When you rent a home or apartment in Alberta, understanding your rights around landlord entry is essential. Landlords can’t enter your unit whenever they want—there are strict notice requirements set out in the law to protect your privacy and security. This guide explains what kind of notice your landlord must provide to enter for inspections, repairs, and other reasons, so you feel confident and informed as a tenant.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental in Alberta?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), Alberta landlords can enter a rental unit only for certain reasons, such as:

• To inspect the property
• To make repairs or conduct maintenance
• To show the property to potential buyers or new tenants
• If the tenant consents to entry
• In an emergency (like a fire or urgent repair)

Most of the time, your landlord must give written notice before entering your home—except in emergencies.

Notice Requirements for Non-Emergency Entry

Alberta law requires landlords to provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental unit for most reasons. The notice must include:

• The intended date and time of entry
• The reason for entry
• Entry must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree otherwise

Notice can be given in person, by mail, or posted on your door.

Exceptions: Emergencies and Consent

If there is an emergency—such as a fire, flood, or urgent repair—a landlord may enter your rental without notice. If you voluntarily allow the landlord in (consent), formal notice is not required. Otherwise, written notice is always necessary.

What Does Proper Written Notice Look Like?

A proper notice to enter your home in Alberta should be clear, specific, and delivered in advance. There isn’t a government-mandated form for landlord entry, but many landlords use a simple written letter or email.

• Tip: Save copies of all entry notices you receive. If you disagree with what’s happening, having a record helps protect your rights.

If a Landlord Breaks Entry Rules

If your landlord enters without proper notice, here are steps you can take:

• Politely remind the landlord of Alberta’s 24-hour written notice rule and your right to privacy
• Document the incident—write down the date, time, and what happened
• If the issue continues, you may file a complaint or apply to the RTDRS for an order to stop the landlord from entering improperly

For information on all types of tenant and landlord responsibilities, refer to Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. Knowing your rights ensures a safe and respectful rental experience.

Official Forms and Applications

Unlike eviction or maintenance requests, Alberta does not have a specific government-issued form for landlords to notify tenants of entry. Normal practice is for the landlord to provide written notice (letter, email, or note on the door) that includes the date, time, and reason for entry.

If your landlord repeatedly violates the law, you may apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). The application uses the form "Application for Dispute Resolution" (Form RTDRS01). File this if you want to seek an order for the landlord to follow entry rules, or to make a complaint. Access and complete the form through the official government portal.

• Example: If your landlord comes in repeatedly without notice and ignores your requests to follow the law, file Form RTDRS01 to ask the RTDRS to order your landlord to stop and respect the rules.

Health and Safety During Entry

Your landlord must always respect your privacy and follow health and safety rules when entering your unit. For more details about what landlords can and can’t do, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Looking for more resources or a new place to call home? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

For a broader overview of Alberta’s rental regulations, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter my rental without any notice?
   Landlords in Alberta may only enter without notice in emergencies or if you have given them direct consent. Otherwise, a minimum of 24 hours’ written notice is required.
2. What if I refuse entry after proper notice is given?
   If your landlord has given proper written notice according to the Residential Tenancies Act, you generally cannot refuse entry unless the requested date or time is unreasonable. Communication helps resolve most disagreements.
3. Does the notice have to be on a specific form?
   No. Alberta law does not require a standardized form for entry notice—a dated, written message stating the purpose, date, and time is sufficient.
4. What can I do if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
   Record each incident and contact the landlord to request they follow the law. If the problem continues, file a complaint or application with the RTDRS for an official order.
5. Can my landlord enter when I’m not home?
   Yes, if they’ve provided proper notice and entry is during the legal hours, your landlord can enter even if you’re not present.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Landlords must usually provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental.
• Emergencies and tenant consent are the only exceptions to advance notice.
• Keep records of all notices and entry incidents to protect your rights.

Knowing these rules empowers you to maintain a respectful, safe home in Alberta.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Apply online, phone 1-780-644-3000, or visit a Service Alberta office
• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act: Full provincial legislation governing landlord and tenant relationships
• Local tenant support: Contact the Public Legal Education Association of Alberta for guidance
• For tenancy issues, learn about Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, RSA 2000, c. R-17, Alberta Government
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), Service Alberta
3. RTDRS Forms, Official Alberta Government Forms

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