Tenant Rights During Condo Conversion in Manitoba

If you’re renting in Manitoba and your building is being converted into condominiums, it’s important to understand how this affects your home, your rights, and your next steps. Manitoba has specific laws under The Residential Tenancies Act to protect tenants caught in these special situations. This guide provides a clear summary of what tenants should expect, including timelines, required official forms, and ways to respond if you’re asked to move.

What Does a Condo Conversion Mean for Tenants?

When a landlord decides to convert a rental building into condominiums (condos), each rental unit can be sold to individual owners. This can impact tenants in several ways:

• Some tenants may be asked to move out if the unit is being sold to someone who intends to live there.
• Notice periods and other protections are defined by law to give tenants time to plan.
• Special rules prevent landlords from ending tenancies for simply offering condos for sale—in most cases, the tenancy ends only when the unit is bought by a new owner who wants to live there.

If you want to know more about your basic rights during rental changes, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Legal Protections for Tenants in Manitoba

In Manitoba, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) governs rental situations, including condo conversions^[1]. If your landlord plans to convert your building, they must follow rigorous notice and approval procedures set out in the law.

Required Advance Notice

Before a landlord can convert a rental building to condos and require tenants to move, they must first obtain approval from the Residential Tenancies Branch and provide affected tenants with proper written notice.

• Notice period: Tenants must usually receive at least 180 days’ written notice that the tenancy will end due to a condo conversion. This notice must be in a prescribed format.
• The notice must include details about the conversion, timelines, and appeal options.

When Can Tenancy Be Ended During a Conversion?

A tenancy can usually only be ended if a unit is sold and the purchaser (or their close family member) intends to move in. The landlord cannot require you to leave simply because the condo is being listed for sale. They must provide you with the official written notice and allow the proper amount of time for you to relocate.

Official Forms You Might See or Use

The Residential Tenancies Branch uses standard forms to issue and receive notices regarding condo conversions. Here are some examples:

• Notice to End Tenancy for Condominium Conversion (Form 8E)

This form is given to tenants by landlords when a unit is sold to a purchaser who intends to occupy it. It explains your move-out deadline, your right to dispute the notice, and further instructions. Tenants can access more about this process and download forms directly from the Residential Tenancies Branch Forms page.^[2]

• Application for Order of Possession (Form 7)

If there’s a dispute, landlords may apply for an Order of Possession if a tenant does not leave. Tenants can also use this form to respond to such applications. Learn more and find the forms on the official forms site.^[2]

Your Rights: Moving, Compensation & Security Deposits

During a condo conversion:

• You may be entitled to compensation depending on your situation and length of tenancy.
• You must be allowed the full 180 days’ notice before being required to move, unless you and the landlord agree otherwise in writing.
• If you move out, you are eligible to get your security deposit back (with interest), assuming the unit is left in good condition. For tips on this, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Security deposit disputes or delays are a common concern—refer to Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for a detailed explanation.

Key Tenant Actions During a Conversion

• Read any notices carefully—pay close attention to timelines and any rights to apply for review.
• If you disagree with a notice, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for a review within the given deadline (details and forms are included in the official notice).
• Document property condition and communication with your landlord from when you receive notice until you leave.
• Plan your move with the notice period, and begin searching for new rental housing early. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to make your next move easier.

Who Regulates Condo Conversions and Tenancy Issues in Manitoba?

All tenancy matters, including condo conversions, are overseen by the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (“RTB”). This is the government authority responsible for enforcing the Residential Tenancies Act, resolving disputes, and ensuring notice requirements are met.

FAQ: Manitoba Tenants & Condo Conversions

1. How much notice does my landlord have to give if my unit is being converted to a condo?
   Landlords must give at least 180 days’ written notice if a purchaser intends to occupy the condo. Different rules apply in rare circumstances, but this is the standard minimum.
2. Can I dispute a notice to vacate due to a condo conversion?
   Yes. Tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch to dispute the notice or extend the time period, but must act quickly using the official forms and deadlines provided.
3. Will I get my security deposit back when I move out after a condo conversion?
   Yes, provided there is no damage or rent owing. You’re entitled to your deposit with interest after moving, as per Manitoba law.
4. Do I have to move as soon as the building converts, or only if my unit sells?
   Usually, you only need to move once a unit sells and the new owner wants to live there. Listing the condo for sale doesn’t end your tenancy by itself.
5. Where can I get help if I have questions about condo conversions?
   Contact the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch, or reach out to a local tenant advocacy group for free, confidential advice.

Key Takeaways for Tenants Facing Condo Conversion

• You’re protected by strong notice requirements and can’t be forced out until the law’s process is followed.
• Keep careful records, respond to all notices, and know your right to dispute unfair actions.
• There are resources to help, including the Residential Tenancies Branch and helpful online guides.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Advice, forms, dispute resolution, and updates on conversion policies
• Official RTB Forms & Notices – Download applications or dispute forms
• Legal Help: Legal Aid Manitoba – Tenant Law Services
• General tips and guides: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Official Forms

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