Many Alberta tenants are familiar with the rule: landlords must provide 24-hour written notice before entering your rental unit. But are there circumstances where this notice period doesn't apply? Understanding your privacy rights—and the important exceptions—is essential for any tenant wanting to feel secure at home.

When Can a Landlord Enter Without 24-Hour Notice in Alberta?

Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act clearly outlines your right to reasonable privacy and how landlords must notify you about entry. The standard rule is 24 hours’ written notice, but certain situations allow entry with little or no advance warning:

• Emergencies: If there’s an emergency (for example, a fire, flood, or gas leak), your landlord may enter immediately, even without notice.
• Consent: If you agree—verbally or in writing—the landlord can enter at a mutually convenient time, with or without formal notice.
• Abandonment: If your landlord reasonably believes you’ve abandoned the property, they may enter to inspect and secure the premise.

Emergency Entry: What Counts as an Emergency?

An emergency means a situation threatening the safety of people or property—urgent repairs, fire, flooding, or sudden health risks. If you experience frequent or unjustified emergency entries, you may want to learn more about your rights around Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Inspection After Abandonment

If your landlord suspects you’ve moved out without notice—perhaps the unit is empty, and rent is unpaid—they may enter to confirm abandonment. The law expects landlords to use reasonable judgment and document their observations.

Standard 24-Hour Notice: What It Includes

Outside of those exceptions, landlords must provide a written notice with:

• The date and approximate time of entry
• A reason for entry (such as inspection, repairs, or showing the unit to new tenants)

The notice must be served at least 24 hours in advance and can only permit entry between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The property manager or landlord cannot enter repeatedly to inspect or disrupt your quiet enjoyment of the property. For a full view of your rights at different stages, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

If Your Landlord Enters Without Proper Notice

Repeated or unjustified entry by your landlord may violate your privacy rights. In such cases, consider these steps:

• Politely remind the landlord of the need for proper notice under the Residential Tenancies Act
• Document the dates and times of entry, and details of any communication
• If necessary, seek help from the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or Service Alberta

Learn more about landlord and tenant obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Forms & Official Steps for Tenants in Alberta

• Notice of Entry: While this is typically completed by landlords, tenants should verify that a Notice of Entry includes date, time, and reason for entry. There is no provincially mandated form, but you may request written proof.
• Complaint to RTDRS or Service Alberta: If your landlord enters improperly, you can file a dispute online or in person. Visit the RTDRS official portal to access forms and submission details.

As a tenant, you are entitled to privacy, safety, and dignity while renting. If you’re facing persistent illegal entries, keep detailed records and seek guidance from official Alberta resources.

Other Relevant Issues

Problems with unauthorized entry often overlaps with broader topics like health and safety or complaints. If your landlord enters to address urgent repairs, your rights are protected—see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for guidance on required maintenance and how to address hazards.

For renters anywhere in Canada wanting stress-free moves and secure housing, explore Houseme - your rental solution in Canada for simple, safe apartment searches and new listings from coast to coast.

FAQs About Landlord Entry in Alberta

1. Can a landlord enter my unit without giving any notice?
   Only in the case of an emergency, tenant consent, or suspected abandonment can the landlord enter without 24-hour notice. For all other reasons, written notice is required.
2. What should be included in a landlord's notice to enter?
   The notice must state the date, estimated time of entry, and the reason for the visit. Entry should take place between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
3. Can I refuse a landlord entry if they don't provide proper notice?
   Yes, unless it’s an emergency, tenant consent, or suspected abandonment, you can deny entry if notice requirements aren't met.
4. Who oversees tenancy disputes involving privacy and entry in Alberta?
   The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles most disputes between tenants and landlords, including privacy concerns.
5. What are my options if my landlord repeatedly enters without notice?
   Document the incidents, communicate your concerns, and consider filing a complaint with the RTDRS or Service Alberta.

Conclusion: What Alberta Tenants Need to Remember

• Landlords generally need to give 24-hour written notice to enter your home, except in emergencies, with your consent, or when abandonment is suspected.
• Entry rules are set by the Residential Tenancies Act. Know your rights and keep records of any issues.
• If you have ongoing privacy concerns, Alberta’s RTDRS offers clear dispute resolution options for tenants.

Understanding these exceptions will help you confidently navigate privacy issues in your Alberta rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Service Alberta – Landlord and Tenant Info (official provincial guide)
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – dispute resolution and forms
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta: Tenant Guides
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, Alberta (2024 consolidation)
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Official Alberta government dispute portal
3. Service Alberta Landlord & Tenant Guide: alberta.ca/landlords-tenants-responsibilities

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy