What Manitoba Tenants Can Do If Windows or Doors Don’t Lock Properly

If you’re renting in Manitoba and discover that your windows or doors don’t lock or aren’t secure, it’s much more than just an inconvenience. Your safety, privacy, and right to quiet enjoyment are all protected by Manitoba’s laws. This guide explains what steps you can take if your locks aren’t working, what your landlord is required to do, and how to get solutions fast.

Why Secure Locks Matter for Tenants

Functional locks on entry and exit points are a fundamental part of a safe home. Under Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act, landlords are legally responsible for ensuring rental units meet health and safety standards—including having doors and windows that lock properly¹. If these don’t work or are missing altogether, your home’s security—and sometimes your renter’s insurance—could be at risk.

Your Rights: Lock and Security Standards in Manitoba Rentals

Manitoba law requires landlords to keep rental units in a safe and habitable condition. This includes:

• Doors that have working locks
• Windows that can be secured, especially on ground-floor units or anywhere entry could be a security concern
• Responding promptly to security-related repair requests

These standards apply whether you’re in an apartment, house, or basement suite. Read more about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for broader health and safety rights.

What to Do if Your Locks Don’t Work: Steps for Tenants

If you’ve found a lock that isn’t working, don’t wait. Here’s what to do:

• Document the problem: Take photos or videos of the non-functional lock and note when you discovered the issue.
• Contact your landlord in writing: Email, text, or deliver a letter describing the problem, and ask for the repair. Keep a copy of your message for your records.
• If it’s urgent (such as a broken front door lock), state this clearly and request a fast repair for safety reasons.

Landlords should handle security issues as urgent repairs. If they don’t respond promptly, you can escalate the situation to Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch—the official board handling rental disputes. For step-by-step guidance on routine and urgent repair issues, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Filing an Official Complaint: How the Process Works

If your landlord doesn’t fix the problem after you request it, you can seek help from the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba. This provincial office helps enforce rental laws and resolve tenant-landlord disputes.

• Use the Request for Service or Repairs form (Form 8): This form lets you request the landlord to complete specific repairs—including fixing locks. Download the form and instructions from the Manitoba RTB’s official forms page.
• If repairs still aren’t done, you may file a formal complaint (Application for an Order of Possession or Remedy, RTB Form 3). This starts a dispute resolution process.

If you need to relocate because repairs aren’t made, review your rights and obligations. For a complete overview, check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Request for Service or Repairs (Form 8): Use this if your landlord is not responding to your written repair requests. Clearly describe the faulty locks and request deadlines for repair. Download Form 8 here.
• Application for an Order of Possession or Remedy (Form 3): If your landlord refuses or ignores your request, you can apply for a hearing with the Residential Tenancies Branch using this form. Access Form 3 and its instructions from the government site.

Both forms require you to provide evidence (photos, messages, and details of communication with your landlord).

Your Landlord’s Responsibilities

Landlords are responsible for maintaining secure locks throughout your tenancy. They also cannot change locks or restrict your access without your written consent or a legal order.

If you ever feel your security is compromised, act immediately and remember you have legal recourse.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for better security and peace of mind during your next move.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to fix broken locks?
   No, you cannot legally withhold rent in Manitoba due to repair delays. Instead, use the formal complaint process with the RTB to enforce your rights.
2. How long does a landlord have to fix a broken lock?
   Landlords are expected to address urgent repairs—like security or safety issues—immediately or within a few days. Non-urgent repairs may take longer but should be done promptly.
3. What if I want to change the locks myself?
   Tenants must get written permission from the landlord before changing any locks. Otherwise, you risk violating your rental agreement.
4. Are landlords allowed to enter my unit if the locks are broken?
   No, a landlord can only enter with proper notice, except in emergencies. Broken locks do not give your landlord extra rights to enter without your consent or due notice.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Manitoba law protects your right to a secure home with locking windows and doors
• If your landlord doesn’t fix the issue, document everything and file a formal request or complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch
• Never risk your deposit or safety—know your steps and rights for a quick resolution

Secure locks are a legal and practical necessity. Acting early and understanding your rights puts you in the strongest position for a solution. To learn more about common issues and their solutions, visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Information, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Download official RTB forms here (Manitoba Government)
• Tenant support: Contact local legal aid offices or tenant advocacy centres in Manitoba for advice.
• Review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for further information.

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1. Manitoba Residential Tenancies Act, Sections 2 and 68 – Duties regarding residential premises and urgent repairs.
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba): Official government site
3. Official Forms: Request for Repairs (Form 8) and Application for Remedy (Form 3)

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