Frequently Asked Questions

• Once my application is approved, when will I receive housing?
• Where is your housing located?
• Can I look at the residence before I accept it?
• When can I get my keys?
• How is my rent calculated?
• How often is my rent payment reviewed?
• What if my income decreases during my tenancy?
• What is the length of my tenancy agreement?

Once my application is approved, when will I receive housing?

MHA staff will find housing for you dependent on the number of people in your household and according to your housing needs. Under normal circumstances, the MHA does not provide emergency housing.

If suitable housing is not available, you may be placed on a “waiting list.”

If suitable housing is available:

• MHA staff will make an appointment for you to see the proposed place of residence.
• Call the MHA as soon as possible to let them know if you will be taking the residence you have seen. The MHA cannot hold a place of residence longer than 3 days.
• When you call to accept the residence, please make an appointment to fill out the rental documents.

Where is your housing located?

The Manitoba Housing Authority manages over 13,000 residences throughout the province. You may choose which geographical area where you prefer to live.

Examples of communities with MHA housing are available on our Housing Income Limits page. For locations of seniors residences, see Senior 55+ Housing Accommodations.

The Manitoba Housing Authority has a limited number of wheelchair accessible residences. It is important to indicate on your application form that you require wheelchair accessible accommodation.

Can I look at the residence before I accept it?

MHA staff will make an appointment for you to see the proposed place of residence. Call the MHA staff as soon as possible to let them know if you will be taking the residence you have seen. The MHA cannot hold a place of residence longer than 3 business days. When you call to accept the residence, please make an appointment to fill out the lease documents.

When can I get my keys?

Keys will only be released once the tenancy agreement is signed and the rent payment for the first month is received.

How is my rent calculated?

Generally, rent is based on an affordable percentage of the household's total gross income. MHA staff will explain each specific situation.

Studio Apartment: 25% of total gross income
1 or More Bedrooms: 27% of total gross income

In some locations, market rents are available. The cost of utilities, such as gas, heat and electricity may vary.

How often is my rent payment reviewed?

Each year tenants will provide verification of current income to MHA staff. At that time, MHA staff will review the rent calculation, adjust the rent payment if needed and complete the rental documents.

What if my income decreases during my tenancy?

Income reductions of $40 or more in any given month may be reported to the MHA if you are seeking a reduction in the current month's rent. Your monthly income (along with proof of income) will be reviewed by a staff member and your rent payment may be lowered as a result.

What is the length of my tenancy agreement?

All tenancy is on a month-to-month basis. One calendar month's notice is needed before moving out. Please give your notice to the MHA office before the first of the month.

For more information about the Manitoba Housing Authority, please contact one of our MHA Office Locations.