When Can a Landlord Keep Your Deposit in Manitoba?

Are you renting in Manitoba and wondering what happens to your deposit when you move out? Security deposits are a common part of renting, and understanding when your landlord can legally keep all or part of your deposit is important for every tenant in Manitoba.

What Is a Security (Damage) Deposit in Manitoba?

In Manitoba, a security deposit—often called a damage deposit—acts as financial protection for landlords. It's usually paid when you sign the tenancy agreement and is held in trust during your tenancy. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the official body regulating rentals and deposits in Manitoba. You can find more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba on our resource page.

The amount of the deposit cannot exceed half a month's rent. Landlords must pay interest on the deposit, calculated annually.

When Can a Landlord Legally Keep Your Deposit?

According to the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)¹, landlords can only keep part or all of your security deposit for specific reasons:

• Unpaid rent or utilities (if you are responsible for them)
• Repairing damages beyond normal wear and tear
• Unexpected cleaning costs to restore the unit to its original condition

Normal wear and tear includes things like faded paint or loose door handles from regular use. Costs for "major" damage (holes in the wall, broken appliances due to negligence, etc.) or significant cleaning (such as carpet stains or garbage left behind) may be deducted from your deposit.

Return of Deposit: Rules and Timelines

After your tenancy ends, the landlord has 14 days to return the deposit with interest or provide you with a statement showing what deductions were made and why. Any remaining balance (if not kept for damages) must be paid to you.

If you believe deductions are unfair, you have the right to dispute the decision through the Residential Tenancies Branch.

How to Protect Your Deposit as a Tenant

Here are some steps tenants should take to safeguard their deposit:

• Document the unit’s condition with photos and an inspection checklist when you move in and move out.
• Keep records of communication and receipts for any repairs or professional cleaning.
• Attend the move-out inspection if possible and ask for a written report.

For an in-depth look at initial inspections, see our Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants. For details on getting your deposit back at the end of your tenancy, check out How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Forms and Disputes: What Tenants Need to Know

If you feel your deposit has been withheld unfairly, you can apply to the RTB using the Security Deposit Claim Form (official resource).

• When to use: After you move out and if your deposit is not returned within 14 days, or you disagree with deductions.
• How to use: Fill out the form, gather documentation (inspection reports, receipts, correspondence), and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Branch.

The RTB will review your case and may order the landlord to return some or all of your deposit if your claim is successful.

Summary: Key Deposit Laws in Manitoba

Knowing the rules helps you avoid surprises when it’s time to move out. Manitoba law is designed to balance tenant protection with landlord rights, ensuring security deposits are only kept for legitimate reasons.

Tip: Always get things in writing. A move-in and move-out checklist prepared with your landlord makes it easier to prove the unit’s condition if there’s a dispute.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does my landlord have to pay me interest on my deposit?
   Yes, landlords must pay annual interest on security deposits, as set by Manitoba regulation.
2. How long does the landlord have to return the deposit?
   Landlords in Manitoba must return the deposit (or a written statement explaining deductions) within 14 days after the tenancy ends.
3. What should I do if I disagree with the deductions?
   You can file a claim with the Residential Tenancies Branch for an official review and possible order to return your money.
4. Can a landlord keep my deposit for routine repairs?
   No, landlords can only keep the deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or excessive cleaning.
5. Where can I get help if I have a deposit dispute?
   The Residential Tenancies Branch provides free information and dispute resolution services for Manitoba tenants.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Your deposit can only be kept for legal reasons (damages, unpaid rent, cleaning).
• Documenting your unit's condition protects your rights.
• You have formal recourse through the RTB if your deposit is withheld unfairly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Information, forms, and tenant support.
• RTB Security Deposit Forms and Guides
• Local RTB Office Contacts for in-person support in Manitoba.
• Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. RTB Security Deposit Rules and Interest Rates
3. How to Dispute a Security Deposit Deduction

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