Splitting Rent and Deposits With Roommates in Manitoba

Sharing a rental home with roommates in Manitoba is common, but knowing the rules for splitting rent and deposits can prevent misunderstandings and protect your rights. This article explains what tenants need to know under Manitoba law, how to divide responsibilities, and what official steps to take for a smooth rental experience.

How Rent and Deposits Work With Roommates

When you live with roommates in Manitoba, each tenant’s responsibilities depend on how the rental agreement is structured:

• Joint Tenancy: All roommates sign the lease. Everyone is responsible for the full rent and for following all terms of the agreement. If one person doesn't pay, the landlord can seek the whole rent from any tenant.
• Individual Agreements: Each roommate may have their own separate agreement with the landlord. In this case, each person’s responsibility is for their portion only.

Most rentals in Manitoba use a joint tenancy model.

Dividing the Security Deposit

The Residential Tenancies Act limits security (damage) deposits to no more than half of one month's rent.¹ Usually, the landlord collects this as one lump sum. Roommates typically split the deposit according to their share of the rent, but all names should appear on the receipt and lease agreement.

If any roommate plans to move out before the others, it's important to document how the deposit will be divided or replaced—this can avoid disputes later. For a deep dive on how deposits work, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Official Forms for Roommates in Manitoba

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) oversees rental rules, disputes, and forms in Manitoba. Some forms every roommate should know about:

• Rental Application – All prospective tenants submit this to the landlord to apply. View the official Rental Application (PDF).
• Change in Tenancy Form (RTB-12) – Used if you want to add or remove a roommate from the lease. Example: If a roommate moves out and a new one moves in, you must file this with the RTB and get landlord consent. Download the Change in Tenancy Form (RTB-12).
• Notice of Termination (RTB-3) – Needed if all tenants plan to end the tenancy. This protects your financial rights and ensures the full deposit is handled properly. View the Notice of Termination (RTB-3).

Paying and Splitting Rent With Roommates

Landlords can require one rent payment each month, even if you and your roommates split the total among yourselves. It's vital to:

• Track who pays what (consider joint bank accounts or payment apps)
• Get receipts with all tenants’ names
• Have a written roommate agreement for how to handle rent, deposits, utilities, and cleaning duties

Manitoba law doesn’t require landlords to intervene in disputes between roommates about splitting costs—they care only that the total rent is paid. If disagreements arise, an internal roommate agreement can help. For general guidance on making payments, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

What Happens to Deposits if a Roommate Leaves?

Deposits are usually refunded only when the last tenant moves out and the tenancy ends. If one roommate moves out early:

• They may need to settle their share privately with other roommates.
• If a new roommate moves in, use the Change in Tenancy Form to update the lease and deposit records.

Key Manitoba Laws for Roommates

Roommate arrangements are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act. The legislation details:

• How deposits are collected and returned
• Tenants’ obligations for rent payments
• Rules for ending/renewing tenancy

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba page offers an overview of these tenant protections.

Protecting Yourself With a Roommate Agreement

Each roommate shares legal responsibility with the landlord, but an internal agreement can clarify things like:

• Who pays for damage
• How cleaning and utilities are shared
• Consequences if someone can’t pay rent

Roommate agreements are not legally binding with the landlord but are still useful for preventing arguments among tenants.

Finding Your Next Shared Rental

If you're searching for new roommates or want to explore more rental options, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings for apartments, condos, or houses across Manitoba and Canada.

FAQ: Splitting Rent and Deposits With Roommates in Manitoba

1. Are all roommates responsible for the full rent amount?
   Yes. Unless you have individual tenancies, all roommates on a joint lease are responsible for the full rent. The landlord can require payment from any or all tenants.
2. Can I get my deposit back if I leave before my roommates?
   Usually, your share of the deposit is recovered from your roommates, or a new roommate pays you out. The landlord returns the full deposit only when the tenancy ends.
3. What if there is damage and no one admits fault?
   All joint tenants share liability for damages unless you have proof of who caused it. Your landlord can deduct from the deposit, and roommates must resolve disputes internally.
4. What form do I use to add or remove a roommate?
   You must use the Change in Tenancy Form (RTB-12) and get written approval from the landlord.
5. Do all roommates have to sign the lease?
   It's best if all living in the unit sign the lease—this ensures your rights and access to the deposit.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Put everything in writing—roommate agreements help prevent problems.
• File official forms with the Residential Tenancies Branch to update leases or roommates.
• Deposits are returned at the end of the tenancy—plan ahead when someone moves out early.

Good communication and clear documentation give everyone peace of mind.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba: Forms, dispute resolution, and tenant information. Phone: 204-945-2476
• RTB Forms and Publications: Download all official tenancy forms for Manitoba.
• Manitoba Tenant Advisor Office: Free advice and representation for tenants in disputes.
• More details: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (CCSM c. R119). See: Official Manitoba Legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba. See: Government of Manitoba RTB

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