Winnipeg Security Deposit Rules for Tenancies

Housing and Building Standards Manitoba 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Manitoba

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, security deposit practices for residential tenancies are governed primarily by provincial residential tenancies law and the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch. This guide explains what landlords and tenants should expect for deposits, how deposits must be handled, and the steps to recover a deposit after tenancy ends. Where the city administers related licensing or complaint intake, those local routes are noted. For statutory detail and dispute processes see the provincial Residential Tenancies Branch and the Residential Tenancies Act.Residential Tenancies Branch[1] and the consolidated statute.Residential Tenancies Act (CCSM c. R119)[2]

What is a security deposit?

A security deposit is money paid by a tenant to secure performance of the tenancy agreement and cover unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. Landlords must hold deposits according to provincial rules and account for them when the tenancy ends.

Keep written receipts and a dated condition report when the deposit is given.

Key landlord and tenant obligations

  • Landlords must document deposits in the tenancy agreement and provide receipts where required.
  • Tenants should file a move-in condition report and keep copies to avoid disputes.
  • Deposits must be returned or an itemized deduction provided at the end of tenancy according to statutory timing.
  • Both parties should use official dispute or adjudication routes for contested deductions.

Penalties & Enforcement

Authority and enforcement: deposit rules and dispute adjudication fall under the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch and the Residential Tenancies Act (CCSM c. R119). Specific fine amounts and daily penalties for deposit breaches are not specified on the cited Residential Tenancies Branch guidance page; consult the statute link for legislative remedies and orders.[1][2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first or repeat offence ranges are not specified on the cited page; adjudicator or tribunal orders apply as provided by statute.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: tribunals may order repayment of deposits, interest, and costs; injunctions or court enforcement are available for noncompliance.
  • Enforcer: Residential Tenancies Branch handles applications and complaints; local by-law offices may accept related complaints about licensing or business conduct.
If a landlord refuses to return a deposit, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch promptly.

Applications & Forms

The Residential Tenancies Branch provides application forms for dispute resolution and filing claims about deposits. If a specific deposit form number or fee is required, it will appear on the Branch pages or the statutory schedules; where not published, the form number or fee is not specified on the cited page.[1]

How deductions are typically assessed

  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear may justify itemized deductions supported by receipts or estimates.
  • Charges for unpaid rent or utilities must be supported by the tenancy record.
  • Photographic evidence and move-in/out reports reduce dispute risk.
Document all communications in writing and keep a copy of any settlement offers.

Action steps for tenants

  • Request a written receipt when you pay a deposit and complete a move-in condition report.
  • Before vacating, notify the landlord in writing of your forwarding address and request an itemized statement if deductions are proposed.
  • If the landlord withholds the deposit and you disagree, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Branch to seek an order for repayment.

FAQ

Can a landlord require more than one month’s rent as a deposit?
No. The maximum deposit amount is set by provincial rules or the tenancy agreement; check the Residential Tenancies Act and Branch guidance for the exact limit and any statutory cap.
How long does a landlord have to return a deposit?
Timing for return or provision of an itemized statement is set by provincial rules; if the statutory timing is not located on the guidance page, consult the Residential Tenancies Act.
What if the landlord sells the property?
Deposit obligations transfer with ownership; the new owner must account for existing deposits or the original landlord remains accountable until the tenant is repaid.

How-To

  1. Document the condition: complete a move-in report and take dated photos on the first day of tenancy.
  2. Keep receipts: retain proof of payment for the deposit and any repairs you pay for during tenancy.
  3. Request return: at tenancy end, ask the landlord in writing for return and an itemized statement if deductions are proposed.
  4. File a claim: if unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch with your evidence and form; follow Branch instructions for hearings.

Key Takeaways

  • Security deposit rules are governed by Manitoba law and administered by the Residential Tenancies Branch.
  • Keep written receipts and move-in/out reports to protect your rights.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Residential Tenancies Branch - Government of Manitoba
  2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (CCSM c. R119)

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