manitoba Rentals?

All tenancies in Manitoba are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act¹ and overseen by the Residential Tenancies Branch. This branch handles disputes, complaints, and general information for tenants and landlords.

For a comprehensive look at your rights locally, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

FAQ: Rent & Deposits in Manitoba

1. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit?
   No more than half of one month’s rent, held in trust until you move out.
2. What if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
   File a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch. Provide move-in and move-out inspection reports as evidence.
3. Do I need to complete a condition report?
   It’s highly recommended. The report proves the state of your unit for deposit disputes.
4. How much notice do I get for a rent increase?
   At least three months in writing, and only one increase is allowed every 12 months.
5. Where can I find apartments for rent in Manitoba?
   Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for current listings, including in Manitoba.

How To: Take Action on Rent or Deposit Issues

1. How do I dispute an unfair deposit deduction?
   
   • Contact your landlord for an explanation first.
   • If unresolved, file a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch, including your inspection reports and communication records.
2. How do I challenge a rent increase I believe is too high?
   
   • Review the Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7).
   • Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch within 14 days to file an objection if the notice is incorrect or ineligible for exemption.
3. How do I ensure I get my security deposit back?
   
   • Conduct joint move-in and move-out inspections using the Condition Report form.
   • Stay current with your rent and repair any tenant-caused damage.
   • Provide your forwarding address to your landlord when you leave.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Know your rent and deposits rights; deposits cannot exceed 50% of one month’s rent and should always be properly documented.
• All rent increases must follow clear notice requirements; keep copies of all notices and forms.
• Use approved forms from the Residential Tenancies Branch for all official processes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch Manitoba — official site for forms, dispute resolution, and tenant-landlord information
• Official Manitoba rental forms
• Local tenant organizations, such as the Manitoba Tenant Rights Office, can offer advice and advocacy
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a summary of key tenant protections

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch, Government of Manitoba
3. Official Forms — Residential Tenancies Branch

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