Manitoba landlords need to come up to speed on recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act:
August 1, 2014 Changes
According to the Residential Tenancies Branch, landlords who allow pets can charge a pet damage deposit equal to one month’s rent. If a current tenant has already paid a pet damage deposit, they cannot be asked to increase the amount.
Landlords are limited in their ability to carry out renovations. If a renovation interferes with a tenant’s enjoyment of the unit and this causes them to move out, the landlord is considered to have terminated the tenancy. If that case, the landlord may be liable for tenants’ moving expenses and any increased rent for up to a year.
Tenants and guests are prohibited from causing damage or disrupting other tenants. The landlord has the right to give notice of termination and the Branch can grant an Order for Possession in some cases even if the tenant has not been convicted of an offence. However, the landlord must show sufficient evidence of an infraction.
These rules became effective as of August 1, 2014.
January 1, 2015 Changes
Beginning January 1, 2015, a number of changes will be made to above-guideline rent increases. These changes affect the allowable portion of some capital expenditures, the number of components a landlord must complete to qualify for a rehabilitation scheme (changed from two to three), and limits on when landlords provide notice to tenants. Exemption periods, and the application process also will change.
To find out more about these changes, contact the branch office nearest you.
Service Animals Seminar
Also, Manitoba landlords interested in learning more about requirements for service animals can attend a seminar presented by the Human Rights Commission. This area of law can be confusing, especially for those with no-pet policies.
The discussion will be held on Wednesday September 24, at a location to be determined. Visit www.manitobahumanrights.ca for more information.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this post in not intended to be construed as legal advice, nor should it be considered a substitute for obtaining individual legal counsel or consulting your local, state, federal or provincial tenancy laws.
