Top 50 Questions: Mental Health & Tenancy in Manitoba

Mental Health & Tenancy Manitoba published June 26, 2025 Flag of Manitoba
Which board handles tenancy issues in Manitoba?
The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) manages these matters in Manitoba.
What law governs rental housing in Manitoba?
The Residential Tenancies Act, C.C.S.M. c. R119 (read online) applies.
Can a tenant be evicted due to mental health issues?
No. You can't be evicted solely because of mental health. Eviction must follow the Act.
Does mental health count as a disability in Manitoba?
Yes. Mental health conditions are protected disabilities under the Manitoba Human Rights Code.
What rights do tenants with mental health issues have?
Tenants have the same rights as other tenants and are protected from discrimination and harassment.
Can my landlord ask about my mental health?
Generally, no. Landlords can only ask if it's related to an accommodation request.
What is a reasonable accommodation?
Help or adjustments given so you can enjoy your tenancy equally due to a disability.
How do I request an accommodation for my mental health?
Make a written request to your landlord explaining your need (no medical details required).
Does my landlord have to grant all accommodation requests?
Not always. The landlord must provide reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.
Can my landlord evict me for behaviour linked to mental health?
If the behaviour seriously harms safety, property, or other tenants, eviction is possible (but not just for the mental health issue alone).
What if I need a support person or service animal?
You have the right to reasonable accommodation, including service animals and support persons if needed.
Does my landlord have to let me keep my service animal?
Yes. Service animals are not pets and are allowed as a reasonable accommodation.
Can my landlord charge a pet deposit for a service animal?
No. There can be no additional deposit or fee solely for a service animal.
Can my landlord refuse an emotional support animal?
Emotional support animals can be allowed as an accommodation if their need is medically confirmed.
What proof does my landlord need for an accommodation?
They may ask for confirmation of disability and that the accommodation is necessary, not diagnosis details.
Is harassment based on my mental health a breach of my rights?
Yes. Discrimination or harassment due to mental health is prohibited.
What can I do if my landlord won’t accommodate my mental health?
You may file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or the RTB.
Can I break my lease if I’m hospitalized for mental health reasons?
You may ask for early termination as an accommodation. Approval depends on your circumstances.
What if my mental health prevents me from paying rent on time?
Inform your landlord and request an accommodation. Late rent remains a lease violation but flexibility is sometimes possible.
Can I have someone talk to my landlord on my behalf?
Yes. You can provide written permission for someone to support or represent you.
What form do I use to apply for dispute resolution?
Use RTB Application for Order of Possession or Application for Order of Remedies (official forms).
How do I respond if my landlord applies to evict me?
File a written response with the RTB. Attend any scheduled hearing to explain your side.
What if I can't attend an RTB hearing due to mental health?
Contact RTB as soon as possible to request an adjournment or ask for alternative arrangements.
Is my information about my disability confidential?
Yes. Landlords must keep any disclosed information private.
Can my landlord make changes to my unit for accessibility?
Reasonable modifications may be a required accommodation under human rights law.
Who pays for reasonable modifications?
Tenants may have to pay for non-structural changes, but landlords may cover some costs if it’s reasonable.
Can a landlord tell other tenants about my mental health?
No. This is private and must not be disclosed without your consent.
Am I protected from eviction during a mental health crisis?
Not specifically, but you have the right to reasonable accommodation and a fair hearing.
How do I file a complaint about discrimination?
File with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission (complaint process).
Do I need a doctor’s note for accommodation?
Sometimes, a simple letter from a professional confirming need is enough.
What happens if I miss a rent payment due to hospitalization?
Inform your landlord. They may offer flexibility, but you could still receive a notice for late payment.
Will my eviction record mention my mental health?
No. Eviction records do not list health or personal details.
What if my landlord enters my unit without permission when I’m unwell?
This may violate your rights. Contact the RTB if it happens without proper notice.
Can my landlord refuse to rent to me due to mental health?
No, this is discrimination and is not allowed under human rights law.
What if other tenants harass me because of my mental health?
Report it to your landlord and, if needed, to the Human Rights Commission.
Do I have to disclose my mental health to my landlord?
No, unless you request an accommodation that requires limited disclosure.
Are crisis or support workers allowed to visit?
Yes. You may have guests, including support workers, in your unit.
Can I request written communication due to anxiety?
Yes. Requesting communication accommodations is your right.
Does rent assistance impact my tenancy?
No, but ensure rent is paid as agreed to avoid issues.
How can I appeal a decision by the RTB?
Use the RTB’s Appeal process (learn more here).
Can I stay in my unit if I’m being investigated under the Mental Health Act?
Yes, unless there’s a valid eviction order unrelated to the Act.
Does having a mental health professional as a reference help?
It may help show you are supported, but is not required.
Can I get priority for accessible units?
Some social housing offers priority for disabilities, including mental health.
Can I use RTB Form 15: Application for an Order?
Yes, to resolve tenancy disputes. Find the form here.
Can rent increases target people with disabilities?
No. Rent increases must comply with the Act and apply to all tenants.
Who can help if I’m struggling with tenancy and mental health?
Contact local tenant support programs or Manitoba Mental Health Crisis Services.
Can I ask my landlord not to contact me by phone?
Yes, you can request alternative communication methods.
Is support with daily tasks a tenancy right?
Not directly, but you may have support people visit if needed.
Can I put locks or alarms on doors for anxiety?
Ask your landlord for approval; such changes may be a reasonable accommodation.

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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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