Manitoba Rent Increase Rules: Frequency and Tenant Rights

Are you renting in Manitoba and wondering how often your landlord can increase your rent? Understanding rent increase rules helps you plan your budget and know your rights as a tenant. Manitoba has specific legal protections—reviewed every year—so it’s important to stay informed about the latest rules and requirements.

How Often Can Landlords Raise Rent in Manitoba?

In Manitoba, rent for most residential tenancies can only be increased once every 12 months. The provincial government sets a maximum allowable increase each year—often referred to as the annual rent increase guideline. Your landlord cannot raise the rent more frequently or by a higher amount unless special approval is obtained from the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), the official tribunal responsible for rental housing in Manitoba.

Key Timing Rules

  • One increase every 12 months: There must be at least 12 months between rent increases for the same unit.
  • Minimum 3 months' written notice: Landlords must give tenants at least three months' written notice before the increase takes effect.
  • Annual guideline: The government sets a rent increase guideline. For 2024, the allowable increase is 3.0%. See the official guideline here.

These rules apply to most rental units, but some exceptions exist (see below).

Exceptions and Special Approvals

Certain rental units, like new buildings, non-profit housing, or mobile home lots, may be exempt from provincial guidelines. In addition, landlords can apply to the RTB to increase rent above the annual guideline if they can prove that expenses (like major repairs) justify it.

When Higher Increases Are Permitted

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Legal Notice Requirements to Increase Rent

All rent increase notices in Manitoba must be in writing and meet strict requirements under provincial law. The date, new rent amount, and when it takes effect must be clearly stated. Landlords should use the approved form for notice of rent increase to tenants.

Official Form: Notice of Rent Increase

  • Form: Notice of Rent Increase (RTB Form)
  • When to use: This form must be used anytime a landlord wishes to legally increase a tenant's rent.
  • Example: If your lease began on June 1, 2023, and your landlord wants to raise rent on June 1, 2024, they must serve you this form no later than February 28, 2024.
  • How to serve: Notice may be given in person, by mail, or in a way agreed to in your rental agreement.

If proper notice is not provided, the rent increase is not valid under Manitoba law.

Can Tenants Dispute a Rent Increase?

Yes. If you believe a proposed rent increase is unfair or does not follow the law, you can apply to the RTB to have it reviewed. This may be especially important if the landlord is seeking a higher-than-guideline increase or if procedure wasn't followed. See more guidance in Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens After Receiving a Rent Increase Notice?

If your landlord has followed the correct process, your new rent will take effect after the minimum three-month notice period. You will need to pay the new amount starting on the effective date. For more on what to do after changes to your rental agreement, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Summary of Rights and Options

  • Rent can’t increase more than once a year, and only after proper notice.
  • Annual increases must not exceed the government guideline unless approved by the RTB.
  • Tenants may dispute improper increases through the RTB process.

Want to learn more about your province's laws? See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a comprehensive overview.

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FAQ: Rent Increases in Manitoba

  1. How often can my landlord raise my rent in Manitoba?
    Once every 12 months, and only with at least three months' written notice.
  2. What is the maximum rent increase in 2024?
    For 2024, the maximum is 3.0% unless the landlord receives special approval from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
  3. Do all rental units follow the same rules?
    Most do, but some buildings (like newer rentals or subsidized housing) may be exempt. Always check your situation against the Residential Tenancies Act.
  4. Can I dispute a rent increase notice?
    Yes. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch to review the increase, especially if it seems improper or does not follow the law.
  5. What happens if my landlord doesn't use the official rent increase form?
    The increase may not be valid if the proper written notice and forms are not used. Contact the RTB for help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba): Official RTB Site
  2. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): Full Legislation
  3. 2024 Rent Increase Guideline: Government Source

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