Top 5 Tenant Insights on Discrimination & Accessibility in Manitoba

Understanding your rights as a tenant in Manitoba is crucial, particularly when it comes to discrimination and accessibility. Manitoba law protects renters from unfair treatment and ensures that rental housing is accessible and inclusive. This guide will walk you through the key things every Manitoba tenant should know about discrimination and accessibility in housing, helping you safeguard your rights and take action when needed.

1. Discrimination is Prohibited Under Manitoba Law

Landlords in Manitoba are not allowed to discriminate against tenants or applicants based on protected grounds under The Human Rights Code (Manitoba). These grounds include:

• Race, ethnic origin, or nationality
• Religion or creed
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
• Marital or family status
• Disability or age
• Source of income (such as social assistance)

This means landlords cannot refuse to rent, terminate a tenancy, or treat you differently because you belong to one of these protected groups. If you face such treatment during your rental search, remember: you have options to challenge it.

2. Accessibility: Your Right to Reasonable Accommodation

If you have a disability, you are legally entitled to reasonable accommodation from your landlord. This could mean allowing service animals in "no pet" buildings, installing accessibility modifications, or making changes to building rules so you can enjoy your home. Accommodations must not cause "undue hardship" for landlords, but most requests are supported by law.

For more insights on your rights after moving in, check out What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

3. How to Make a Discrimination or Accessibility Complaint

If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission (MHRC). Here’s how it works:

• Complete the Human Rights Complaint Form, available from the MHRC (download here).
• Include the details of the incident and any supporting documents.
• Your complaint must usually be filed within one year of the discrimination event.

The MHRC may mediate your case or, if needed, refer it for a public hearing. It’s helpful to keep written records and evidence, such as emails or rental ads.

4. The Residential Tenancies Branch and Relevant Legislation

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba handles most landlord and tenant matters, including disputes about repairs, rent, and tenancy agreements. For discrimination, the MHRC is the right authority, but the RTB can assist with many tenancy-related matters affected by accessibility needs or fairness.

Key legislation includes The Residential Tenancies Act and The Human Rights Code.
Learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a Manitoba tenant in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

5. Accessibility Features and Health & Safety

Rental properties in Manitoba must meet basic health, safety, and maintenance standards that support accessibility for everyone. If you encounter hazards—like blocked wheelchair ramps or broken elevators—report these to your landlord and, if needed, to the RTB.

For an overview on related maintenance issues, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

You can also Browse apartments for rent in Canada that meet your accessibility needs by filtering listings or contacting landlords with your requirements.

1. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because of a disability?
   No. Manitoba’s Human Rights Code protects you from discrimination based on disability. Landlords must also make reasonable accommodations unless it would cause them undue hardship.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t allow my service animal?
   Request accommodation in writing. If your landlord refuses, you can file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission and provide documentation (like a doctor’s letter or service animal ID).
3. Who enforces tenant rights related to discrimination in Manitoba?
   The Manitoba Human Rights Commission enforces anti-discrimination laws, while the Residential Tenancies Branch addresses tenancy disputes that involve accessibility or maintenance.
4. What forms do I use to report discrimination?
   Use the Human Rights Complaint Form available from the Manitoba Human Rights Commission. Include all the incident details and any supporting evidence.

1. How do I request an accessibility modification from my landlord?
   
   • Step 1: Identify your specific accommodation or modification needs.
   • Step 2: Prepare a written request to your landlord, explaining your needs and providing documentation if possible (such as a medical note).
   • Step 3: Submit your request and keep a copy for your records.
   • Step 4: If your landlord refuses, follow up in writing. If still unresolved, contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission to file a complaint.
2. How can I file a discrimination complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission?
   • Step 1: Download and complete the Human Rights Complaint Form.
   • Step 2: Collect and attach any supporting evidence (written communications, notices, photos, etc.).
   • Step 3: Submit your form to the MHRC online, by mail, or in person.
   • Step 4: Await follow-up. The MHRC may mediate or investigate your complaint.

• If you experience discrimination or accessibility issues, document everything and file complaints promptly.
• You are legally entitled to reasonable accommodation in your rental housing.
• Discrimination-based eviction or refusal to rent is against Manitoba law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Human Rights Commission – For discrimination and accommodation complaints
• Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba – For tenancy disputes, repairs, and maintenance issues
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba – A summary of key tenant and landlord rights
• Manitoba Accessibility Office – Support and resources for persons with disabilities

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1. The Human Rights Code (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) - Manitoba Government
3. The Residential Tenancies Act
4. Manitoba Human Rights Commission – Complaint Forms

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