Manitoba Rent and Deposits: A Complete Tenant Checklist

Whether you’re moving into your first Winnipeg apartment or renewing a lease in Brandon, knowing how rent and deposits work in Manitoba protects both your peace of mind and your wallet. This comprehensive checklist breaks down every step tenants need to follow—before move-in, during your tenancy, and when moving out—based on the latest Manitoba laws and resources.

Understanding Rent, Deposits, and Your Rights in Manitoba

Residential tenancies in Manitoba are regulated by The Residential Tenancies Act. The Residential Tenancies Branch is the official provincial body handling all rental matters, from security deposits to disputes, for both tenants and landlords. Manitoba law sets out clear rules for how security deposits, rent payments, and rent increases must be handled.^[1]

• Security deposits (sometimes called damage deposits) have a legal maximum
• Rent payments and receipts must be documented
• Landlords must provide written rent increase notices

Checklist Before Moving In

• Sign a Rental Agreement: Make sure to get a written agreement outlining rent amount, deposit, and all terms.
• Paying Security Deposit: In Manitoba, landlords can only request up to half one month’s rent as a security deposit. Always ask for a written receipt.
• Initial Inspection: Conduct and document a move-in inspection with your landlord. Take dated photos and fill out the official Condition Report (Form RTB-27) available from the Residential Tenancies Branch. This protects you from unfair deductions when moving out.
• Get a Copy of the Tenancy Agreement: This should also include any building rules.
• Know Your Rights: Brush up on key responsibilities with Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

For a more detailed explanation of how deposits work and what to expect, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

During Your Tenancy

Staying organized and aware of your rights through your tenancy can help avoid frustration and misunderstanding.

• Rent Payments: Pay on time every month. Get a receipt each time—this is your proof if there’s ever a dispute.
• Rent Increases: Your landlord must give you at least three months’ written notice before any increase, and can only increase once every 12 months. Use the official rent increase guidelines for the current year.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Report needed repairs in writing and keep copies. If repairs aren’t made, use the Request for Repairs form and, if necessary, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for help.
• Changes to Tenancy: Any changes—such as a new roommate—should be acknowledged in writing by the landlord.

Learn more about paying your rent, rights about receipts, and practical solutions in Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Checklist Before Moving Out

Following these steps can help ensure a smooth move-out and maximize the return of your security deposit.

• Give Proper Notice: Use the Notice of Termination form (Form RTB-12) from the Residential Tenancies Branch. Usually, one rental period (often one month) notice is required in writing.
• Final Inspection: Schedule a joint inspection with your landlord and complete a move-out Condition Report. Take dated photos again for your records.
• Return Keys and Clean: Clean the unit and return all keys. Document everything in writing or photos.
• Get Your Deposit Back: The landlord must return the security deposit (plus interest) within 14 days of your move-out—minus any fair deductions. Disputes can be filed with the Branch if you disagree with deductions.

For more information, see our step-by-step guide: How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Required Official Forms in Manitoba

• Condition Report (Form RTB-27): Used for both move-in and move-out inspections. Example: Complete it with your landlord and keep a copy signed by both parties. Download and instructions.
• Notice of Termination (Form RTB-12): Submit this when you wish to end your tenancy. Example: If you plan to move at the end of July, deliver the form to your landlord by June 30. Access official forms here.
• Rent Increase Notice (Form RTB-7): Used by landlords when increasing rent. Example: Landlord must give this to you at least 3 months before the new rate starts. Find the latest form.

FAQ: Manitoba Tenants and Rental Deposits

1. How much security deposit can my landlord ask for in Manitoba?
   Landlords can charge no more than half a month’s rent as a security deposit.
2. How soon must the landlord return my security deposit after I move out?
   Your deposit must be returned within 14 days after tenancy ends, with any lawful deductions and interest paid.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
   Submit a dispute application to the Residential Tenancies Branch if your landlord fails to refund your deposit within the time limit.
4. What documents should I keep during my tenancy?
   Always keep receipts for rent and deposit payments, signed inspection reports, and copies of your written communications.
5. Can my landlord increase the rent whenever they want?
   No. They must give three months’ written notice and can only raise rent once every 12 months.

How To: Navigating Rent, Deposits, and Inspections in Manitoba

1. How to complete your move-in inspection and protect your deposit:
   
   1. Schedule an inspection with your landlord the day you move in.
   2. Use the official Condition Report (Form RTB-27) to record the state of the property, and document with photos or video.
   3. Have both you and your landlord sign the report, and keep a copy.
2. How to provide notice when moving out:
   
   1. Fill out the Notice of Termination (Form RTB-12).
   2. Deliver it to your landlord in person (get a signed receipt) or by registered mail, keeping proof of delivery.
3. How to dispute a withheld deposit:
   
   1. Contact your landlord in writing to request your deposit back.
   2. If they refuse or don't respond after 14 days, submit a Dispute Application with supporting documents to the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Always get receipts and use proper forms for rent and deposits.
• Complete inspections at move-in and move-out using the official Condition Report.
• Know your rights to a prompt deposit return, and dispute delays or deductions through the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch – Manitoba (information, forms, mediation, and dispute resolution)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba (summary of your rights and obligations)
• Consumer Protection Office Manitoba (advice and support)
• For rental listings or to compare local options, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch

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