Manitoba Tenant Rights: Landlord Showings & Privacy Rules

When your landlord wants to show your rental unit in Manitoba—often to prospective tenants or buyers—it's important to know your privacy rights and the legal entry process. Manitoba's laws protect tenants and set specific rules for when and how landlords can access your home for showings.

What Are a Landlord’s Rights to Show a Rental Unit in Manitoba?

Under Manitoba’s residential tenancy laws, a landlord can enter your rental unit to show it to prospective tenants or buyers, but strict conditions apply. The main law covering these rules is the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).^[1] The Residential Tenancies Branch oversees rentals in the province.

Notice and Entry Guidelines

• Minimum Notice: Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering for a showing.
• Permissible Times: Entry is only allowed between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., unless you agree otherwise.
• Reasonable Frequency: Showings must be arranged at reasonable times and cannot be excessive or harassing.

The notice must include the date, reason for entry (e.g., to show the unit), and time period during which the landlord will enter.

Showing the Unit: Tenant Rights and Best Practices

• You do not have to leave your home during showings, but you can choose to be present.
• Your landlord cannot force multiple showings in a way that disrupts your daily life.
• Photos or video for listings generally require your permission to protect your privacy.

If you feel that the showings are too frequent, or your privacy is being affected, you have the right to file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch.

What Happens If the Landlord Fails to Follow the Rules?

If your landlord enters your unit without proper notice, outside permitted hours, or without a valid reason, they're breaching the Residential Tenancies Act. You can:

• Discuss the issue directly and remind your landlord of Manitoba’s rules
• If the problem continues, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch

For more on Manitoba tenant and landlord rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Required Forms and How to Use Them

In most cases, landlords use a written note, email, or text that clearly sets out the entry details. Manitoba does not require a specific form for entry notice, but it must be in writing. If there is a dispute about entry, you may use:

• Form: Application for Order of Possession (RTB: COM-01) — Used if serious entry or privacy violations make your tenancy unbearable and you want to end your lease early. Example: You’ve repeatedly experienced illegal entries for showings and feel unsafe.
• Form: Application for Order (RTB: COM-02) — Used to request an order about landlord conduct or compliance with entry rules. Example: You ask the Residential Tenancies Branch to order your landlord to stop illegal entries.

Submit these forms by mail, in person, or online through the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch portal.

Your Rights After Giving or Receiving Notice

If you or your landlord has given notice to end the tenancy, you do not give up your right to privacy or your requirement for proper notice. If you are planning to move, review How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant for a smooth exit process.

Practical Tips for Tenants

• Keep valuables out of sight during showings
• Put in writing any concerns about frequency or timing of showings
• If possible, agree on a regular showing schedule

If you encounter other landlord-tenant issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for additional guidance.

For those searching for a new home after moving out, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme quickly and easily, with listings tailored to your needs.

FAQ: Tenant Rights During Landlord Showings in Manitoba

1. Can a landlord show my apartment without notice in Manitoba?
   No. Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice with the reason and time period.
2. Do I have to leave my home during showings?
   No. You can choose to be present during any showing.
3. Can showings happen in the evening or weekends?
   Showings must be between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. unless you agree in writing to a different time.
4. What should I do if my landlord enters illegally?
   Document the incident and contact the Residential Tenancies Branch to file a complaint.
5. Is my privacy protected if my landlord takes photos for a listing?
   Your permission should be sought before any photos are taken inside your unit.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your landlord must give written notice and follow specific rules for all showings.
• Your privacy matters—illegal entries can be challenged with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
• Keep records and take action if you believe your rights are not respected.

Knowing your rights about showings helps you stay protected and comfortable in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Official body for tenancy disputes and information
• Tenant support: Call 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg) or 1-800-782-8403 (toll-free in Manitoba)
• Provincial tenant facts: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
• Official forms and applications for Manitoba tenants

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

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