Subletting & Assignment in Manitoba

A Manitoba tenant can sublet or assign their tenancy agreement, but only with the landlord's prior written consent. Importantly, a landlord cannot unreasonably withhold that consent -- they can't refuse without a legitimate reason, though they can screen the proposed new tenant (for example, requesting references or running a credit check).

Subletting is for a temporary absence -- you intend to come back before the tenancy ends. You remain legally responsible for the rent and for any damage during the sublet period, even though someone else is living there. You also cannot charge the subletting tenant more rent than you yourself pay.

Assignment is for a permanent move -- you don't plan to return. The new tenant (the "assignee") takes over your tenancy agreement directly, including your rent and terms, and typically must apply with the landlord and may need to provide a security deposit and references. Once accepted, your original tenancy ends and you're no longer responsible for the unit.

A landlord may charge a modest administrative fee to process a subletting or assignment request. If your landlord refuses consent without a legitimate reason, or ignores your request altogether, you can bring the matter to the Residential Tenancies Branch, which can order the landlord to allow the sublet or assignment -- or in some cases, allow you to end the tenancy early instead.