Repairing Your Credit After Eviction Judgment in Manitoba

If you’re a tenant in Manitoba who has faced an eviction judgment, repairing your credit may feel overwhelming. However, taking clear, practical steps can help you recover your financial health and improve your chances of securing a new home in the future. This guide explains how eviction judgments affect your credit, how to address debt, and what resources are available to help you get back on track.

Understanding Eviction Judgments and Your Credit in Manitoba

An eviction judgment happens when the Residential Tenancies Branch or a court orders you to leave your rental and may require you to pay money to the landlord. In Manitoba, these judgments can show up on your credit report, especially if your landlord reports unpaid rent or damage-related debts to a collections agency.

• Eviction judgments themselves don’t automatically appear on your credit report, but unpaid debts (like rent or damages) that go to collections do.
• This can make it harder to rent again or qualify for loans, so taking steps to address debt quickly is essential.

The Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba handles all residential tenancy matters, including eviction applications, orders of possession, and rent-related judgments.

How to Check Your Credit After Eviction

It’s a good idea to check your credit report soon after an eviction judgment. Canada’s two main credit bureaus—Equifax and TransUnion—offer free access to your credit file:

• Visit Equifax Canada or TransUnion Canada to order your report.
• Look for any new collection items, especially those related to your former rental.

If you find debts you don’t recognize, you can dispute them with the credit bureau. This is your first step to ensuring accuracy and limiting negative effects.

What to Do About Outstanding Debt After Eviction

Unpaid rent, utilities, or damages listed on an eviction judgment can be sent to collections. Here’s how to start addressing that debt:

• Contact the landlord or collection agency to negotiate a payment plan. Get any agreement in writing.
• Pay off the debt if possible, as most collections drop from your credit report after six years in Manitoba.
• Keep receipts and proof of payment—these may be needed to clear up future housing applications.

If you’re facing issues related to timely rent payments or rental obligations, see the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for more information.

Steps for Repairing Your Credit Post-Eviction

With the debt managed or being repaid, it’s time to focus on rebuilding your credit profile:

• Make all payments on time: This includes new rental payments, utilities, or any active debts.
• Apply for a secured credit card: Using a secured card responsibly can help demonstrate good financial behavior.
• Monitor your credit regularly: Look for improvements and ensure closed debts are reported as paid.

Tip: Keep communication open with potential landlords. Sharing evidence of paid debts and a steady job or references may improve your rental chances even after an eviction judgment.

Applying for New Rentals After an Eviction

After an eviction, many tenants worry about renting again. Taking proactive steps—such as having references ready, providing evidence of debt repayment, and honestly explaining your past—can help. For more tips on transitioning to your next home, check the Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

For a wide range of options when looking for your next place, Browse apartments for rent in Canada to find suitable homes across Manitoba and beyond.

Official Forms and Resources for Tenants

Manitoba offers official forms you may need if you wish to respond to an Order of Possession, address a debt, or deal with issues from your tenancy record:

• Application for Review (RTB Form 17): Used if you feel the Residential Tenancies Branch order (such as an eviction decision) was made in error or if new evidence arises. This form must be submitted promptly—usually within seven days of receiving the Order. Access the Application for Review form here.
• Request to Pay (Payment Agreement): While there is no specific RTB-issued form, tenants can submit a written payment plan to the landlord and, if necessary, present it to the Branch. This is helpful for negotiating repayment of any outstanding debts, potentially avoiding further negative credit impact.

If you have questions about residential tenancy rights and legislation, Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba offers a helpful overview.

What Law Governs Eviction and Credit Issues?

In Manitoba, the key legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act (C.C.S.M. c. R119)¹.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will an eviction always show up on my credit report in Manitoba?
   Not automatically; only unpaid debts related to the tenancy (such as rent or damages) sent to collections will appear on your credit file.
2. How long does an eviction-related debt stay on my credit report?
   Most collections stay on your report for up to six years from the date you first went into default.
3. Can I remove an error or outdated debt from my credit report?
   Yes, you can dispute incorrect information with the credit bureau (Equifax or TransUnion). They are required to investigate and update your record if the information is wrong.
4. Can I re-rent after an eviction judgment in Manitoba?
   Yes, but be prepared to provide references, proof of repaid debts, or explain your situation to new landlords.
5. Where can I get help with debt repayment plans?
   Community organizations, credit counselling services, or the Residential Tenancies Branch can offer guidance and referral services.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Eviction judgments don’t always affect your credit, but related debts sent to collections will.
• Check your credit regularly and address any outstanding rental debts as soon as possible.
• Resources and forms are available to respond to orders, negotiate payments, and protect your rights in Manitoba.

Taking early, practical action can set you on the path to financial recovery and rental success.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba: Offers tenant-landlord dispute resolution, forms, and guides. Phone: 204-945-2476 or toll-free 1-800-782-8403.
• Credit Counselling Society: Free confidential advice for debt issues. Visit nomoredebts.org.
• Legal Help Centre Winnipeg: Free legal information for tenants. See legalhelpcentre.ca.
• For Manitoba laws and tenant protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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1. Read the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) in full
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch official site
3. Equifax Canada credit reports | TransUnion Canada credit reports
4. Manitoba RTB Forms and Guides

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