SingaporeMy landlord entered my flat without notice. Is this trespass?
Yes, your landlord entering your flat without notice may amount to trespass under Singapore law, as tenants have exclusive possession and landlords must give reasonable notice before entry unless an emergency exists.
What the Law Says
The Residential Property Act governs landlord-tenant relationships in Singapore and sets out the legal boundaries for property access. While the statute does not define 'trespass' directly, it affirms the tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment and exclusive possession — foundational principles that make unauthorised entry unlawful.
Under Singapore law, once a tenancy agreement is in place, the tenant holds exclusive possession of the premises. This means the landlord generally loses the right to enter without the tenant’s consent or proper notice.
The Residential Property Act does not specify exact notice periods, but courts and practice treat 'reasonable notice' — typically at least 24 hours — as the standard, unless urgent repairs or safety hazards require immediate access.
Importantly, the Act implies that any entry without consent or lawful justification interferes with the tenant’s possessory rights — a key element of civil trespass.
Statutory Text— Residential Property Act, s. 3 — Cap. 274, 2009 Rev Ed
What to Do
Check your tenancy agreement for any clauses about landlord access and notice requirements.
Document the unauthorised entry (date, time, photos, witnesses) and send a written reminder to your landlord citing your right to exclusive possession.
If entry repeats or causes distress, request a written undertaking from the landlord to provide reasonable notice before future access.
For persistent breaches, consider seeking mediation via the Community Mediation Centres (CMC) or filing a claim in the Small Claims Tribunal if damages are involved.
Sources
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IndiaNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.