Utilities and Services in Manitoba Rentals: Tenant FAQs

Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding utilities and services is essential for tenants in Manitoba. Whether you’re renting your first apartment or dealing with a sudden interruption in service, knowing what the law requires and where to turn can help you avoid disputes with your landlord. This guide covers common questions, key legislation, service standards, and official resources tailored to Manitoba tenants.

Who Is Responsible for Paying Utilities in Manitoba Rentals?

The responsibility for paying for utilities (such as hydro, gas, water) in Manitoba depends on your rental agreement. Usually, your lease specifies which utilities you must pay. If the rental agreement is unclear, ask your landlord for clarification in writing. In most cases:

• If utilities are included: The landlord is responsible for paying for those services.
• If utilities are not included: The tenant must arrange for and pay them directly to the provider.

When moving in, consider reviewing Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for a smooth transition with utility accounts.

Common Utility Issues and Manitoba Law

The Residential Tenancies Act of Manitoba^[1] protects your right to basic services. Landlords must keep vital services (like heat, water, and electricity) connected unless you agreed to pay and are responsible for the disconnection. If your landlord controls the utility account, they cannot cut off these services even if you are behind on rent.

If a utility is disconnected or not supplied as agreed, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba for help. This may result in an official order for the landlord to restore services.

Utility-Related Forms in Manitoba

If you experience an interruption in utilities or services, you may need to file an official complaint with the RTB. Here are some key forms and how tenants can use them:

• Application for an Order of Possession, Tenant (Form 1) – If your landlord has shut off your utilities in violation of the law, you can use this form to ask the RTB to order the landlord to restore services or allow you to move out without penalty.
  View Form 1 – Application for an Order of Possession
• Request for Service or Repair (Form 3) – Use this form to formally notify your landlord about a utility service issue. If the problem is not resolved after using this form, you can escalate the issue with the RTB.
  Request for Service or Repair (Form 3)
• Application for Remedy (Form 16) – Tenants can use this form to request compensation for loss of services or to have them restored.
  Application for Remedy (Form 16)

Heat, Water, and Essential Service Standards

In Manitoba, the law requires that residential rental units have a minimum standard of service:

• Heat: Between September 30 and June 15, landlords must maintain a minimum temperature of 21°C (70°F)
• Water: Cold and hot running water must be provided as specified in your lease
• Electricity and Gas: Must remain connected unless the tenant is explicitly responsible for payment and fails to pay

If you’re unsure whether your landlord or you are responsible for routine maintenance or repairs involving utilities, review the Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities page for more details.

Ending or Changing Utility Services When Moving Out

When ending a tenancy, be sure to settle all outstanding utility bills or transfer accounts if they are in your name. Your final move-out steps may include:

• Contacting utility providers early to arrange termination or transfer
• Documenting meter readings with time-stamped photos
• Reviewing the process for How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant

Key Manitoba Tribunals and Legislation

Residential rental disputes, including those about utilities or services, are handled by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba. The RTB enforces the Residential Tenancies Act^[1].

For a broader perspective on your rights and responsibilities, see the latest information at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you're searching for new apartments or homes in Manitoba or elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions: Utilities and Services in Manitoba Rentals

1. Can a landlord shut off utilities if I am late on rent?
   No. Under Manitoba law, landlords cannot disconnect essential services such as water, heat, or electricity even if you miss a rent payment. Contact the RTB if you experience an illegal shutoff.
2. Who is responsible for setting up utility accounts?
   If the lease says utilities are not included, tenants are usually responsible for setting up accounts with utility providers. Always clarify with your landlord before moving in.
3. What can I do if my landlord won’t fix a utility-related problem?
   Notify your landlord in writing (using the RTB’s Request for Service or Repair – Form 3). If the issue continues, file an application with the RTB for a remedy.
4. Am I responsible for paying utilities if they are not mentioned in the lease?
   If your lease is silent, discuss with your landlord and get the decision in writing. If there’s a dispute, contact the RTB for clarification.
5. Are there rules about minimum heat in my apartment?
   Yes. Between September 30 and June 15, landlords must provide heat to make sure the temperature in your rental does not fall below 21°C (70°F).

How To: Resolve Utility or Service Issues as a Manitoba Tenant

1. How do I report a utility outage to my landlord and get it fixed?
   Notify your landlord right away in writing (use Form 3). If unresolved, you may escalate to the RTB using Form 16.
2. How can I formally document utility concerns for evidence?
   Take photos, keep copies of your requests and responses, and document meter readings. File copies with any complaint forms.
3. How do I apply to the RTB for restoration of lost utility services?
   Complete the Application for Remedy (Form 16) and submit it with supporting evidence directly to the RTB.

Key Takeaways for Manitoba Tenants

• Double-check who is responsible for utilities in your lease and get all details in writing.
• Essential services like heat, water, and electricity cannot be shut off by your landlord as leverage or punishment.
• The Residential Tenancies Branch and Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act are your main sources of support and law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) of Manitoba – Main resource for disputes, complaints, and forms.
• Download official forms and guides on the Manitoba RTB Forms and Fact Sheets page.
• Additional information about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
• For health and safety–related utility concerns, see the City of Winnipeg’s Housing By-Laws and Policy for standards and reporting processes.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)

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