Many tenants in Manitoba who have disabilities need to modify locks, doorbells, lighting, or other security features to live safely and independently. Renting with a disability raises practical questions about who pays, what permissions are needed, and how to document the need. This guide explains clear options for renters in Manitoba, how to prepare a request for changes, when to use official forms or apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch, and how human-rights protections can support reasonable accommodations so you can secure your home with confidence.
What counts as a security modification?
Security modifications are any physical or electronic changes that improve personal safety or access: for example, visual doorbells, tactile locks, accessible keyless entry, motion-activated exterior lighting, or reinforced doors. Minor changes like adding a temporary door alarm differ from permanent alterations such as installing an electronic deadbolt or wiring a hardwired doorbell. Tenants should describe the functional need and preferred solution when asking a landlord.
Tenant rights and Manitoba law
In Manitoba, tenants with disabilities are protected by human-rights legislation and have a right to request reasonable accommodation. The Residential Tenancies Branch handles disputes about tenancy terms and applications if you and your landlord cannot agree [1]. The provincial Residential Tenancies Act sets general obligations for landlords and tenants, but human-rights rules can require reasonable changes to allow equality of access [2]. If a landlord refuses without valid reasons, you may file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission [3].
How to request a security modification (practical steps)
Use a calm, factual request that explains the disability-related need, the specific modification you propose, who will do the work, and whether you can pay or will seek reimbursement. Offer to provide photos or a note from a health professional if helpful. If the landlord agrees, get written permission and any conditions (for example, restoring the unit at move-out).
- Write a clear, dated written request describing the accommodation and why it is needed.
- Attach supporting evidence: photos, diagrams, or a brief note from a health professional if available.
- Offer a proposal about who will pay and whether you will have the work done by a licensed tradesperson.
- Ask for written permission that specifies any restoration conditions for the end of the tenancy.
- If the landlord refuses, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch or seek human-rights advice.
Official forms and when to use them
Knowing which form to use helps protect your rights. Common official actions are described below with examples.
- Application for Dispute Resolution (Residential Tenancies Branch) — used when you and your landlord cannot agree and you need the Branch to decide; e.g., the landlord denies permission to install an accessible deadbolt and you apply to have the Branch order a reasonable accommodation.[1]
- RTB forms and guide pages — practical filing instructions, fees, and what evidence to include (see the Branch forms page for the correct application PDF).[1]
- Human Rights complaint form — if the refusal appears discriminatory (refusal specifically tied to your disability), you can contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission for guidance or file a complaint. This is appropriate when denial goes beyond ordinary tenancy disagreements.[3]
What landlords can reasonably require
Landlords may ask that work be done by a qualified tradesperson, that permits be obtained when required, and that the tenant repair any damage or restore the unit at the end of tenancy. They cannot lawfully refuse a reasonable accommodation solely because it costs money; however, they may negotiate cost-sharing or require receipts and proof of professional installation.
When to consider a human-rights complaint
File with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission when a landlord consistently refuses reasonable accommodation tied to a disability and discussions, mediation, or an RTB application do not resolve the issue. Human-rights remedies can focus on accommodation and compensation for harm caused by discrimination.[3]
FAQ
- Can I make a security modification without my landlord's permission?
- If the change is minor and reversible you may discuss it first, but you should get written permission; for permanent alterations you typically need landlord approval or an order from the Residential Tenancies Branch.[1]
- Who pays for modifications?
- Often parties negotiate cost-sharing; a landlord may be required to pay reasonable accommodation costs in some cases, while tenants may agree to pay for upgrades that are primarily for convenience.
- What if my landlord asks me to restore the unit later?
- Landlords can require reasonable restoration; get the condition and expectations in writing and keep receipts for any approved work.
How-To
- Write a dated request explaining the disability-related need and the exact security modification you want.
- Gather evidence: photos, measurements, and an optional supporting note from a health professional.
- Contact your landlord to discuss the proposal and offer solutions for who will complete and pay for the work.
- If you cannot reach agreement, file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
- If discrimination is suspected, contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission for guidance on filing a complaint.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants with disabilities may request reasonable security adaptations and should document the need.
- If negotiation fails, the Residential Tenancies Branch and human-rights processes are available.
- Get written permissions and keep receipts to avoid disputes at move-out.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba)
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- [3] Manitoba Human Rights Commission
For help finding accessible rental listings while you look for an appropriately equipped unit, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
