Short-Term Rentals vs Long-Term Tenancies in Manitoba: Key Differences

Whether you're renting a Winnipeg condo for a few nights or signing a year-long apartment lease in Brandon, knowing the crucial differences between short-term rentals and traditional long-term tenancies in Manitoba protects your rights. This guide for Manitoba tenants explains how these rental types are governed, what legal protections apply, and what steps you should take before moving in.

Short-Term Rentals Versus Long-Term Tenancies: Legal Definitions in Manitoba

In Manitoba, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) sets out the rights and obligations for most rental situations. However, not every rental is treated the same:

• Short-term rentals (such as Airbnb, VRBO, and vacation homes) typically involve stays of less than one month. These are generally not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act if the accommodation is for travel or vacation purposes, not permanent residence.
• Long-term tenancies involve renting for a set period (usually monthly, annually, or continuing month-to-month). These are covered by the Act and have robust tenant protections.

Understanding which type of agreement you have is crucial for your legal rights.

When Does Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act Apply?

The Residential Tenancies Act applies to almost all leases where the tenant uses the unit as a residence. Common exceptions include:

• Short-term vacation stays (like hotels, motels, or rentals of less than one month for travel)
• Residences under commercial arrangements (e.g., home-share bookings not intended as a main home)
• Student dormitories owned by educational institutions

If you're primarily staying for a vacation, the RTA likely does not apply. If your stay exceeds 30 days and you intend to live in the rental, you're generally covered by the Act.

Key Differences: Protections and Obligations

Protecting yourself means understanding how your rental is classified. Here's what tenants need to know:

• Security Deposits: For long-term rentals, the law regulates security deposits. If your stay is a covered tenancy, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for rules about deposit amounts and returns. Short-term rentals may set their own deposit policies without legal limits.
• Leases & Notices: Long-term tenancies require written agreements, clear notice to end the lease, and proper rent increases. Short-term hosts (e.g., Airbnbs) can ask you to leave per their platform policies and often don't require written notice.
• Eviction and Dispute Resolution: Long-term tenants who are covered can apply to the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch if an issue arises (see below). Short-term guests may have to use the short-term booking site’s own dispute process.
• Repairs & Maintenance: Tenants in covered long-term rentals have a right to lodging in good repair and can file maintenance complaints if landlords do not fix issues promptly.

Protection for Long-Term Tenants: Forms and Legal Processes

If you're in a long-term tenancy, you are protected through Manitoba’s official systems. Important forms include:

• Tenancy Agreement (Form RTB-1): This is the standard rental contract. You should receive and keep a copy.
  Example: If you sign a one-year agreement, ensure the terms are all listed here. Download the form.
• Notice of Termination (Form RTB-8 or RTB-9): If you wish to end your tenancy, you must submit proper written notice using the correct form and timelines. Find official forms and details.

These forms support fair treatment and help avoid common disputes. Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) oversees these processes.

What Tenants Should Do Before Moving In

Whether renting short-term or long-term, take steps to protect yourself:

• Clarify if your stay is covered by the Residential Tenancies Act or platform terms only.
• For long-term rentals, request a written lease and keep copies of all documents.
• Check who to contact for repairs and emergencies.
• Conduct an initial inspection. For guidance, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Need a new place that meets your needs? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare both short- and long-term options quickly and easily.

For an overview of tenancy rights in your region, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

FAQ: Tenant Questions About Manitoba Rental Types

1. Does the Residential Tenancies Act apply to Airbnb or VRBO?
   Usually no, if your stay is temporary or for vacation only. But if you’re living in a place as your main residence, even if you found it on a short-term platform, you may be protected. Always check how long your stay is and the reason for it.
2. Can I be evicted without notice from a short-term rental?
   Short-term stays aren’t covered by Manitoba’s tenancy law, so platform or owner rules apply. For long-term tenancies, landlords must provide proper written notice and follow the legal process.
3. How do I end a long-term tenancy properly?
   You must give written notice using the official termination form and follow required timelines. See the government’s guidelines for details.
4. What if I have a problem with a landlord or host?
   For long-term tenancies, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch. For short-term bookings, use the platform’s complaint or dispute process.
5. Do rules about deposits apply to short stays?
   No. Manitoba’s deposit limits and rules apply to covered tenancies only. For short-term rentals, the owner or platform sets their own rules.

Conclusion: Things Manitoba Tenants Should Remember

• Short-term and long-term rental types have very different legal protections. Always clarify what applies to your situation.
• If you’re in a long-term tenancy, insist on a written rental agreement and know your rights under the law.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for official help and always document communications.

Summary: Understand your rental type so you know what rights and protections you have in Manitoba. Being informed will help you rent with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Inquiries and dispute resolution for long-term tenants (call 204-945-2476 or email rtb@gov.mb.ca)
• Official Manitoba Tenancy Forms: All current forms for Manitoba renters and landlords
• FAQs from RTB: Further help with your tenant rights questions

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1. "Residential Tenancies Act (C.C.S.M. c. R119)" – Government of Manitoba
2. "Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB)" – Official Rental Tribunal site
3. "Official Manitoba Tenancy Forms" – Province of Manitoba

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