Top 50 Questions About Utilities & Services for Tenants in Manitoba

Utilities & Services Manitoba published June 26, 2025 Flag of Manitoba
Who is responsible for paying utilities in a Manitoba rental?
Responsibility depends on the lease; check your rental agreement for who pays which utilities.
Can a landlord include utilities in the rent?
Yes, many leases include some or all utilities in the rent; this must be stated in the agreement.
What if my landlord suddenly asks me to pay for a utility?
Landlords cannot change who pays for utilities without your agreement or a lawful rent increase process.
Can my landlord shut off my utilities?
No, landlords are not allowed to shut off essential services like heat, water, or electricity.
What can I do if my landlord disconnects utilities illegally?
Contact Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch; you can file a complaint or apply for an order.
What utilities are considered 'essential' in Manitoba?
Heat, water, electricity, and vital fuels are essential services under the law.
Who fixes a broken furnace or water heater?
The landlord must repair or replace essential appliances to maintain services like heat and hot water.
What is the minimum temperature the landlord must maintain in winter?
Landlords must keep rental units at a minimum 21°C from September 15 to June 15.
What if my apartment is too cold in winter?
Inform your landlord in writing; if not resolved, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch.
If a utility bill is in my name, am I responsible for all payments?
Yes, if the account is solely in your name, you are responsible for paying that utility.
Can I get compensation if my landlord doesn't provide essential services?
Yes, you can apply for compensation through the Residential Tenancies Branch.
Who pays for water in Manitoba rentals?
It depends on your lease; water can be included in rent or billed separately.
Is the landlord responsible for garbage pickup?
Usually yes, unless your rental agreement states otherwise.
Can my landlord charge me extra for shared utilities?
Only if it's clearly stated in your lease or by mutual agreement.
Is internet considered an essential utility?
No, internet is not considered an essential service under Manitoba law.
How do I prove the landlord failed to supply utilities?
Keep written records, photos, and any communication; this is key evidence for complaints.
Can I withhold rent if the utilities aren't working?
Do not withhold rent; instead, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for help.
Can I end my lease if the landlord won't restore essential services?
You may have a right to end your tenancy; contact the Branch to discuss your options first.
What form do I use to apply for a utility service order?
Use the "Application for an Order" form; see here.
How long does a landlord have to fix a utility problem?
Repairs must be done promptly. For heat and water, usually within 24 hours.
If I pay for repairs, can I deduct the cost from my rent?
Only with written permission from the Branch or your landlord.
What should I do if my landlord won’t pay the hydro bill?
Contact Manitoba Hydro and the Residential Tenancies Branch to protect your rights.
Is my landlord allowed to enter my unit to check utilities?
Yes, with at least 24 hours written notice except in emergencies.
Can a landlord bill me for a shared utility meter?
Only if agreed in your lease. Otherwise, landlord pays for shared meters.
Are tenants responsible for snow removal or lawn care?
Only if your lease specifically makes you responsible for it.
Can I get a rent reduction if essential services aren’t provided?
Yes, you can apply for a rent abatement with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
Who pays for cable TV?
Tenants pay unless included in the lease agreement.
Can a tenant be charged for repairs to utilities they broke?
Yes, tenants are responsible for damage they cause, but not normal wear and tear.
How do I file a complaint about utilities?
File with the Residential Tenancies Branch using the appropriate Application for an Order form.
Can my landlord enter without notice for a utility emergency?
Yes, landlords can enter without notice in emergencies.
What if my hydro is disconnected and it's the landlord’s responsibility?
Contact Manitoba Hydro and the Residential Tenancies Branch immediately for assistance.
Is the landlord responsible for pest control?
Yes, unless your actions caused the infestation.
Can a landlord increase rent to cover higher utility costs?
Yes, but only within legal rent increase guidelines and required notice periods.
What if the lease doesn’t mention utilities?
Utilities are then presumed to be included in rent. Clarify with your landlord in writing.
Can I switch utility providers in a rental?
Only if the account is in your name and allowed by the lease or landlord.
Does the landlord have to provide air conditioning?
Only if it's included in your lease or the landlord has previously provided it.
If I move out, am I responsible for final utility bills?
Yes, if the account is in your name, you must clear any outstanding bills.
What happens if utilities are disconnected for non-payment by the landlord?
You can apply for an order or compensation through the Branch.
Can my landlord require me to pay utilities directly to them?
Only if this is written into your lease; otherwise, you pay utility providers directly.
Do landlords have to provide recycling bins?
Yes, where recycling pickup is provided by the municipality.
Can I get my own utility meter installed?
Only with landlord’s written permission and at your own expense.
Who arranges new utility hookups for a new tenancy?
The tenant, if responsible according to the lease, otherwise the landlord arranges.
What if I discover utility tampering?
Report to your landlord and the utility provider immediately.
Is the landlord responsible for smoke alarm batteries?
Landlords must supply and maintain alarms; tenants replace batteries unless otherwise agreed.
Can a landlord charge for turning utilities on or off?
No, unless agreed in the lease and it reflects the actual cost.
Who pays for repairs if the water pipe bursts?
The landlord, unless you caused the damage through negligence.
Can utilities be disconnected during an eviction?
No, not until you have legally vacated the unit.
Where can I get official info about utility responsibilities?
See the Residential Tenancies Branch and The Residential Tenancies Act.

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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 tenants everywhere.

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