In Guide
Rent Increases in Manitoba for 2024 and Beyond
Manitoba’s rental market has undergone a period of change regarding rent increase regulations. Previously, annual guidelines stated permissible adjustments.
However, in response to economic pressures, the government implemented a two-year freeze on rent increases, effective from 2022 to 2023. This provided much-needed stability for tenants during a time of financial uncertainty.
As of January 1, 2024, a new guideline of 3% has been established. While this allows landlords some ability to adjust rents, it remains significantly below inflation.
Let’s learn about the details of the rent increase Manitoba 2024 and the previous year’s situation. This will help you observe the comparisons and gain more knowledge. So, let’s get started!
Rent Increase Trends in Manitoba (2015-2024)
To understand rent increase trends, you must first understand the history. Before the recent freeze, Manitoba followed a system of annual rent increase guidelines established by the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTA).
These guidelines varied year to year, with data from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) suggesting a range of 2.7% to 5.2% between 2015 and 2018.
It’s important to note that these figures represent average rent increases across the province and may not reflect specific regions or unit types.
In a significant shift, the Manitoba government implemented a two-year freeze in the form of a Manitoba rent increase in 2022 and 2023. This freeze effectively paused any adjustments, providing tenants with stability during a period of economic concern.
While some landlords might have opted for alternative routes like vacancy adjustments, the overall impact was a halt in rent increases across the province.
As of January 1, 2024, Manitoba reintroduced rent increase guidelines. The new guideline sits at 3%, which allows landlords some flexibility in adjusting rents but remains considerably lower than current inflation rates.
How Much Can Rent Increase in Manitoba
Navigating rent increases in Manitoba can feel confusing, but don’t worry! Here’s a clear breakdown for both tenants and landlords:
How Much Can Rent Go Up?
Many people asked about the maximum rent increase Manitoba. The Manitoba government sets a yearly limit on rent increases, called the guideline. As of January 1, 2024, that guideline is 3%.
This means, in most cases, landlords can only raise your rent by a maximum of 3% yearly. It’s important to remember that these guidelines can change from year to year, so keep an eye out for updates.
Exceptions: When Can Rent Go Up More?
Also, people raise the question, “how much can a landlord increase rent in Manitoba.” Well, there are situations where landlords can ask permission to raise rent above the guidelines.
However, they have to justify it. The Residential Tenancies Branch will consider documented increases in property taxes, utilities, or significant repairs the landlord wasn’t responsible for.
Notice and Procedure for Rent Increases in Manitoba
In Manitoba, there are clear rules to protect tenants and landlords. Here’s a quick guide to the process:
Landlords Need To Give Proper Notice
You, as the landlord, must give your tenant a heads-up before raising the rent. This written notice must be delivered at least three months before the new rent kicks in. Use the Notice of Rent Increase (Form 1A) to increase the rent in Manitoba.
Luckily, the Residential Tenancies Branch has a page dedicated to Forms and Notices to make things easier.
Landlords must use the Application for Rent Increase Above Amount Permitted by Regulation (Form 3) to increase rent above the amount permitted by the annual rent increase guideline.
Staying Within the Guidelines
Rent increases generally only happen once a year. There’s also a limit to how much you can raise the rent, and right now (as of January 1, 2024), that limit is set at 3%.
If there’s a good reason you need to raise it more, like a massive property tax hike, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for permission. But be prepared to show some proof!
Tenants must know their Rights!
As a tenant, you have the right to understand why your rent is going up. Carefully review the notice you receive from your landlord. If you think the increase is unfair or above the guidelines, you can fight it!
You have 60 days from the day you get the notice to submit a written objection to the Residential Tenancies Branch.
Factors Influencing Rent Increases
The Manitoba government sets the yearly limit on rent increases, but there’s more to the story than that single number. Behind the scenes, a few key factors influence how much rent goes up:
The Cost of Living
Inflation, property taxes, and utility bills are all on the rise. Landlords must cover these increasing costs to keep their rental properties in good shape. Sometimes, they raise rent to make up the difference.
The Government's Role
The government sets the annual rent increase guideline. They consider how much everything else costs and try to balance keeping rent affordable for tenants and allowing landlords to make a living.
In tough economic times, the government might even freeze rent increases altogether, like they did in Manitoba for 2022 and 2023.
The COVID-19 Curveball
The pandemic threw the rental market a curveball. At first, everyone thought rents might go down because of empty apartments. But then, with more people working from home, some areas became more popular, and rents might go up there.
The recent rent freeze was probably a response to all this economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic.
Tools and Resources for Tenants and Landlords
Here are some tools to help you find your way, whether you’re a tenant or a landlord:
Rent Increase Calculators
Ever wondered, “How much can my rent actually go up?” Some handy online calculators can estimate allowable increases based on Manitoba’s current rent increase guideline. Just make sure the calculator you use references Manitoba specifically!
Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB)
Think of the RTB website as your one-stop shop! The Manitoba government runs it and offers clear information on everything related to rent increases in the province. You’ll find the current guideline, how to apply for exceeding the guideline if needed, and downloadable forms for tenants and landlords.
Legal Advice
If you’re facing a disagreement or a complex situation with a rent increase, consider seeking legal advice from a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law. A lawyer can provide personalized guidance specific to your situation, ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities.
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Conclusion
Manitoba’s rental market has seen significant regulatory changes, notably with the two-year freeze and the new 3% increase guideline starting in 2024. These measures aim to balance tenant stability and landlord costs amidst economic fluctuations.
Stay informed on updates and utilize resources like the Residential Tenancies Branch to navigate these changes effectively. Consider professional legal advice to ensure compliance and understand your rights for further guidance.
Additional Resources
All the pieces of information in the blog have been taken from the following resources:
- https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/tenant/rentincrease.html
- https://www.manitoba.ca/cca/rtb/resource_list/rentincreases.pdf
- https://www.gov.mb.ca/cca/rtb/rentincreaseguideline/currentrentguideline.html
So, if you need more information, you can visit the links above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Rent Increases in Manitoba for 2024
Landlords can generally raise rent by up to 3% annually in Manitoba (as of January 1, 2024).
There are guidelines. You can raise rent by up to the guideline (currently 3%) or apply for an exemption if your costs increase significantly.
The maximum increase is usually 3% annually, but exceptions require justification and approval.
The annual increase is capped at 3% in most cases.
The allowable increase is currently 3%.
If you think the increase is unfair or above the guideline, contact the Residential Tenancies Branch within 60 days of receiving the notice.
The allowable rent increase in Manitoba is currently 3% (as of January 1, 2024).
The maximum rent increase in Manitoba is also 3% annually unless a landlord applies for and receives an exemption due to exceptional circumstances.
. Following the current guidelines, you can increase rent by a maximum percentage of 3% in Manitoba.
2 Comments
Michelle Korobanik
3 months ago -I received an above rent increase 3 months prior to the but it still has not been approved by RTB, so I tried to contest before the 60 day law but told by the RTB commissioner that it has been received but not approved but still have been charged the increase waiting upon the approval RTB . My question is how can we contest it within 60 days if it has not been approved and the RTB commissioner states in still the process of being reviewed?. Why is RTB allowed to go past the allotted time and give the reason they are behind and if it is not approved the money will be returned? Also I have send in numerous complaints to the property manager of problems within my unit such as broken cupboards falling off hinges, parts of my ceiling are non existent causing the smell of neighbours cooking and smell of their bathrooms coming through the non existent ceilings, I have complained about my bathroom fan that has been cleaned in years so I can’t use it. Cigarette burns ion my carpet, skid marks in my bedroom ceiling that was suppose to be painted. I have found bugs crawling in my rugs ( rug bugs) disgusting. All falling on dead eats of the property manager along with the director of Edison properties I even called the Winnipeg foundation. No action taken? I want to end my lease immediately. I have captured these bugs on my furniture in my bed and in the rug. I have them kept in a jar. I want out my lease immediately. I sent all the photos to the RTB.
Michelle
3 months ago -Error*** The bathroom ceiling has not been cleaned in years so I cannot use it because it is a fire hazard also a health and safety matter