If you receive an eviction notice in Manitoba that you believe is unfair or in bad faith, you have the right to dispute it. You must file your objection with the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) before the deadline on your notice. Disputing the notice pauses the eviction until a formal hearing takes place.
Being told to leave your home is incredibly stressful, especially when you feel the landlord’s reasons are completely unjustified. Whether you rent an apartment in downtown Winnipeg, a townhouse in Brandon, or a basement suite in Steinbach, you have strong legal protections under Manitoba law. A landlord cannot simply force you out onto the street because they dislike you or want to raise the rent for a new tenant.
An unjust eviction, often called a “bad faith” eviction, happens when a landlord uses a legal excuse—like claiming their family member is moving in—when their true intention is to sell the property or drastically increase the rent. 📜 If you suspect your landlord is not being truthful, it is crucial to act quickly. In this guide, we will walk you through the proper steps to fight an unfair eviction notice and protect your housing rights through the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB).
Step-by-Step Process in Manitoba
In Manitoba, all residential disputes are handled by the RTB, not the traditional court system. This makes the process much more accessible for everyday people. If you receive a Notice of Termination from your landlord, here are the steps you should generally take to challenge it.
Step 1: Read the Notice Carefully
Do not ignore the eviction notice, hoping it will just go away. 🔍 Look at the official form your landlord used. In Manitoba, landlords must use specific RTB forms (such as Form 8 or Form 10) depending on the reason for eviction. Pay close attention to the termination date and the deadline you have to file a dispute. If the notice is not on an official RTB form, it may be legally invalid from the start.
Step 2: File a Dispute with the RTB
If you disagree with the notice, you must inform the landlord and the RTB. For most notices, you have a specific number of days to write a letter or fill out a dispute form at your local RTB office (located in Winnipeg, Brandon, or Thompson). Once your dispute is officially filed, you do not have to move out on the termination date. You can legally stay in your unit while you wait for your hearing.
Step 3: Gather Your Evidence
To win your hearing, you need proof that the eviction is unjust or in bad faith. 📷 Collect all relevant evidence, such as text messages, emails, rent receipts, and photographs. For example, if the landlord claims they are evicting you for noisy behaviour, ask your neighbours to write statements confirming that you are quiet. If the landlord threatened to evict you right after you asked for repairs, print out those communication logs.
Step 4: Attend the RTB Hearing
You will be scheduled for a hearing, which often takes place over the phone or by video call. An RTB Hearing Officer will listen to both sides. You will have the chance to present your evidence and question the landlord’s claims. Speak calmly, stick to the facts, and let your evidence prove your case. If the officer decides the eviction is unfair, the notice will be cancelled, and your tenancy will continue.
How Much Does it Cost in Manitoba?
Defending yourself against an unjust eviction is designed to be affordable. 💲 As of April 2026, the costs associated with disputing a notice at the RTB are minimal, though legal representation will add to your expenses.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| RTB Dispute Fee | $0 (Free) | There is generally no government fee for a tenant to dispute a Notice of Termination. |
| Tenant Advocate | Free – $50 | Non-profit advocacy groups in Manitoba can often help you prepare for free. |
| Lawyer or Paralegal | $150 – $350 per hour | Hiring a professional to represent you at the RTB hearing. |
| Printing and Mailing | $10 – $25 | Costs for printing evidence, photographs, and sending registered mail. |
How Long Does the Process Take?
If you file a dispute, the timeline of your eviction is immediately extended. Once you submit your paperwork, it usually takes the RTB about 2 to 4 weeks to schedule a hearing. After the hearing, the officer typically issues a written decision within 30 days. This means the entire process of fighting an unjust eviction can buy you anywhere from one to three months, even if you ultimately decide to move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I still have to pay rent while waiting for the hearing?
Yes. You must continue paying your rent in full and on time. If you stop paying rent because you are angry about the unfair notice, the landlord can legally evict you for non-payment of rent, and you will lose your case.
Can the landlord lock me out or shut off the power?
Absolutely not. Changing the locks, cutting off utilities, or removing your belongings without an official Order of Possession from the RTB is completely illegal in Manitoba. If they do this, contact the RTB and local police immediately.
What is an Order of Possession?
An Order of Possession is a legal document issued by the RTB that formally ends the tenancy and forces the tenant to leave. Only after receiving this order can a landlord hire a sheriff or bailiff to physically remove you.
Can I appeal the RTB hearing decision?
Yes. If you lose the initial hearing, you generally have the right to appeal the decision to the Residential Tenancies Commission (RTC). However, you must file the appeal within the strict timeframe mentioned on your decision letter, usually 7 to 14 days.
What if the landlord moves a new tenant in instead of their family?
If your landlord evicted you claiming their family was moving in, but you discover they rented it to a stranger for more money, this is a bad faith eviction. You can file a claim with the RTB for compensation, which may include your moving costs and higher rent differences.
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