Tenant Rights: Protecting Against Discrimination in Manitoba

Every tenant in Manitoba deserves to live free from discrimination—whether you're renting a private apartment, sharing a home with roommates, or subletting a room. Understanding your rights under Manitoba law can help ensure fair treatment, especially in shared housing. This article explains which types of discrimination are illegal, how to take action, and which official tools and supports are available for tenants in Manitoba.

What Counts as Tenant Discrimination in Manitoba?

In Manitoba, it is illegal for landlords—and for tenants acting as landlords in shared housing arrangements—to discriminate or harass you based on the protected grounds set out in the Manitoba Human Rights Code^[1]. The law applies to most rental arrangements, including apartment rentals, rooming houses, and shared housing situations.

• Race, nationality or ethnicity
• Religion or creed
• Age
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
• Marital or family status
• Source of income (such as social assistance)
• Disability
• Other protected personal characteristics

This means a landlord (or a main leaseholder in a shared house) cannot reject you, increase your rent, kick you out, or treat you differently just because of these factors.

Examples of Discrimination in Shared Housing

• Refusing to rent you a room because you receive social assistance
• Setting different rules or curfews for you based on your religion
• Evicting you for reasons related to gender identity or family status

If you feel you're being treated unfairly due to a protected characteristic, you may have legal grounds to take action.

Your Rights and Protections as a Tenant

Your rights are protected by Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act^[2] and the Manitoba Human Rights Code. Both apply to most renters and shared accommodations, though special rules can apply in certain cases (such as when sharing with the homeowner who lives on site).

• You have the right to equal treatment in housing without discrimination or harassment.
• Landlords must offer the same terms, rules, and amenities to all tenants, unless a valid exception applies.
• It is illegal to post rental ads that deny or restrict based on protected grounds.
• If you're on the lease and share responsibilities, you cannot be penalized for your identity or personal situation.

For additional information on rights and obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What to Do if You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you've faced discrimination as a renter or in a shared accommodation, there are several steps you can take:

• Document everything: Save emails, texts, or ads, and keep records of conversations.
• Discuss the issue: If you feel comfortable, talk to the landlord or roommate about your concerns. Sometimes misunderstandings can be resolved directly.
• Seek advice: Contact tenant support agencies or the Manitoba Human Rights Commission for guidance.
• File a complaint: If the issue can't be resolved, you may choose to submit a formal complaint.

If you are unsure if your situation counts as discrimination, tenant advocacy groups or the Manitoba Human Rights Commission can help you assess your options.

Filing a Complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission

You can file a complaint if you have been discriminated against in housing. Submit the Intake Questionnaire to begin the process.

• Form: Intake Questionnaire
• Use: Complete this form if you believe you have experienced discrimination under the Manitoba Human Rights Code in a rental or shared housing situation.
• How to apply: Download and fill in the form, then send it to the Commission by email, mail, fax, or in person. The Commission will review your information and advise on next steps.
• Official source: Manitoba Human Rights Commission – Making a Complaint

More information about tenant and landlord regulations in the province is available at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

The Role of the Residential Tenancies Branch

The Residential Tenancies Branch handles most tenancy issues such as rent increases, evictions, or deposit disputes. Although they do not rule directly on human rights complaints, the Branch helps ensure your leasing rights are respected and can mediate certain conflicts in shared housing situations.

For example, if you believe you're being evicted unfairly, you can contact the Branch and potentially use one of their forms to appeal or resolve the issue through mediation.

Additional Tenant Advice

If you are also facing issues such as repairs, rental increases, or moving out, our guide Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them provides a list of common rental problems and solutions.

Want an easy way to search for shared rental homes or pet-friendly rentals with clear listings? Search Canadian rentals with interactive map view for your next place.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Discrimination in Manitoba

1. What types of housing discrimination are illegal in Manitoba?
   Discrimination based on race, religion, sex, age, family status, disability, and other protected characteristics is not allowed under Manitoba law.
2. Can a roommate or main tenant discriminate against me?
   If your roommate is effectively acting as a landlord (e.g., controlling the lease and choosing who can live in the home), they must still comply with Manitoba's human rights laws.
3. What should I do if I am turned away from a rental due to my source of income?
   This is considered discrimination under the Manitoba Human Rights Code. Document the situation and file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.
4. Who handles tenant discrimination complaints in Manitoba?
   The Manitoba Human Rights Commission investigates and enforces claims of discrimination in housing, while the Residential Tenancies Branch handles most other tenant-landlord disputes.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant?
   Review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for up-to-date information about your legal protections.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Discrimination in rental housing is illegal and can be reported to the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.
• Document issues, seek advice, and file an official complaint if necessary.
• Your rights extend to shared housing and roommate arrangements, not just traditional rentals.

Understanding your rights protects you and helps create fairer communities for all Manitoba tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Human Rights Commission – Official Website & Complaint Forms
• Residential Tenancies Branch – Official Housing Policies and Resolution Services
• Legal Aid Manitoba – Tenant advocacy and legal support
• Read more: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Manitoba Human Rights Code: Full Text
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba): Full Text

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