Filing a Complaint With the RTB

The Residential Tenancies Branch handles disputes between landlords and tenants across Manitoba, including unpaid or disputed security deposits, disputes over a termination notice, unresolved repair issues, and disagreements over entry, rent increases, or lease terms. It's the first and primary place to go for a formal resolution -- not small claims court.

Applications are made using the RTB's official forms, available on the Residential Tenancies Branch website or in person at a branch office. Some applications -- notably, a tenant's application to recover a disputed security deposit -- have no filing fee. Other application types may involve a modest fee, and fee waivers are available in cases of financial hardship. Check the RTB's current fee schedule directly, since fees can be updated by the province.

The RTB typically starts with mediation, working with both sides to try to reach an agreement without a formal ruling. If mediation doesn't resolve the issue, the matter proceeds to a hearing before an RTB officer, who reviews the evidence and issues a binding decision.

A decision can be appealed to the Residential Tenancies Commission. You can also contact the RTB directly by phone (204-945-2476 in Winnipeg, or 1-800-782-8403 toll-free elsewhere in Manitoba) for guidance on which form applies to your situation before you file.