Renovations can disrupt daily life, create safety concerns and raise questions about tenant rights. If you rent in Manitoba, you have protections about notice, access, repairs and temporary relocation during building work. This guide explains what tenants should expect when a landlord plans renovations, what counts as reasonable notice, how to document problems, and when to use official dispute or compensation processes under Manitoba rules. It also shows practical steps to protect your health and belongings, how to ask for reasonable adjustments, and where to find the formal forms and help you may need.
What landlords must tell tenants
Landlords should provide clear written notice before work begins describing the scope, schedule and expected disruptions. Notice gives you time to prepare, ask questions and, if necessary, request accommodations or temporary relocation. If work requires entry into your unit, the landlord must follow provincial requirements for notice and timing.
Notice, entry and privacy
Manitoba rules require landlords to provide advance notice before entering a rental unit except in emergencies. Exact notice periods can depend on the reason for entry and the timing of the work. If a landlord schedules inspections or contractors, they should give a clear time window and follow any written notice procedures you and the landlord previously agreed on.
- Ask for a written schedule of work and the expected start and finish dates so you know when contractors will be on site.
- Confirm how entry will be handled, whether you need to be present, and how keys or access will be secured.
- Keep records of notices, emails and messages about entry times and the work planned.
Health, safety and habitability
Major renovations can affect heating, water, ventilation and safety systems. If work creates hazards (mold risk, lack of heat, no hot water, exposed wiring), the landlord must address these promptly. Tenants concerned about health risks should raise the issue in writing and request immediate interim measures.
For general tenant health and safety guidance, see the official overview on Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Repairs, temporary relocation and compensation
If renovations make your unit uninhabitable, discuss temporary relocation and compensation with your landlord. Compensation may cover moving costs, alternate accommodation, and rent adjustments for the period you cannot use the unit. Document damage or loss and keep receipts for any expenses you expect to claim.
- Request a written plan for repairs and ask whether the landlord will offer temporary housing or a rent reduction.
- Keep receipts for hotel stays, storage, and essential purchases to support any compensation request.
- Take time-stamped photos and videos of the condition before, during and after work to document issues.
Filing complaints and dispute resolution
If you cannot resolve renovations issues with your landlord, you can apply for dispute resolution through Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch [1]. Use the branch to ask for orders about repairs, access, compensation or move-out conditions. Before filing, gather written notices, photographs, receipts and any communication you had with your landlord.
Relevant legislation includes the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) which explains rights and remedies for tenants and landlords [2]. The branch also provides official forms and instructions for filing an application [3].
Related tenant guidance
If the renovation involves routine repair responsibilities or emergency fixes, review rules about landlord and tenant repair duties in the guide Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. That resource clarifies who pays for what and when a repair becomes urgent.
You can also look for alternative rentals if you need to relocate temporarily; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme may help identify short-term options quickly.
FAQ
- Do landlords need my permission to renovate?
- Landlords do not need permission for necessary repairs, but they must provide proper written notice and follow entry rules; significant changes that affect tenancy terms may require additional notice.
- Can I refuse entry for contractors?
- You can refuse entry if the landlord did not provide required notice, except in emergencies; otherwise, landlords may enter for legitimate repairs after giving proper notice.
- What if renovations damage my belongings?
- If landlord negligence damages your property, document the loss, notify the landlord in writing and consider applying for dispute resolution to seek compensation.
How-To
- Document the issue with dated photos, videos and a short written timeline describing events and notices.
- Send a clear written request to the landlord outlining the problem, your preferred remedy and any immediate health or safety concerns.
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for guidance and confirm which official form to file if you cannot resolve the matter directly [1].
- File the application or complaint within required timelines, attach supporting evidence and keep copies of everything you submit.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch, Manitoba
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- RTB forms and applications (Manitoba)
