2012 Rent Increase Guideline
In Manitoba, the 2012 rent increase guideline is 1.0 per cent, effective Jan. 1, 2012.
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants must be given proper written notice at least three months before the rent increase takes effect. The branch provides rent increase forms for landlords to use. In most circumstances, rents can only be increased once a year.
The guideline applies to rented residential apartments, single rooms, houses and duplexes.
There are some exceptions to the guideline. These are:
premises renting for $1,130.00 or more per month as of Dec. 31, 2011;
personal care homes;
approved rehabilitated rental units;
new buildings less than 15 years old where an occupancy permit was first issued or a unit was first occupied after April 9, 2001; and
new buildings less than 20 years old where an occupancy permit was first issued or a unit was first occupied after March 7, 2005.
Tenants can object to any increase in rent regardless of whether it is at, below or above the guideline. Landlords can apply for a larger increase if they can demonstrate that the guideline amount will not cover cost increases they have incurred.
The economic adjustment factor for 2012 is 0.5%. The economic Adjustment Factor helps to offset the costs of inflation.
Early Termination of Leases
The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act (Expanded Grounds for Early Termination) was passed by the Manitoba’s legislature on Thursday, June 16, 2011. The following two provisions are now in force :
Tenants who are victims of domestic violence may terminate fixed-term tenancy agreements with notice of one rental payment period. Tenants will require a certificate from Victim Services of Justice to be able to give notice in these circumstances.
Tenants who are no longer able to access their rental units because of a deterioration in health may terminate fixed-term tenancy agreements with notice of one rental payment period. Tenants will need supporting documents from their doctor.
There is one additional provision that will come into force on proclamation later this year:
Tenants who are Canadian Forces members may terminate fixed-term tenancy agreements with a prescribed period of notice if they are transferred to a location that is at least 50 kilometres from their rental unit. Tenants will need supporting documents from their commanding officers.
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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.
