Security Deposits in Manitoba
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Canadian federal statutes and official sources. Provincial information reflects each province's own legislation and court rulings. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Security deposit rules vary significantly across Canada. What your landlord can collect — and what they must return — depends entirely on your province.
- British Columbia: Maximum of half a month's rent. Must be returned within 15 days of move-out.
- Ontario: Landlords can only collect a last month's rent deposit. Damage deposits are not allowed.
- Alberta: Maximum of one month's rent. Must be returned within 10 days.
- Quebec: Security deposits are illegal. Landlords cannot collect any deposit at all.
In all provinces, landlords can only deduct for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear. Faded paint, minor scuffs, and worn carpet from regular use are not your responsibility.
When does it apply?
- At lease signing — when your landlord collects the deposit.
- At move-out — when the deposit should be returned or deductions applied.
- Applies to all residential tenancies in the province where the rules are set.
What to Do If Your Canadian Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit
- Take detailed photos and videos of the unit at move-in and move-out. Date-stamp everything.
- Request a condition inspection with your landlord before you move in and before you move out.
- If your deposit is not returned on time, send a written request to your landlord by email or registered mail.
- If your deposit is wrongfully withheld, file a claim with your provincial tribunal.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't skip the move-in inspection — without it, you have no proof of the unit's original condition.
- Don't withhold rent to "use up" your deposit. That is a lease violation and can lead to eviction.
- Don't pay more than the legal maximum for your province.
- In Quebec, don't pay any deposit at all — it is illegal for your landlord to ask for one.
How Manitoba differs from federal law
Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Act limits security deposits and sets strict rules for how landlords handle them.
- A landlord can collect a security deposit of up to one-half of one month's rent. This is one of the lowest caps in Canada.
- The deposit must be held in trust and the landlord must pay annual interest on the deposit at a rate set by the province each year.
- The deposit can only be used for unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear (scuff marks, minor nail holes, faded paint) is the landlord's responsibility.
- After you move out, the landlord must return the deposit (plus interest, minus any legitimate deductions) within 14 business days if you provide a forwarding address, or hold it in trust for up to 2 years.
- If there is a dispute about deductions, either party can apply to the RTB for a ruling.
Additional Steps in Manitoba
When moving out, provide your landlord with a forwarding address in writing to ensure timely return of your deposit. Do a move-out inspection and take dated photos of the unit's condition. If your landlord does not return the deposit or makes unfair deductions, file a claim with the Residential Tenancies Branch at 204-945-2476 or 1-800-782-8403.
Relevant Law: Residential Tenancies Act, CCSM c. R119.3, ss. 41–47 (Security Deposits)
Common Questions
When does security deposits apply?
At lease signing — when your landlord collects the deposit.At move-out — when the deposit should be returned or deductions applied.Applies to all residential tenancies in the province where the rules are set.
What should I do if my landlord in Canada is refusing to return my security deposit?
Take detailed photos and videos of the unit at move-in and move-out. Date-stamp everything.Request a condition inspection with your landlord before you move in and before you move out.If your deposit is not returned on time, send a written request to your landlord by email or registered mail.If your deposit is wrongfully withheld, file a claim with your provincial tribunal.
What mistakes should I avoid with security deposits?
Don't skip the move-in inspection — without it, you have no proof of the unit's original condition.Don't withhold rent to "use up" your deposit. That is a lease violation and can lead to eviction.Don't pay more than the legal maximum for your province.In Quebec, don't pay any deposit at all — it is illegal for your landlord to ask for one.
Security Deposits in other states
Same topic, different jurisdiction. Pick the one that applies to you.