Who is responsible for mould and moisture?
In Manitoba landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the building and keeping rental units fit for habitation under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)[4]. Tenants must take reasonable care of the unit and report defects promptly so landlords can fix structural leaks, plumbing failures, or building-related sources of moisture. If a mould problem stems from tenant behaviour or neglect, a tenant may bear some responsibility for damage. For guidance on health and safety when renting, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
What tenants should do right away
- Contact your landlord or property manager immediately by phone and follow up in writing within 72 hours.
- Take dated photos and videos of the mould, water stains and any damaged belongings; keep a private copy of all records.
- Send a written repair request describing the issue, where it is, and ask for repairs within a reasonable timeframe.
- Allow reasonable access for inspection and repairs while protecting your privacy and belongings.
- If the landlord does not act, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution with supporting evidence[1].
Repairs, timelines and dispute options
Landlords must arrange repairs for building-related problems within a reasonable time once notified. If a repair is urgent, contact your landlord immediately and request emergency action; if the landlord does not respond, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for help and start a formal claim using the Application for Dispute Resolution[2]. For health information about mould exposure, see Manitoba Health guidance[3]. For more about who fixes what and common timelines, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. If you need to find alternate rental options while an issue is being resolved, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
Official forms and when to use them
- Application for Dispute Resolution — use this form to ask the Residential Tenancies Branch to resolve unresolved repair or habitability disputes. Example: after reporting a leak and waiting two weeks with no repair, include dated photos, copies of written requests, and any medical notes when you file the application.[2]
FAQ
- Who pays for mould cleanup in Manitoba?
- Landlords are generally responsible for repairs that relate to building maintenance, but tenants must report problems promptly and avoid causing damage; disputes can be decided by the Residential Tenancies Branch.[1]
- Can I withhold rent if mould isn’t fixed?
- Withholding rent is risky and not generally recommended; use the RTB dispute process or request an order rather than withholding rent without legal advice.
- What evidence helps my case?
- Clear photos, dated written repair requests, medical notes if health is affected, and records of landlord responses help when applying for dispute resolution.[1]
How-To
- Identify and photograph mould and moisture sources, noting dates and locations.
- Notify your landlord in writing with a clear request for repair and a reasonable deadline.
- Follow up by phone and keep notes of all conversations.
- Allow inspection and agreed repairs while protecting your privacy and valuables.
- If repairs aren’t completed, get quotes or estimates if needed and keep them as evidence.
- Apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch with your documentation if the landlord does not fix the issue.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Report mould early and document everything to protect your health and rights.
- The Residential Tenancies Branch handles unresolved repair disputes for Manitoba tenants.
- Keep copies of all communications, photos, and medical notes as evidence for a claim.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch - Manitoba
- Residential Tenancies Branch forms
- Manitoba Health: Mould in indoor environments
