Top 50 Questions About Leases & Agreements for Manitoba Tenants

Leases & Agreements Manitoba published June 26, 2025 Flag of Manitoba
Who oversees residential tenancy issues in Manitoba?
The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) handles tenancy disputes, forms, and information in Manitoba.
What law governs leases in Manitoba?
The Residential Tenancies Act (C.C.S.M. c. R119).
Do leases have to be in writing in Manitoba?
Yes, landlords must provide a written tenancy agreement for most rentals in Manitoba.
What should a standard rental agreement include?
Names, address, rent amount, payment terms, length, rules, and signatures.
Where can I get the official lease form?
Use the Residential Tenancy Agreement (Form RTB-1) from the RTB.
Is a month-to-month lease legal in Manitoba?
Yes. Month-to-month agreements are legal and common in Manitoba.
Can a landlord add new rules after I've signed?
Not without written mutual consent, except for new rules required by law.
Can a lease be renewed automatically?
Yes, fixed-term leases usually become month-to-month unless you agree otherwise.
Do both landlords and tenants have to sign the lease?
Yes. Both parties must sign for the agreement to be valid.
Can I request a copy of my lease?
Yes, you have the right to receive a copy of your lease from your landlord.
Am I allowed to sublet my rental unit?
Yes, but you need the landlord’s consent, which cannot be unreasonably withheld.
What form do I use to request subletting?
Use a written request; while there’s no specific government form, keep proof of your request.
How do I add someone to my lease?
Ask your landlord to amend the agreement in writing with the new tenant’s info.
What happens if I want to break my lease early?
You may need landlord consent or a valid reason; otherwise, you could owe rent until the unit is re-rented.
Is there any form to end a lease?
Yes. Use the Notice of Termination by Tenant (Form RTB-2).
How much notice do I need to give to end my lease?
Generally at least one rental period (e.g., one month) for month-to-month; fixed-term depends on your lease.
Can landlord or tenant end a lease early?
Yes, but only for specific reasons under the Act, or with mutual agreement.
What if I need to move for safety reasons?
Victims of domestic violence can apply for early lease termination using the Application for Early Termination – Domestic Violence.
Can a landlord increase the rent during my lease?
Not during a fixed-term. For month-to-month, landlords must give at least 3 months’ written notice and follow legal guidelines.
Is there a form for rent increases?
Yes, landlords use Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-4).
How often can rent be increased?
At most once every 12 months.
Do I have to accept a rent increase?
You may dispute an increase above the guideline by applying to the RTB within 60 days of notice.
What if there is no written lease?
The tenancy is still legal; the law applies even without a written lease.
Can I be charged extra for having pets?
Yes, but only if the lease allows pets and sets out any additional fees/deposits.
Can my landlord limit visitors?
Landlords can set reasonable rules but cannot ban your visitors or guests entirely.
Who is responsible for repairs?
Landlords are responsible for most repairs; tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and not cause damages.
Can a landlord enter my unit?
Only with 24 hours’ written notice, except emergencies or agreed-upon times.
Do I need tenant insurance?
Insurance is not required by law but may be required by your lease agreement.
Can a landlord ask for post-dated cheques?
Yes, but you cannot be refused a rental for declining to provide them.
What deposits can a landlord require?
Security deposit only, up to half a month’s rent.
When must the landlord return my deposit?
Within 14 days after the lease ends if there is no damage.
What can I do if my landlord violates the agreement?
File a complaint with the RTB or apply for dispute resolution using the RTB’s forms.
Which form do I use to start a claim against the landlord?
Use the Application for Order of Possession/Monetary Order (Form RTB-9).
Can I withhold rent for repairs?
No. You must apply to the RTB for a rent reduction or repair order instead.
What is a condition report, and do I need one?
It documents the unit’s state at move-in/out. Both parties should complete and sign it to avoid deposit disputes.
Is there a standard condition report form?
Yes. Use the Condition Report Form RTB-3 from RTB.
Can the landlord require automatic withdrawal for rent?
Only with your written consent. You cannot be forced to use this method.
What happens if I disagree with the lease terms before signing?
Discuss concerns before signing. Do not sign until you’re comfortable with the terms.
Can the landlord stop me from having roommates?
Only if the lease or house rules prohibit roommates, or if it causes overcrowding.
What if the lease says 'no children' or restricts families?
It is illegal to discriminate based on family status under Manitoba law.
Can lease terms overrule Manitoba law?
No. If lease terms conflict with the Residential Tenancies Act, the law prevails.
Can I get out of my lease if my landlord won’t do major repairs?
You can apply to the RTB to request repair orders or termination under specific conditions.
What if rent is late?
Landlord may issue a termination notice if rent is not paid on time, usually after three days.
What forms are used for lease disputes?
Use relevant RTB forms, like Application for Order of Possession/Monetary Order (Form RTB-9) for claims.
Can I break my lease if I lose my job?
Economic reasons alone are not valid unless agreed by the landlord. Discuss options together.
Does a lease need witness signatures?
No, witnesses are not required for leases in Manitoba.
Can a landlord ask for my credit score?
Yes, landlords can request consent to check your credit during application.
What if my lease expires and I stay?
The tenancy automatically becomes month-to-month (periodic).
How do I update my contact information in the lease?
Notify the landlord in writing of any changes.
Can a landlord limit my parking?
Only as described in your lease agreement or building rules.
Whose responsibility is it to pay utilities?
Check your lease. It should state whether the tenant or landlord pays each utility.
Can I change the locks?
Only with the landlord’s consent or in an emergency. Landlords may not prevent access.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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