Manitoba tenants and renters often face disputes about repairs, rent, deposits or notices. The Residential Tenancies Branch dispute resolution process is the official way to resolve these issues without court. This guide explains when to file an application, what forms and evidence to gather, important deadlines, and what happens at a hearing. It also covers practical steps you can take before filing documenting problems, sending written notices, and trying to resolve matters with your landlord. If you attend a hearing, you will learn how to present your documents clearly and what outcomes the Branch can order. The goal is to help tenants understand their options and be ready to protect their rights throughout the process.
How the Residential Tenancies Branch handles disputes
The Residential Tenancies Branch resolves landlord-tenant disputes and issues decisions about rent, repairs, deposits and tenancy endings. You can find the Branch contact details and general guidance on the government website. Residential Tenancies Branch[1] The Branch applies rules set out in Manitobas Residential Tenancies Act to reach decisions and issue orders that are legally binding.[2]
Before you apply
- Document the issue with dated photos, messages, receipts and a short timeline.
- Send a clear written notice to your landlord describing the problem and keep a copy for your records.
- Keep rent receipts, bank records and proof of payments to show payment history if needed.
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Filing and forms
To start a formal dispute, complete the official application and submit supporting documents. The Branch posts an official forms page with the application template and guidance.Residential Tenancies Branch forms[3]
- Application for Dispute Resolution — use this to ask the Branch to decide an issue. Example: a tenant files after repeated repair requests and no effective response.
- Notice to End a Tenancy — used where a tenancy must end for allowable reasons (for example, non-payment of rent) and the applicable notice period applies.
Preparing for the hearing
Once your application is scheduled, prepare a clear package for the hearing and practise presenting the facts concisely.
- Gather evidence: photos, receipts, repair requests, communication logs and any signed agreements.
- Arrange a simple timeline of events with dates to show sequence and deadlines.
- Collect witness statements or contact details if others can confirm facts.
- Bring originals and copies of documents and arrive early for the scheduled hearing time.
FAQ
- What kinds of disputes can the Branch decide?
- The Branch handles issues like unpaid rent, deposit disputes, repair and maintenance claims, and tenancy endings.
- Will there be a hearing in person?
- Hearings may be in person, by telephone or by videoconference depending on case type and Branch procedures.
- Do I need a lawyer?
- You can represent yourself. Lawyers or community advocates may assist but are not required for most cases.
How-To
- Check eligibility, notice requirements and deadlines before you apply.
- Gather and organize all relevant evidence and prepare a short timeline.
- Complete and submit the Application for Dispute Resolution with copies of supporting documents.
- Attend the hearing, present your facts clearly, and answer the adjudicators questions.
- Follow any orders issued by the Branch and keep records of compliance or enforcement steps.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch (Government of Manitoba)
- Residential Tenancies Branch forms (Government of Manitoba)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
