Withholding Rent for Repairs in Manitoba: What Tenants Should Know

If you're a tenant in Manitoba and facing ongoing repair issues, you might wonder: Can I withhold rent until my landlord makes things right? It's a common question, and understanding the rules can help you protect your rights while avoiding costly mistakes. Manitoba law has clear rules about what tenants can—and cannot—do when repairs are delayed.

Manitoba Tenant Repair Rights: The Basics

In Manitoba, tenants cannot legally withhold rent simply because repairs have not been made. This rule applies even if the problems are significant or disrupt your daily life. Withholding rent can put you at risk of eviction or other consequences.¹

Instead, the legislation provides safe, legal steps you can take. Both tenants and landlords have specific rights and responsibilities when it comes to maintenance and repairs.

The Law: Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)

Repairs and maintenance issues for rental properties in Manitoba are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act. The law requires landlords to keep rental units in a good state of repair and comply with health and safety standards at all times.²

What If Repairs Aren't Made?

If your landlord ignores repair requests, you should:

• Document the repair issue (take dated photos and keep notes)
• Notify your landlord in writing about the required repairs
• Keep copies of all communication

If there is a health or safety issue—such as a broken heater in winter or mold—these are considered urgent. Learn more about hazards and your protections in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Legal Options for Tenants: How to Get Repairs Done

While you can’t stop paying rent because of repair delays, Manitoba’s tenancy system allows tenants to request repairs or other remedies via a government tribunal.

Applying to the Residential Tenancies Branch

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) is the government body that resolves rental housing disputes in Manitoba. If your landlord does not address the repairs, you can apply to the RTB to order the work done or reduce your rent.

• Form Used: Tenant’s Request for Repair (RTB Form)
• When to Use: After notifying your landlord in writing and allowing reasonable time for repairs, use this form to request a formal order for repairs or compensation.
• How to Use: Download the request form from the Government of Manitoba site. Fill it out with details, evidence, and your communication record. Submit to the RTB in person, by mail, or online. You can request an inspection or compensation if repairs were delayed.

This process keeps you protected under Manitoba law and helps resolve repair issues safely.

Emergency and Routine Repairs

If facing urgent situations—such as loss of heat or flooding—the law may allow faster action. See Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for practical tips regarding immediate hazards, what’s considered an emergency, and who to call.

Health and Safety Standards

Landlords in Manitoba must make sure rentals meet all local health codes and are free from hazards. Issues like pests, mold, electrical failures, or a broken furnace can quickly become serious. For more about your rights when renting, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Learn how to find a safe, well-maintained rental and Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Step-by-Step Guide: What To Do If Repairs Are Not Made

Here is a quick summary of actions tenants can take:

• Notify your landlord of the repair issue in writing
• Allow reasonable time for your landlord to respond and fix the problem
• Gather and keep evidence (photos, emails, letters)
• If no action, download and complete the Tenant’s Request for Repair form
• Apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for an order

FAQ: Manitoba Rent Withholding and Repairs

1. Can I ever withhold rent for repairs in Manitoba?
   No, you cannot legally withhold rent for repairs in Manitoba. Always pay your rent while you seek help through official channels.
2. What official form do I use to request repairs?
   Use the Tenant’s Request for Repair form from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
3. What happens if I stop paying rent because repairs aren’t made?
   Withholding rent may lead to eviction proceedings against you. Use the dispute resolution process instead.
4. How quickly must landlords respond to emergency repairs?
   They must act promptly if the issue threatens health or safety. Seek advice if they delay.
5. Where can I get more information about my rights?
   Check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a Manitoba-specific overview.

Key Takeaways

• It is not legal to withhold rent in Manitoba because of delayed repairs—doing so can put your tenancy at risk.
• Document repair issues and use the formal complaint process through the Residential Tenancies Branch.
• Prompt action and good records help protect your rights.

Always seek peaceful communication with your landlord first, but know that official help is available if things don't improve.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba): Rental disputes and repairs information, forms, and tenant resources
• Tenant’s Request for Repair Form: Download from the official RTB website
• Manitoba Human Rights Commission: Help for discrimination or accessibility issues in housing
• Legal Aid Manitoba: Low-cost legal advice for tenants
• More Manitoba tenant rights and resources: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba

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1. Source: Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch – Repairs
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba) – Repairs Section

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