What to Do If Your Rental Order Isn’t Enforced in Manitoba

If the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) issues an order in your favour—for example, about repairs, rent repayment, or deposit return—but your landlord does not comply, it can be frustrating and stressful. This page explains the process for Manitoba tenants when orders are not enforced, covers your next legal options, and highlights important resources and forms you may need.

Understanding the Role of Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch

In Manitoba, the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the provincial body that handles rental disputes under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)^[1]. The RTB can issue legally binding orders after deciding a dispute between a tenant and landlord.

What to Do When an RTB Order Isn’t Followed

While orders from the RTB are binding, the Branch itself does not physically enforce them. Instead, tenants often have to use the court system if a landlord or other party is refusing to comply.

• Payment Orders: If your landlord is ordered to pay you money (rent return, deposit, etc.) and doesn’t, you must take the order to Small Claims Court.
• Eviction or Possession Orders: If you receive an order allowing you to remain in a property or requiring a landlord to let you back in, you must apply to Manitoba Court of King's Bench to enforce it.

Key Steps for Tenants if an RTB Order Isn’t Enforced

1. Ensure your RTB order is “Order of Possession” or “Order to Pay”: The document must state the terms the landlord is to follow.
2. Wait for appeal deadlines (if any): Before acting, confirm that the time for appeals (generally 5 to 14 days) is finished—otherwise, the landlord might be able to challenge the order.
3. File for Court Enforcement: Take your RTB order to the correct court and request that it be registered or enforced.

If your order involves moving out or deposit return, see our guide: How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out for tips on recovering money owed.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Request to Enforce RTB Order at Small Claims Court
  • When to use: If your landlord owes you money and hasn’t paid after an RTB order, file this form with Manitoba Small Claims Court.
  • View official Small Claims process and forms
• Application to Register RTB Order at the Court of King’s Bench
  • When to use: If you need a physical eviction or to regain possession ordered by the RTB, this lets the court enforce the outcome.
  • Access Court of King’s Bench civil procedures

The RTB also provides free forms and guides for resolving rental issues directly with your landlord.

Your Rights under Manitoba Law

Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba explains your core protections, including maintenance standards, notices, and the right to seek RTB help. Knowing your rights can help you decide whether further action is needed.

Prevention and Tips for Future Disputes

• Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for practical advice if you run into similar problems later.
• Keep all documents, correspondence, and payment records in case you need to prove non-compliance or make a future application.

It’s always best to keep records of communications and orders. This will strongly support your case if you need to go to court.

Looking for a New Rental?

If enforcement has left you searching for another home, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings makes it easy to view reliable, pet-friendly, and affordable rentals across Manitoba and Canada.

FAQ: Manitoba Tenants and Unenforced RTB Orders

1. What can I do if my landlord ignores an RTB order?
   If your landlord doesn't follow an RTB order, take it to Small Claims Court (for money) or the Court of King's Bench (for possession). These courts have the power to enforce the order.
2. Is there a fee for court enforcement?
   Yes, there may be a filing fee to register or enforce the order with the court. In some cases, you can request that this fee be added to what the landlord owes, but check with the court registry for details.
3. How long do I have to wait after getting my RTB order?
   Confirm that the landlord’s appeal period has expired—usually between 5 and 14 days depending on the order—before registering with the court.
4. Who can help me understand this process?
   Contact the RTB for a step-by-step overview, or reach out to a tenant advocacy service in Manitoba for support.
5. Does my landlord get notified if I register the order at court?
   Yes, once you file for enforcement, the landlord will be notified and given a chance to respond as part of the court process.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Manitoba RTB Official Website
• Manitoba Courts: Civil and Small Claims information
• Legal Help Centre (Winnipeg): Free walk-in community legal clinic
• Public Interest Law Centre: Specialized legal help for Manitoba tenants
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for an overview of the law

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1. [1] For Manitoba: Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Official Manitoba Government Portal
3. [3] Manitoba Courts: Official Court Website

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