Roommate rental laws in Manitoba

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

In Manitoba, the rules around shared housing and roommates fall under the Residential Tenancies Act, administered by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). Understanding how different arrangements work helps everyone in a shared rental know their rights and responsibilities.

What Are the Main Types of Roommate Arrangements?

Co-tenants: Two or more people who have signed the same lease. Each co-tenant is equally and fully responsible to the landlord for rent and the condition of the unit. If one co-tenant stops paying, the other remains liable for the full amount.

Occupants: One person has signed the lease and allows another to live in the unit. The occupant pays rent to the named tenant and has no direct legal relationship with the landlord.

Subtenants: The named tenant temporarily vacates and allows another person to occupy the unit while the original lease remains in place. Subletting requires the landlord's consent, which cannot be unreasonably withheld.

Do You Need the Landlord's Permission to Add a Roommate?

To add someone to the lease as a co-tenant, the landlord's agreement is required. Having both names on the lease and on utility accounts is strongly recommended, according to Globe Property Management, as it ensures each person is directly accountable for their share of costs and protects both parties if the arrangement breaks down.

What Happens When a Roommate Wants to Leave?

If a co-tenant wants to leave before the lease ends, they cannot simply remove themselves from the lease without the landlord's agreement. The remaining tenant should speak with the landlord about finding a replacement or adjusting the arrangement. Contacting the RTB for guidance is advisable if agreement cannot be reached.

What Is a Roommate Agreement?

A roommate agreement is a private document between housemates covering rent splits, utilities, shared responsibilities, and house rules. It is not a lease and does not replace the tenancy agreement, but it provides a useful record of what was agreed between housemates and can help resolve disputes.

What Protection Does an Occupant Have?

An occupant who is not on the lease has no rights under the Residential Tenancies Act against the landlord. If the named tenant is evicted or moves out, the occupant has no independent legal standing to remain.

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