A recent opinion poll conducted by Rentals.ca sheds light on Manitoba housing issues and other rental-related policies as voters prepare to cast their ballots on October 3rd.

Out of the respondents surveyed, a significant 62 per cent identified themselves as renters, while an additional 25 per cent said they are actively seeking rental accommodations. When questioned about the significance of rental housing policies in their voting decisions, 66  per cent claimed that these policies were “very likely” to influence their choice, while 26 per cent indicated they were “somewhat likely.”

A resounding 78 per cent of participants pinpointed high rental prices as the most pressing problem in Manitoba’s current rental market. This concern underscores the economic hardships experienced by many Manitobans and underscores the urgent need for policymakers to address this issue.

In response to the recent announcement by the Manitoba Government regarding the 2024 rent guideline, which sets a 3 per cent increase, Rentals.ca sought to understand the potential impact on voters’ decisions. A substantial 78 per cent of respondents said  they believed that this increase would place a “greater financial burden on tenants without significant benefits.” Additionally, 29 per cent expressed concerns about a potential rise in evictions as a consequence of this policy change.

In addition, a significant 66 per cent of respondents said that strongly agreed that “it is crucial for elected officials to address the shortfall of rental housing supply in Manitoba.”

As the election date looms, 30 per cent of survey participants revealed that they remain undecided about which party to vote for, with 13 per cent of participants stating they do not plan on voting at all.