Living in Manitoba, renters often face uncertainty after storm damage to their rental homes. You may wonder who is legally responsible for repairs, how fast repairs must happen, whether you can fix things yourself, and how to pay for emergency work. This guide lays out tenant and landlord duties under Manitoba rules, the list of official forms and where to file a complaint, and practical steps to protect your health and your deposit. Learn what counts as an emergency, how to document damage clearly, when to involve insurance, and when to apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution. Clear examples and links to official sources will help you take action with confidence.
Who is responsible for storm damage repairs?
In Manitoba, landlords are generally responsible for keeping rental properties in a state of repair and fit for habitation, which usually includes fixing structural damage, leaks, heating failures, and other consequences of storms. Tenants are responsible for damage they cause through their own negligence. If the cause of damage is unclear, document everything and notify your landlord in writing right away so the responsibility can be assessed.
Immediate steps for tenants after storm damage
Act quickly to protect safety and reduce further loss. Follow these practical steps and keep dated records of each action.
- Contact your landlord immediately in writing to report the damage and request repairs.
- Take photos and videos of all damage, including timestamps where possible.
- Mitigate further damage where safe to do so (cover broken windows, mop up water) and keep receipts for supplies.
- Keep a written log of calls, messages, and any commitments from the landlord about repair timing.
When the landlord must pay
If the storm caused damage to the building or systems that the landlord must maintain, the landlord should arrange and pay for repairs. This typically covers things like roof leaks, broken windows, structural damage, and damage to shared systems such as heating or plumbing. If repairs are delayed and the issue affects habitability, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution.[1]
Emergency repairs
For true emergencies that threaten safety or cause ongoing major damage (for example, major flooding, gas leaks, or loss of heat in winter), the landlord must respond quickly. If the landlord is unreachable and you must hire a professional to prevent further loss, keep all receipts and notify the landlord immediately in writing. You may later seek reimbursement or a resolution through the Branch or insurance.
What if the landlord doesn 27t act?
If reasonable repair requests are ignored, tenants can file an application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch. Before filing, send a clear written notice to the landlord stating the problem and a reasonable deadline to repair. If the issue persists, the Branch can order repairs, rent reductions, or compensation depending on the situation.[1]
Insurance, cost sharing and deducting repair costs
Check whether damage is covered by renter 27s or landlord insurance. Landlords may file claims for building damage; tenants 27 insurance can cover personal belongings. Tenants should not assume they can unilaterally deduct repair costs from rent without written agreement or an RTB order. If you believe a deduction is appropriate, apply to the Branch and present evidence and receipts.[2]
Documenting damage and evidence tips
Good evidence speeds up remedies. Keep dated photos, videos, written notices to the landlord, messages, invoices, and witness names. When possible, get written repair estimates and keep copies of receipts for any emergency spending you must do yourself.
- Photos and videos showing the damage from multiple angles.
- Copies of all written notices you sent or received about the damage.
- Invoices, repair estimates, and receipts for emergency purchases.
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Branch and forms to use
For disputes about unpaid repairs, rent adjustments, or failure to repair, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution. The most common form is the Application for Dispute Resolution, which explains the problem, the outcome you 27re seeking, and lets you attach evidence. Detailed instructions and forms are available on the provincial site.[3]
Relevant internal and external resources
For tenant-focused guidance on emergency repairs and routine responsibilities see the linked pages and tools below.
- Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
- Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
- Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
FAQ
- Who pays for storm damage repairs?
- Landlords are usually responsible for repairing storm damage to the building and essential systems; tenants are responsible for damage they caused themselves.
- Can I make emergency repairs and deduct the cost from rent?
- Only with a written agreement or an order from the Residential Tenancies Branch; keep all receipts and try to get landlord approval first.
- How do I file a complaint if my landlord won 27t fix storm damage?
- Document the damage, send the landlord a written request to repair, then file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch if the landlord does not act.
How-To
- Contact the landlord in writing describing the damage and request a repair timeframe.
- Gather photos, videos, witness names, and any receipts for emergency costs.
- Tackle safe, temporary mitigation steps to prevent further damage and keep receipts.
- Complete the Application for Dispute Resolution and attach your evidence and copies of notices.
- Submit the application to the Residential Tenancies Branch and pay any required fee or request a fee waiver if eligible.
- Attend the hearing or follow the Branch 27s directions and keep a copy of the decision for your records.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- RTB forms and applications
