Student Housing Lease Rules in Manitoba: What Students Need to Know

Are you a student renting off-campus in Manitoba? Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant is key to a hassle-free student housing experience. Manitoba has specific laws and protections in place for student tenants, whether you’re renting from a private landlord or through a university-affiliated residence. This guide breaks down the essentials — from security deposits and lease terms to repairs and moving out — so student tenants know exactly what to expect in Manitoba.

How Student Housing Leases Work in Manitoba

Student housing leases in Manitoba are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. Whether you rent from a private landlord, through a university housing office, or share accommodation, most residential tenancies fall under this Act. However, there are some exceptions, especially if you live in certain university-operated residences — double-check with your institution for their specific rules.

• Fixed-term leases: Often align with the academic year (e.g., September to April). Read your agreement carefully to know when your lease starts and ends.
• Periodic leases: Month-to-month tenancies are also common, offering more flexibility if your plans change.
• Co-signer requirements: Some landlords ask students to have a guarantor, like a parent. This must be stated up-front in your lease.

Deposits and Fees

Landlords in Manitoba can only ask for a security deposit — also known as a damage deposit — of up to one-half of one month’s rent. This deposit must be held in trust and returned with interest when you move out, as long as the unit is left in good condition^[1].

Before handing over any money, find out exactly what is required. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Moving In: Inspections & Your Rights

Before moving in, it’s your right to do a property inspection with your landlord. Manitoba law doesn’t require a written inspection report, but it’s a good practice — take photos or use a checklist. This will help avoid disputes over damage later, especially when it’s time to get your deposit back.

Find practical tips for a smooth arrival at your student rental in Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

After You Move In

Once in your unit, you have both rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act. You must pay rent on time and take care of the property, while your landlord is responsible for maintaining a safe, healthy environment. If you share your rental or sublet, always review your lease agreement for rules about guests, overnight stays, or changes to occupancy.

Wondering about your legal protections? See the full details in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Ending Your Lease or Moving Out Early

Many student tenants want to move out when the school year ends or if circumstances change. Here’s what you need to know:

• For fixed-term leases, you are committed until the end date unless the landlord agrees in writing to an early termination or you assign/sublet your lease. You may not automatically have the right to break your lease early for summer break.
• If you’re on a month-to-month lease, you must provide at least one full month’s written notice before you plan to move out, using the proper form.

Important Forms for Student Tenants

• Notice of Termination by Tenant – Form 1: Use this form to officially end your lease by giving proper written notice. Download it directly from the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) forms page. Example: If you’re graduating and finishing your lease in April, complete Form 1 and submit it to your landlord before March 1.
• Request for Approval of Sublet or Assignment – Form 5: Needed if you want to sublet your place for the summer while you’re away or transfer your lease. Available through the RTB.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Health Issues

Your landlord must keep your rental in a good state of repair and meet health and safety standards. If there are urgent problems (like plumbing, heat, or security issues), report them immediately to your landlord. If they do not fix the issue, you may contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for help.

If you have unresolved health or safety issues in your rental, act quickly! Document problems, send written requests, and keep records of your communications.

What Else Should Student Tenants Know?

• Landlords must provide written notice for any rent increase. There is a regulated amount and required notice period in Manitoba.
• If you move out, perform a final inspection with your landlord to avoid disputes about damage and get your deposit back.
• Always get receipts for any payments you make — rent, deposit, or fees.

Explore more rental options during your search with Canada's best rental listings platform — find apartments, houses, and rooms for rent across the country, tailored for student needs.

FAQ: Student Tenancy in Manitoba

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a student?
   No, landlords cannot discriminate based on your status as a student. However, they may ask for a co-signer, proof of income, or references.
2. Do I get my security deposit back automatically when I move out?
   Your landlord must return your deposit with interest within two weeks after you move out, unless there is unpaid rent or damages. Always leave the unit clean and document its condition.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t make urgent repairs?
   Contact your landlord in writing first. If they don’t respond promptly, you can make an application to the Residential Tenancies Branch for help.
4. Can I sublet my room if I go home for the summer?
   Yes, with landlord approval. Use Form 5 (Request for Approval of Sublet or Assignment) and follow the process set by the RTB.
5. Are all student residences covered under Manitoba’s rental laws?
   Most university- and college-owned residences may have separate rules, but off-campus rentals and private leases are generally covered under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Student Tenants

• Know your lease type and terms before signing, and get everything in writing.
• Understand your rights on deposits, repairs, and ending a lease — and always use the correct provincial forms.
• If in doubt, reach out to Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch for reliable answers or help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants in Manitoba

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) – Advice, complaint forms, tenancy rules, and dispute resolution.
• Official Manitoba RTB Forms – Download notice, sublet, and complaint forms.
• Legal Aid Manitoba – Support for eligible low-income tenants.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba – Detailed overview of rights and obligations in the province.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch

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