The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Effective Jan. 1, 2006, the guideline for Manitoba rent increases will be 2.5 per cent, Finance Minister Greg Selinger has announced. The amount of the guideline is determined by reviewing increases in utility costs, property taxes, insurance, repair and maintenance and other costs that are relevant to the operation of a residential complex. "The rent guideline takes into consideration the expenses that landlords incur, while helping to ensure that rents remain affordable for tenants," said Selinger. Landlords can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for rent increases above the guideline if they can show it will not cover cost increases they have incurred. If tenants have concerns or objections to any increase in rent, whether it is at, below or above the guideline, they can write to the branch at least 60 days before the date of the rent increase. The guideline applies to residential rental property including apartments, single rooms, houses and duplexes renting for less than $1,025 per month as of Dec. 31, 2005. The guideline does not apply to: properties renting for or above $1,025 per month as of Dec. 31, 2005; personal-care homes and non-profit housing with subsidized rent; approved rehabilitated rental units; and new buildings that are: -Ê less than 15 years old, where an occupancy permit was first issued or a unit was first occupied after April 9, 2001; or -Ê less than 20 years old, where an occupancy permit was first issued or a unit was first occupied after March 7, 2005. Selinger emphasized that rents cannot increase, even by the guideline amount, unless the tenant has been given proper notice of at least three months before the increase takes effect. With very few exceptions, rents can only be increased once a year. For more information, log onto www.residentialtenancies.mb.ca or call 1-800-782-8403.
