Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant or Landlord in Manitoba
- Yellow Pages Admin
- Oct 10
- 3 min read
Renting or managing a property in Manitoba? Whether you’re a tenant trying to make sense of your rights or a landlord juggling responsibilities, the rental game comes with its fair share of legal twists.
At Cassidy Ramsay Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries, we’ve been in this game for over 45 years, and trust us, we’ve seen it all. From late rent dramas to midnight maintenance meltdowns, we know how the rental world works.
Based in the heart of Winnipeg’s legal scene, we help break down Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act into something that makes sense. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, here’s what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law and your lease before the next rent day sneaks up.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Manitoba
Manitoba tenants enjoy a well-defined set of rights that ensure a safe, habitable, and fair rental experience. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants have the right to:
Quiet enjoyment of their rental unit, meaning landlords cannot enter the property without proper notice except in emergencies.
A safe and habitable living environment, obliging landlords to maintain essential services such as heating, plumbing, and structural repairs promptly.
Protection from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, with rent increase guidelines regulated annually (1.7% for 2025).
Access to a written tenancy agreement outlining the terms of the lease, although verbal agreements are also legally binding.
Privacy and non-discrimination, including protection under the Manitoba Human Rights Code against bias due to race, gender, family status, or disability.
In return, tenants must:
Make sure your rent is paid in full and on time, just as outlined in your lease agreement.
Keep their residence clean and reasonably maintained.
Respect the property by preventing damage and avoiding disruptive behavior.
Report necessary repairs in a timely manner and allow landlords access for legitimate inspections or maintenance with proper notice.
Landlord Rights and Duties in Manitoba
Landlords have the right to receive timely rent payments and expect tenants to uphold the lease agreements. They may:
Increase rent according to provincial guidelines and following proper notice procedures.
Enter the rental property with required notice for inspections, repairs, or tenant complaints, respecting the tenant’s right to privacy.
Request a security deposit at the beginning of tenancy, which must be handled according to regulations.
Seek eviction through legal channels if a tenant breaches the lease terms, including non-payment or damage to property.
Landlords are required to:
Maintain rental units in a safe, sanitary, and good repair condition as per provincial standards.
Provide tenants with clear, written tenancy agreements upon request.
Comply with anti-discrimination laws during tenant selection and throughout tenancy.
Use the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) to mediate disputes fairly and within the law.
Common Disputes & Resolution Strategies
Disputes between tenants and landlords can arise over issues such as rent arrears, property damage, maintenance delays, privacy violations, and lease termination. The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) offers mediation and adjudication services to resolve these conflicts without proceeding directly to court. Often, open communication and understanding the legal framework can prevent or quickly resolve disagreements.
For example, if a tenant feels a rent increase is excessive or improperly notified, they can appeal through the RTB. Similarly, landlords can seek orders for eviction only through proper legal procedures. Documenting all communications and inspections, using condition reports at move-in and move-out, and knowing your rights reduce the risk of costly misunderstandings.
How Cassidy Ramsay Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Can Help?
Cassidy Ramsay’s team combines deep legal expertise with personalized service to assist tenants and landlords across Manitoba. Whether you are facing eviction notices, lease disputes, property maintenance issues, or questions about your rights, their experienced lawyers provide practical guidance rooted in over four decades of legal practice. Operating from our office in Winnipeg’s Exchange District, Cassidy Ramsay offers more than just tenancy law. Our legal services cover family law, real estate deals, wills and estates, corporate law, and criminal defence, so whatever life throws your way, we’re here with well-rounded legal support that grows with your needs.
Don’t wait until a tenancy issue becomes a conflict. Contact Cassidy Ramsay Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries today for expert advice tailored to your situation and secure your rights with confidence.
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