Can I be evicted immediately if my landlord’s property is seized?

No, even if your landlord’s property is seized, you have the right to receive proper written notice and legal process before you can be evicted in Manitoba.

What happens to my security deposit during a property seizure in Manitoba?

Your security deposit is transferred to the new owner and must be handled by law. It should be returned according to standard procedures when your tenancy ends.

Who should I pay rent to after a seizure in Manitoba?

Continue to pay rent to your original landlord until you receive official, written instructions from the new owner or the Residential Tenancies Branch.

Can the new owner change my lease terms after seizure in Manitoba?

The new owner is bound by your existing lease and must give proper legal notice if they wish to alter or end the agreement.

Tenant Rights When a Rental Property Is Seized in Manitoba

Special Tenancy Situations Manitoba published June 20, 2025

If you’re renting a home in Manitoba and discover your property is being seized, it’s normal to feel anxious and overwhelmed. Seizure situations are uncommon, but knowing your rights under Manitoba law is crucial. This guide explains what tenants should do, your protections, and where to find help if your rental property is seized by a lender, government, or court order.

What Does “Seizure” Mean for a Tenant?

Seizure usually means that the property owner (your landlord) has lost control of the property—perhaps because they defaulted on a mortgage, owed taxes, or have a judgment against them. The home may be repossessed by a bank, government, or a court-appointed official. As a tenant, you’re not at fault, and Manitoba’s tenancy laws offer some safeguards for your tenancy.

Your Rights and Protections Under Manitoba Law

In Manitoba, tenant rights are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba^[1]. If your rental is caught up in a seizure, you generally have the right to continue your tenancy unless the new owner or authority follows proper legal steps to end it.

Your lease usually continues: If the property changes hands, your existing rental agreement typically remains valid.
Notice is required for eviction: No one (including a lender or government) can force you out without proper notice and legal process, which is regulated by the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba.^[2]
Deposit remains protected: Any deposit you paid must be handled according to law, even if ownership changes. For more about this, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

In summary, most of your everyday tenant protections remain in place during and after a property seizure.

When Can Tenancy Be Terminated After a Seizure?

If the new owner, such as a lender or government body, wishes to end your tenancy, they must serve you the same notices as a regular landlord would. Notice periods and valid reasons for termination are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act (see footnote).

You cannot be evicted without due process—an official Order of Possession may be required.
Ensure you receive all communications in writing. If you’re unsure, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for advice.

Steps to Take if Your Rental Home Is Seized

If you receive notice or suspect a seizure is happening, here’s how to protect your rights:

Request official documentation: Always ask for copies of any legal notice about the seizure.
Continue paying your rent: Do not stop paying rent unless you get written directions from the Residential Tenancies Branch or the actual court-ordered new owner. If rent payment details change, get this in writing.
Clarify who owns the property: The new owner or official should inform you in writing about any changes in rent payment and tenancy details.
Seek advice early: If unsure, contact provincial resources or advocacy services immediately.

It’s natural to feel uncertain in these cases. Staying informed and acting promptly helps keep your tenancy secure.

Key Forms and Where to Find Them

Notice to End Tenancy (Form RTB-2): Used if the new owner wishes to end your tenancy. They must use the official notice and provide the required amount of time. See the form and instructions from the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch - Official Forms.^[3]
Tenant’s Application for Order of Possession (Form RTB-9): If you believe a termination is unfair or you haven’t been given the correct notice, you may apply to the branch for help. See the application forms here.^[3]
If you’re threatened with eviction without proper notice, keep all records and correspondence and contact the Branch for help right away.

You may also find further details in the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained guide, especially regarding your responsibilities during a change of ownership.

What Happens to Your Lease and Deposit?

Even if your landlord loses the property, your tenancy often transfers to the new owner automatically. Your lease does not become invalid just because of a seizure. Your rental deposit should also remain protected and must be transferred to the new landlord who acquires the property.

For more details about general rights in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

If you’re searching for new accommodation because of a property seizure, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily online to find a safe home quickly.

FAQs: Manitoba Tenant Rights in Seizure Situations

Can I be evicted immediately if my landlord’s property is seized?
No, even in a seizure, you have the right to proper written notice and legal process before you can be evicted.
What happens to my security deposit during a property seizure in Manitoba?
Your deposit transfers to the new owner and must be returned under the same legal requirements when your tenancy ends.
Who should I pay rent to after a seizure?
Continue paying rent to your original landlord until you get official, written instructions from the new owner or the Residential Tenancies Branch.
Can the new owner change my lease terms?
The new owner must follow the existing lease or give proper notice if they want to change or end it.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

Your lease and rights are still valid during property seizure.
The new owner must follow Manitoba eviction rules and notice periods.
Keep paying rent and seek help fast if you receive unclear or threatening notices.

Always prioritize communication and document every step to protect yourself during uncertain property situations.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Branch — For questions, forms, and dispute resolution in Manitoba.
Manitoba Tenant-Landlord Cooperation Office: 204-945-2476 (Winnipeg), Toll-free 1-800-782-8403
Legal Aid Manitoba — Free legal assistance if you qualify.
Community Legal Education Association Manitoba: https://www.communitylegal.mb.ca/