Manitoba Security Deposit Rules: Half a Month & Getting It Back
Manitoba caps what a landlord can hold and gives them a tight deadline to give it back. Here's exactly what a landlord can charge, what they can keep, and how to recover your deposit.
How Much Can They Charge?
In Manitoba a security deposit can't be more than half of one month's rent, calculated on the full rent — not a discounted or promotional rate. A landlord can't demand extra cleaning, key, or pet deposits on top.
Your Deposit Earns Interest
The landlord holds your deposit in trust, and it must earn interest at the rate set by the province each year. It's modest, but it's owed to you when the deposit is returned.
The 14-Day Return Rule
After your tenancy ends, the landlord generally has 14 days to return your deposit (with interest) if they have no claim against it. If they want to keep part of it for unpaid rent or damage, they must make a claim — they can't simply hold onto it.
What They Can Deduct
Deductions are limited to specific things:
- Unpaid rent you owe at the end of the tenancy.
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- Not normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet, minor marks.
If There's a Dispute
If the landlord won't return your deposit or you disagree with a deduction, contact Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB). The Branch can order the deposit returned and resolve the claim. Take photos at move-out to back up your case.