Can a landlord enter my apartment without my permission?

What the Law Says

Landlord entry rights in Canada are governed by provincial and territorial residential tenancy acts. These laws strictly limit when and how a landlord may enter a tenant’s unit, requiring advance notice in most cases — unless an emergency exists.

In British Columbia, the Residential Tenancy Act requires at least 24 hours’ written notice before entry for inspections, repairs, or showings — and the entry must occur between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.

In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 mandates 24 hours’ written notice for maintenance or repairs, and permits entry only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless the tenant consents otherwise.

In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act requires 24 hours’ notice for routine maintenance but 72 hours’ notice for showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers.

All provinces prohibit entry without consent or notice except in genuine emergencies — such as fire, gas leaks, flooding, or imminent risk of serious damage or injury.

Statutory Text

The landlord must give the tenant at least 24 hours' written notice before entering the rental unit.

— Residential Tenancy Act, S.B.C. 2002, c. 78, s. 27(2)

Statutory Text

A landlord may enter a rental unit without the tenant’s consent only if the entry is necessary to prevent damage or injury in an emergency.

— Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, S.O. 2006, c. 17, s. 27(2)

What Courts Have Said

Courts across Canada have consistently upheld tenants’ rights to quiet enjoyment and privacy, treating unauthorized entry as a breach of tenancy agreements and sometimes as harassment.

What to Do

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