Sharing a rented home raises extra questions about security deposits and requests for last month’s rent. In Manitoba, tenants sharing a unit with roommates often want to know what a landlord can ask for, how payments should be documented, and what rights each tenant has when someone moves out or a dispute arises. This guide explains practical steps tenants can take to protect their money, including receipts, written agreements among roommates, and when to use the Residential Tenancies Branch for disputes. It also covers how to approach repairs and inspections that affect deposit returns, and how to start a claim if a landlord won’t return funds. Read on for plain-language advice to help Manitoba renters resolve common shared-unit deposit issues.
Who can require a security deposit or last months rent?
In shared units a landlord may request funds to secure performance under the tenancy, but the exact rules depend on Manitobas tenancy law and the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). Tenants should confirm whether the payment is called a security deposit or prepayment of rent, and get a written receipt that says which it is. If a roommate pays on behalf of others, put that agreement in writing to protect everyone.
How to document payments and agreements
Always get a dated, written receipt for any security deposit or last months rent. The receipt should state the amount, what it is for, and the names of the tenants who paid. If you and your roommates agree to split last months rent, write a simple roommate addendum that explains each persons share and what happens if someone moves out early.
What to include on a receipt and in roommate agreements
- Include payer name, amount, date, and whether the payment is a deposit or last months rent.
- State any conditions for withholding (cleaning, damage, unpaid rent) in writing.
- Record who will be responsible for communication with the landlord.
When disputes arise: timing and steps
If a landlord keeps all or part of a deposit, or claims last months rent but you disagree, start by asking for an itemized explanation. If you cannot resolve the issue, you can file for dispute resolution with Manitobas Residential Tenancies Branch for help resolving the claim [1]. Keep copies of receipts, photos of the unit at move-in and move-out, and any written roommate agreements.
Practical examples
Example 1: If two roommates pay a security deposit and one moves out before the lease ends, the remaining roommate should show the receipt and any written agreement about how the deposit is divided. Example 2: If a landlord says they will use part of a deposit for cleaning, ask for an invoice or receipts that match the claimed expenses.
FAQ
- Can a landlord in Manitoba ask for both a security deposit and last months rent?
- It depends on the terms of the tenancy and Manitoba rules; tenants should get a clear written receipt identifying each payment and contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for clarification if needed [1].
- Who is responsible for returning a shared deposit when one roommate leaves?
- Responsibility follows the tenancy agreement and any written roommate arrangement; document payments and ask the landlord for an itemized statement if money is withheld.
- What if a landlord refuses to return the deposit?
- Gather receipts, photos and agreements, then file for dispute resolution with the RTB or follow the official forms process listed by the branch [3].
How-To
- Collect documentation: receipts, move-in photos, the lease, and any written roommate agreement; keep digital copies.
- Contact the landlord in writing to request an itemized explanation and any receipts for deductions within a reasonable timeframe.
- File an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch if informal steps fail; include copies of your documentation.
- Attend the scheduled hearing or mediation, present your records, and follow any orders issued by the RTB or tribunal.
Key Takeaways
- Get a written receipt for any deposit or last months rent that clearly states its purpose.
- Document the unit condition with photos at move-in and move-out to support any refund claims.
- Use the RTB dispute process when informal negotiation does not resolve the withheld funds.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) - official site
- Contact Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- Contact RTB forms and applications
