Rent Control Laws Explained for Manitoba Tenants

Rent control laws in Manitoba are designed to protect tenants from sudden or unreasonable rent increases. If you rent a home or apartment in Manitoba, understanding how these rules work can help you maintain stable housing costs and respond effectively if your landlord tries to raise your rent.

Who Oversees Rent Control and Tenancy Matters in Manitoba?

All tenancy-related disputes and rent control issues in Manitoba are handled by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). This organization enforces the Residential Tenancies Act ^[1], which governs landlord-tenant relationships and establishes rent regulation processes.

How Rent Control Works in Manitoba

Most residential units in Manitoba are subject to rent control. This means landlords can only increase rent by a set percentage each year. The government announces a permitted annual rent increase guideline, protecting tenants from unexpected jumps in their rental costs.

• In 2024, the annual rent increase guideline is 3.0%.
• This guideline applies to most apartment units, but not to newer buildings (built or first occupied after March 7, 2005), care homes, or certain subsidized housing arrangements.

When Can Landlords Increase Rent?

Landlords must follow strict rules when raising rent in Manitoba:

• Notice Period: Landlords must provide at least three months' written notice before increasing rent.
• Frequency: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months for the same tenant.
• Amount: In most cases, increases must not exceed the official guideline. To go above the guideline, landlords must apply to the RTB and get approval.

For more about your rent payment obligations and helpful budgeting advice, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

How Is Notice of a Rent Increase Given?

When your landlord wants to raise the rent, they must complete a written notice that includes:

• Amount of new rent
• Date the increase takes effect
• Statement of your right to object (if applicable)

Your landlord must use the official Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7) for most rent increases. This form should be given to you at least three months before the new rent is charged. Access the official RTB rent increase forms.

What If the Landlord Wants to Increase Above the Guideline?

Landlords may apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for an above-guideline rent increase, but only in special circumstances, such as:

• Major and necessary renovations
• Significantly increased operating costs

If this happens, tenants must be notified, and the RTB will review the application and often hold a hearing. Tenants have the right to submit evidence or objections.

If you receive a notice of above-guideline rent increase, respond in writing and contact the RTB promptly for help understanding your options.

Exceptions to Rent Control

Some properties are not covered by rent control in Manitoba, including:

• Buildings first occupied after March 7, 2005
• Units in care facilities and institutions
• Commercial tenancies and some subsidized/non-profit housing

For more details about overall tenant and landlord rights in Manitoba, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

What Tenants Should Do If They Get a Rent Increase Notice

If you receive a rent increase notice and believe it doesn't comply with Manitoba law (for example, the notice period is too short, or the increase is above the guideline without approval), you have the right to object:

• Contact your landlord to clarify the notice.
• File a written objection with the RTB within 14 days if it's for an above-guideline increase.
• Seek advice or assistance if you have questions or need help disputing the increase.

Keeping a copy of all correspondence and notices is always a good practice.

Related Financial Protections for Tenants

Many tenants want to understand the full range of financial protections in renting. If you're also concerned about security deposits or moving in costs, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Key Official Forms For Manitoba Rent Control

• Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7):
  • When to Use: Landlords must use this form to officially notify tenants of a rent increase.
  • Example: If you receive this form, review the details—amount, effective date, and reason. If something seems incorrect, contact the RTB for guidance.
  • Download Form RTB-7 from the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch
• Application for Above Guideline Rent Increase (Form RTB-13):
  • When to Use: Landlords use this form to request permission for a rent increase above the guideline. Tenants do not fill this out, but they are entitled to receive notice and may object.
  • Form RTB-13 and related info at Manitoba RTB
• Tenant’s Objection to Above Guideline Rent Increase (Letter):
  • When to Use: Tenants write a letter or fill out an objection form within 14 days to contest an above-guideline increase.
  • Instructions on objecting at the Manitoba RTB

If you’re searching for a new place or want to compare regulated rental prices, try Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to see homes across Canada in various price ranges.

Frequently Asked Questions: Manitoba Rent Control

1. How much can my rent be increased in Manitoba?
   The 2024 rent increase guideline is 3.0%. Most landlords cannot go above this except with special permission from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
2. Do all rental units in Manitoba have rent control?
   No. Newly built or first occupied units since March 7, 2005, and certain other housing types are exempt from rent control rules.
3. What should I do if my landlord gives me a rent increase above the guideline?
   Review the notice, confirm if the landlord has applied for an above-guideline increase, and submit an objection with the RTB within 14 days if needed.
4. Do I have to accept a rent increase if I just moved in?
   No. Your rent cannot be increased within the first 12 months of your tenancy unless otherwise agreed in writing or by special exception.
5. Where can I get advice about rent increases or tenant rights?
   Start with the Residential Tenancies Branch or see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for an overview.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Most rental units are subject to a government-set annual rent increase limit.
• Landlords must give proper notice and use official forms for rent increases.
• If you receive an above-guideline rent increase notice, you have the right to object through the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Staying informed helps you manage your rental budget and assert your rights confidently!

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (official site) — Main resource for rent control, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Manitoba Housing — For housing assistance and programs.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba — Understand general tenant rights, security deposit rules, and eviction procedures.
• Tenant advocacy services: Local legal clinics and organizations can offer advice if you need help disputing a rent increase or require support during a dispute.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): See the current legislation
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Official info and forms

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