If you have received an eviction order in Manitoba and are considering ignoring it, it's important to understand the legal process, possible consequences, and your rights as a tenant. Manitoba law sets out specific procedures for evictions, and failure to comply with an eviction order can have serious, immediate effects – including forced removal by a sheriff and financial impact. This guide explains what happens next, what steps you can take, and where to find support to navigate the eviction process safely and legally.
What Is an Eviction Order?
An eviction order is a legal directive from the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB), the authority that manages rental disputes and tenancy matters in Manitoba. This order is typically issued after a landlord applies for termination of a tenancy, often for reasons such as non-payment of rent, damage to the property, or other breaches of the Residential Tenancies Act1.
If You Ignore an Eviction Order: What Are the Consequences?
Once the RTB issues an eviction order, it will specify the date and time by which you must leave the rental unit. If you do not vacate by the deadline, several things can happen:
- Legal enforcement: Your landlord can request the RTB to issue a Notice of Possession.
- Sheriff involvement: With a Notice of Possession, a sheriff or enforcement officer may physically remove you from the property.
- Additional costs: You may be held responsible for related costs, such as sheriff fees or ongoing rent until the unit is re-rented.
- Credit impact and future rentals: An enforced eviction can appear on your credit history, making it harder to rent in the future.
Ignoring an eviction order does not stop the process. Manitoba's system is designed to ensure landlords regain possession of their property legally, and refusing to leave can escalate matters quickly.
What Forms Are Involved in Manitoba's Eviction Process?
Order of Possession (Form RTB-011)
This form is issued by the RTB when a landlord wins an eviction claim. It orders the tenant to vacate by a specified date.
- How it’s used: If a tenant doesn't leave, the landlord uses this to request law enforcement involvement. Example: If you stay past the vacate date, the landlord submits the form to the sheriff’s office for enforcement.
- Access official RTB forms here
Application for Reconsideration (Form RTB-013)
If you believe the eviction order was made in error or you have new evidence, you can apply for reconsideration before the vacate date.
- Practical Example: If you received an eviction because of a rent payment mix-up and can prove payment, you might use this form.
- See the RTB-013 (Application for Reconsideration) form
Steps to Take If You’ve Received (or Ignored) an Eviction Order
It's critical to act quickly and understand your rights before enforcement. Here’s what you should do:
- Read the order thoroughly. Note the vacate date and any instructions.
- Contact the RTB or a tenant support agency immediately if you need clarification or legal advice.
- File for reconsideration if you have valid grounds and are within the timeline.
- Prepare to move out before the specified date to avoid forcible removal and extra costs.
Not sure about your obligations or next steps? Review the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to better understand what Manitoba law requires from both sides.
What If You Leave After the Deadline?
If you move out after the eviction order deadline, you may still face liabilities such as:
- Owed rent for extra days stayed
- Costs for changing locks or sheriff services
- Possible negative notations with rental databases
Exiting promptly helps minimize financial and legal risk. For helpful strategies during a quick move, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.
If you’re struggling to find a new home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare thousands of listings.
Know Your Rights: Manitoba Tenant Protections
Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act gives tenants certain protections, including notice requirements and fair hearing rights. For a full list of rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
FAQ: Eviction Orders in Manitoba
- What happens if I don’t leave after getting an eviction order?
If you stay beyond the eviction date, your landlord can get a Notice of Possession. A sheriff can then legally remove you from the property, and you may be responsible for related costs. - Can I appeal an eviction order in Manitoba?
Yes. If you have new evidence or believe there was a mistake, you may file an Application for Reconsideration (Form RTB-013) with the RTB before the vacate date. - Will ignoring an eviction order affect my ability to rent later?
Yes. An enforced eviction may impact your rental history and make some landlords less likely to approve future applications. - Who enforces eviction orders in Manitoba?
The Residential Tenancies Branch issues the order, but a sheriff or law enforcement officer enforces it if the tenant does not leave.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Ignoring an eviction order in Manitoba leads to possible sheriff removal and higher costs.
- Apply for reconsideration (if eligible) and seek help promptly to avoid enforcement.
- Actively communicate with the RTB and use official forms for appeals or questions.
Prompt action and understanding your rights are essential in protecting yourself during an eviction process.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba) – Official info, contact, and forms
- Manitoba Family Services Advocacy Unit – Tenant advocacy and support
- Community Legal Education Association (Manitoba)
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
- Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba), available at Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act
- Residential Tenancies Branch Forms, available at RTB Forms Manitoba
