Tenant Rights on Landlord Entry in Manitoba

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Manitoba 3 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Manitoba

As a tenant in Manitoba, understanding your rights regarding landlord entry into your rental unit is crucial. The Residential Tenancies Act in Manitoba outlines specific scenarios and conditions under which a landlord is legally allowed to enter a rental property, ensuring tenants' privacy is respected.

Key points: emergencies allow entry without notice, while non-emergencies require written 24-hour notice stating the reason and time (between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.). Keep a copy of any notice you receive and note the entry date/time.

When Can a Landlord Enter?

In Manitoba, landlords have specific conditions that permit entry into a rental unit. These include:

  • Emergencies: Landlords can enter your rental unit without notice if there’s an emergency, such as a fire or flood.
  • With Notice: For non-emergencies, landlords must provide written notice at least 24 hours in advance, stating the reason and time of entry, which should be between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
  • Agreement: If you have agreed for your landlord to enter your unit for a particular reason.
Common takeaway: entries must be limited to defined purposes like maintenance, repairs, or showing the unit. If in doubt, ask for a written schedule or addendum to your lease clarifying entry rights.

Legitimate Reasons for Entry

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What to Do If Entry Rights Are Violated

If a landlord enters your unit without proper notice or an authorized reason, you have options to resolve the issue:

Document the incident with dates and times, keep notes or photos if safe, and contact RTB to explore whether a formal complaint is warranted.

Filing a Complaint

If discussions with your landlord do not resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the RTB. This process involves submitting a complaint form outlining the breach of the tenancy agreement or legislation.

The Residential Tenancies Branch

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) oversees tenancy issues in Manitoba. They provide forms and guidance for tenants facing entry violations or other disputes.

The RTB provides forms and guidance for tenants; when pursuing action, gather evidence (notices, dates, times) and keep copies for your records.

Provincial Legislation

In Manitoba, tenant and landlord interactions are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act. This legislation outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, promoting a balanced rental environment.

Note: the Act sets baseline rights, but your lease or local rules may provide extra protections; verify with the RTB or a tenant clinic if entries seem unusual.

For more detailed insights, consider reviewing specific Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Understanding Your Lease

After signing any rental agreement, understanding what you and your landlord have agreed upon is key. You might want to visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for relevant tips and insights.

Finding Your Next Home

Looking for your next rental? Discover all-in-one rental site for Canadian cities for options available in your area.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  • Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for official advice and support.
  • Consult local tenant rights advocacy groups for additional guidance.

  1. What can I do if my landlord enters without notice?

    You should contact the RTB and seek advice on whether you can file a formal complaint.

  2. How much notice must a landlord give for entry?

    Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice for non-emergency entry.

  3. Is a landlord allowed to enter for repairs?

    Yes, after providing advance notice and agreeing on a reasonable time with the tenant.

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Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell

Senior Housing Rights Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Sarah has spent over a decade researching tenant legislation across Western Canada, with a particular focus on British Columbia and Alberta. She holds a certificate in Housing Policy from Simon Fraser University and has contributed to several housing advocacy organizations.