Living in Manitoba, renters have clear rights when their home needs repairs. This guide explains what landlords must fix, how to ask for maintenance, emergency steps, and what to do if repairs are delayed or refused. You ll learn practical steps for documenting problems, using official forms, and when to contact the Residential Tenancies Branch or refer to Manitoba tenancy law. Plain-language examples show how to write a repair request, keep records, and protect your right to a safe, habitable rental. This article is for tenants and renters in Manitoba who want straightforward advice on repairs and maintenance responsibilities. If you are unsure about timelines or legal steps, this guide points to the forms and the tribunal that can help.
Rights and responsibilities for repairs in Manitoba
In Manitoba, landlords are responsible for maintaining rental premises in a state of good repair and compliance with health and safety standards. If a repair is needed, begin by notifying your landlord in writing and keeping a copy for your records. If the landlord does not respond or the repair is urgent, you can contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for information or dispute resolution.[1] The province s tenancy legislation explains landlord obligations and tenant remedies.[2]
When landlords must fix problems
Landlords must repair problems that affect habitability: heat, water, plumbing, electrical safety, structural issues, and pest infestations caused by building conditions. Normal wear and tear is the landlord s responsibility; tenants must not cause deliberate damage.
- Heat or loss of heating in winter
- Loss of running water or major plumbing failures
- Electrical problems creating fire or shock risk
- Major leaks, mould linked to building defects, or structural hazards
How to request repairs
Follow a clear, written process so there is a record. If possible, include dates, a description, and photos. Give the landlord a reasonable chance to respond; what is "reasonable" depends on the urgency. If repairs are not made, you can use official complaint or dispute routes and forms.[3]
- Send a written repair request describing the problem and when it began
- Keep a log of communications, dates, photos and receipts
- Arrange reasonable access for repairs and agree on appointment times
- For emergencies, call emergency services and notify the landlord immediately
If repairs are delayed and the unit becomes unsafe, consider temporary measures to protect health and safety and discuss options with the landlord or the Residential Tenancies Branch.[1]
When tenants can act or seek remedies
If a landlord refuses to fix serious problems, tenants can file for dispute resolution with the provincial tenancy tribunal. In some cases tenants may be able to arrange a repair and deduct the cost from rent, but this is high-risk unless the legislation or tribunal process explicitly allows it; always check the local rules first.
If you need to find a new rental because repairs make the unit unlivable, you can also search listings to compare options and timelines. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can I withhold rent if the landlord won t make repairs?
- Withholding rent is risky and usually not permitted; follow the official dispute process and get advice before withholding rent.
- How long should landlords take to complete repairs?
- Urgent repairs (heat, water, safety hazards) should be addressed immediately or within hours to days; non-urgent issues should be fixed within a reasonable time depending on the problem.
- What if repairs create unsafe conditions?
- If a repair makes conditions unsafe, leave the area if necessary, document the issue, and contact emergency services and the landlord; then pursue dispute resolution if needed.
How-To
- Report the issue in writing to your landlord with photos and dates
- Keep records of all communications and any expenses you incur
- If unresolved, file a Request for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch
- Attend the dispute resolution or hearing with your evidence
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
- RTB forms and guides
