Manitoba Security Deposit Laws: Return Deadlines & Limits

Properly managing security deposits is one of the most critical compliance areas for Manitoba landlords. Failure to understand limits and return deadlines can result in landlords forfeiting their right to claim damages.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Manitoba for advice specific to your situation. Information last verified: March 2026.

Maximum Security Deposit Limits

In Manitoba, the limits on deposits are strictly defined by the Residential Tenancies Act, and they are generally lower than what landlords might charge in other regions.

• Standard Security Deposit: The maximum a landlord can charge cannot exceed 50% of the first month's rent, or half a month's rent.
• Tenant Services Security Deposit: In instances where a tenant pays for add-on services directly to the landlord, a tenant services deposit may be collected, up to 50% of one month's tenant services charge.
• Pet Damage Deposits: Permitted in Manitoba for tenancies entered into on or after August 1, 2014. Landlords can charge a pet deposit equal to one month's rent. Note: You may not charge a pet damage deposit for a tenant who relies on a certified service animal.

When receiving a deposit, landlords are required to provide a receipt stating the deposit amount, the date it was received, and the specific unit it applies to.

Returning the Security Deposit

Manitoba imposes a firm timeline for the return of security deposits. Landlords are required to act promptly once a tenancy agreement concludes.

1. Undisputed Return: If the landlord has no claims against the deposit, the deposit must be returned to the tenant within 14 days of the end of the tenancy.
2. Making a Claim: If a landlord intends to make a claim for unpaid rent, damages, or exceptional cleaning, they must explicitly notify the tenant of this claim within 28 days after the tenancy concludes.

What Can Be Deducted

A landlord may only claim from the deposit for the following standard issues:

• Unpaid Rent: Including the timeframe through to the end of the tenancy term.
• Damages: Direct damages exceeding regular "wear and tear."
• Extraordinary Cleaning: A unit must be restored to its move-in level of cleanliness.

Important Note on Missed Deadlines: If a landlord fails to meet the 28-day notification deadline for making a claim, they lose the right to impose any deductions and must return the security deposit in full, regardless of damages to the unit. The landlord would then have to pursue damages through a separate Residential Tenancies Branch claim.

Best Practices for Landlords

To safeguard against disputes with the RTB:

1. Always Document Property Condition: Perform a thorough move-in inspection with signed condition reports, and do the same upon move-out.
2. Keep Impeccable Records: Provide a complete written receipt for the deposit upon payment.
3. Understand the 14/28 Rule: Be deeply aware that returning undisputed funds is a 14-day timeline, but you have up to 28 days to officially register a claim if damage is found.

How Landager Helps

Managing the precise 14-day and 28-day turnaround schedules for Manitoba properties can become complex across multiple units. Landager helps you set up immediate task reminders upon a tenant’s notice to vacate, ensuring you complete condition reports and issue deposit checks well within the RTB compliance window.

Back to Manitoba Landlord-Tenant Laws Overview.