What Tenants Should Do When Served an Eviction Notice in Manitoba

If you’re a tenant in Manitoba and have just received an eviction notice, it’s normal to feel anxious or uncertain. The law offers protections and clear steps for tenants facing eviction. This guide, based on Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1], explains your rights, options, and how to respond if you wish to challenge an eviction or need help relocating. Knowing the process will help you act quickly and make informed decisions.

Understanding Eviction Notices in Manitoba

Eviction notices, called "Notice of Termination" in Manitoba, are legal documents landlords use to end a tenancy for reasons such as non-payment of rent, property damage, or landlords' own use of the property. All notices must follow provincial regulations and have minimum notice periods, which depend on the reason for eviction.

• Non-payment of rent: Usually 3 days’ notice
• Other breaches (e.g., property damage): At least 5 days’ notice
• Owner’s possession (landlord/close family moves in): At least 3 months’ notice

Always read your eviction notice closely to confirm the stated reason and notice period are correct. You can learn more about your ongoing rights and obligations after you sign a lease in our guide What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Key Steps If You Receive an Eviction Notice

Act promptly if you are served any notice to vacate. Here’s what you should do:

• Review the notice for accuracy (reason, notice period, and date served).
• Gather documents such as your rental agreement, rent payment receipts, and any previous communication with your landlord.
• Understand your rights and obligations during this period. You remain responsible for the unit and must continue paying rent until the end of the tenancy.

If you believe the eviction is unfair or based on incorrect information, you may challenge it by applying to the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba^[2].

Forms You May Need to Challenge Eviction

• Application for Order of Possession (Form RTB-1): Used by landlords to continue with eviction if the tenant refuses to leave.
• Tenant’s Request for Review (Form RTB-14): Tenants may use this form to dispute a notice of termination, stating why they believe the eviction is invalid.
  Example: If you’re accused of not paying rent but have proof of payment, submit this form with your evidence.
  Official link: Manitoba RTB Forms Portal.
• Notice of Termination: This is used by either the tenant or landlord to officially end a tenancy. Ensure you use the correct version for your circumstance.
  Official link: RTB Notices and Forms.

How to File an Application or Apply for a Review

To officially contest an eviction, you will need to submit the Tenant’s Request for Review (RTB-14) to the Residential Tenancies Branch. You can file in person, by mail, or online via the official RTB website. Make sure to include supporting documents. After filing, a hearing may be scheduled where both you and your landlord can present your case.

Your Rights During the Eviction Process

Even after receiving a notice, you have rights as a Manitoban tenant:

• Remain in your home until the notice period expires or an order of possession is granted.
• Attend any scheduled RTB hearings to share your side of the story.
• Request written reasons and decisions from the tribunal.
• Receive your security deposit back with interest if you move out, provided you meet all move-out obligations.

Eviction proceedings must comply with Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act. For a deeper overview, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

What Happens If You Move Out Voluntarily?

If you decide not to challenge the notice and leave before the deadline, make sure you:

• Notify your landlord in writing of your move-out date
• Complete a move-out inspection and settle account balances
• Return all keys and provide your forwarding address for your deposit

For more support with moving out, check our guide How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Tips and Alternatives: Negotiation and Avoiding Eviction

Sometimes eviction can be prevented by reaching an agreement with your landlord. Options may include:

• Arranging a payment plan for late rent
• Agreeing to rectify lease violations (e.g., damage or noise complaints)
• Negotiating a mutually acceptable move-out date

Clear communication is often the best path to a solution that works for both parties.

Looking for a new place if eviction proceeds? Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily and find your next home sooner.

FAQ: Manitoba Tenant Evictions

1. Can my landlord evict me without cause in Manitoba?
   Not usually. Most evictions require a valid reason, such as non-payment of rent or owner possession. Fixed-term tenancies usually last until the end date without early termination unless there's a serious lease violation.
2. How much notice must my landlord give me?
   It depends on the reason. Non-payment requires as little as 3 days, but most other causes need at least 5 days. For owner possession, at least 3 months’ notice is required.
3. What if I disagree with the eviction notice?
   You can contest the notice by submitting a Tenant’s Request for Review (RTB-14) to the Residential Tenancies Branch before the notice period expires.
4. Do I have to keep paying rent after receiving an eviction notice?
   Yes. You must continue to pay rent until the tenancy formally ends, even if you are challenging the eviction.
5. Who decides disputes between tenants and landlords in Manitoba?
   This is handled by the Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba, a government tribunal with the authority to hold hearings and make binding decisions.

Conclusion

In summary, receiving an eviction notice in Manitoba can be stressful, but:

• You're protected by the Residential Tenancies Act
• You have the right to contest most eviction notices through the Residential Tenancies Branch
• Acting quickly and keeping records will help protect your rights and deposit

Be proactive and seek help early if you’re unsure about your situation.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba – Information, applications, and official forms
• Manitoba Family Services – Tenant Resources
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
• Local tenant advocacy organizations or legal aid for advice and support

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch of Manitoba

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