How to break a lease in Manitoba

This guide covers Manitoba tenancy law only. For other provinces, see our [rental laws guides].

In Manitoba, leases are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act and administered by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). Breaking a fixed-term lease early is only permitted in specific circumstances. Tenants who leave without following the correct process may remain financially liable for unpaid rent.

Mutual Agreement

The simplest way to end a lease early is a written agreement between the landlord and tenant. Both parties agree on a move-out date and confirm the arrangement in writing. This avoids the need for formal applications or dispute resolution.

Finding a Replacement Tenant

In practice, many Manitoba landlords will accept a qualified replacement tenant as a way to release the original tenant from the lease early. Any such arrangement should be confirmed in writing by the landlord before the original tenant vacates.

Landlord Breach or Uninhabitable Conditions

If a landlord has seriously failed in their obligations, such as failing to maintain a habitable unit or repeatedly violating the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment, the tenant may have grounds to end the tenancy early. Contact the RTB for guidance before vacating.

Ending a Periodic Tenancy

For a month-to-month tenancy in Manitoba, tenants must give at least one full rental period's written notice before the end of a rental period to end the tenancy without penalty.

What Happens If a Tenant Leaves Without Following the Process?

A tenant who abandons a fixed-term lease without a legal basis may owe rent for the remainder of the term. However, landlords in Manitoba have a duty to mitigate by making reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit. If they re-rent quickly, the former tenant's liability is reduced accordingly.

Getting Help

The RTB can advise both landlords and tenants on the correct process for ending a tenancy early. Contact them at 204-945-2476 in Winnipeg, or toll-free at 1-800-782-8403 elsewhere in Manitoba.

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