Sealing Eviction Records in Manitoba: What Tenants Need to Know

Having an eviction record in Manitoba can make it difficult to rent a new home or rebuild your housing history. Many tenants wonder if it's possible to seal or remove a past eviction from their record. This article explains what tenants in Manitoba need to know about eviction records, your options, and what you can do to protect your future rental prospects.

Eviction Records in Manitoba: What Are They?

In Manitoba, eviction records are typically part of public decisions made by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), which handles all residential tenancy disputes, including evictions. When a landlord applies for an order of possession (eviction) through the RTB, any resulting decision may become part of the public record. These are sometimes accessible by landlords or credit agencies researching tenant backgrounds. Such records are not automatically sealed or hidden from view.

Can You Seal or Remove an Eviction Record?

In Manitoba, there is currently no legal process to seal or expunge an eviction record from the Residential Tenancies Branch public registry. Once an order of possession or related order is issued, it will remain a part of the administrative record kept by the RTB.

• Public Access: Some eviction-related decisions may be accessible through RTB records or summary databases for a period of time.
• Landlord Reporting: Landlords may also use private agencies that collect and report on eviction outcomes.

This means tenants should be prepared to address questions from future landlords about their rental history. However, in limited situations, you may be able to challenge or correct incorrect information (see below).

If Your Eviction Record is Incorrect

If you believe information about your eviction is wrong or misleading—for example, if a record remains after the issue was resolved or withdrawn—you can request correction from the Residential Tenancies Branch. This is not the same as sealing the record, but it helps ensure accuracy. You may also seek help if your eviction appears on your credit report in error.

• Contact the RTB directly for information about their record correction process.
• Contact the credit reporting agencies (like Equifax or TransUnion) if you see inaccuracies related to an eviction.

Official Forms and Procedures

While there is no specific “sealing” or “expungement” form, Manitoba tenants may use the following forms in certain situations:

Request for Review of Order – Residential Tenancies Branch

• Form Name: Request to Review an Order (Residential Tenancies Branch)
• When to Use It: If a decision or eviction order was made in error, or if new evidence comes to light, you can formally ask the RTB to review or set aside the order—this is only possible within 5 days of the decision. For example, if you never received notice of the hearing, you may use this form.
• Official source (Manitoba RTB Forms)

Request to Correct RTB Public Record

• No Standard Form: If you see a clear error in the public RTB database, write directly to the RTB to request a correction, attaching evidence.
• Contact: RTB Contact Page

If you are unsure which form or process applies, contacting the RTB for guidance is your best option.

How Eviction Records Affect Tenants in Manitoba

Eviction records may impact your ability to rent again, especially if a landlord uses tenant screening services. However, not all landlords check these records, and many prioritize references and proof of income. Showing you have addressed past problems, obtained references after your eviction, or resolved outstanding issues can help.

If you're moving out after an eviction or for other reasons, check out Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for support with your next steps.

Tips for Renting After an Eviction

• Be honest with future landlords, explaining your circumstances clearly.
• Provide positive references from previous homes.
• Show proof of stable income, or a co-signer if possible.
• Consult local tenant support services for advocacy or advice.

To learn more about your rights and laws for tenants and landlords in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

For those looking for a new start, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada using Houseme's national listings and filters.

FAQ: Sealing Eviction Records and Rental History in Manitoba

1. Can I seal or expunge my eviction record in Manitoba?
   No. Currently, Manitoba law does not provide a process to seal or expunge eviction records from the Residential Tenancies Branch's databases.
2. How long do eviction records remain public in Manitoba?
   Decisions from the RTB may be accessible for several years but are eventually archived. However, tenant screening agencies may keep their own records for longer periods.
3. Can I rent again after an eviction?
   Yes, many tenants rent again. Honest communication, solid references, and proof of income can help improve your chances—even after an eviction.
4. What do I do if my eviction record is wrong?
   You can contact the RTB to seek correction and also reach out to credit bureaus if the record appears in your credit report in error. Provide as much documentation as possible.
5. Where can I find my eviction or RTB record?
   You can contact the Residential Tenancies Branch directly for information about past orders or check their online databases when available.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

• There is no formal process to seal eviction records in Manitoba at this time.
• Promptly address any errors in RTB or credit records to protect your rental prospects.
• Prepare references and documentation when seeking a new rental after an eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba): Guidance on eviction records, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Contact the RTB: Inquire about correcting records or filing a review request.
• Legal Aid Manitoba: For low-cost or free legal assistance if facing complex housing issues.
• Consumer Protection and Government Services (MB): Information on tenant and landlord rights and complaints.

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1. Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba) – https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) – official legislation
3. Residential Tenancies Branch: Forms and Requests – https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/forms.html#general
4. Tenant rights resource page – Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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