If you're renting in Alberta and your landlord has entered your home without proper notice, you might wonder what rights you have and what actions you can take. Canadian law recognizes your right to privacy, and Alberta has strict rules that landlords must follow when entering a tenant's unit. Let’s explore your options and responsibilities as a tenant facing unauthorized entry.

Your Right to Privacy: Key Rules for Landlord Entry in Alberta

In Alberta, tenants have the right to enjoy their rental home peacefully and privately. The law, specifically the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), outlines when and how a landlord may legally enter your unit¹. Landlords must give notice except in emergency situations (such as fires or urgent repairs risking safety).

• 24 Hours' Written Notice: Your landlord must give you a written notice at least 24 hours before entering the rental unit.
• Permitted Entry Times: Entry can only occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., and cannot be on holidays or your day of religious worship (if you informed them in writing).
• Valid Reasons Only: Entry is limited to reasons like repairs, inspections, showing the property to potential tenants, or emergencies.
• Immediate Entry Allowed: Only in genuine emergencies, such as major water leaks or fire hazards, may entry occur without notice.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta provides a clear summary of these rules and your protected rights as a tenant.

What Counts as Illegal Entry?

Illegal entry happens when your landlord enters your unit without following the notice requirements, outside permitted hours, or for reasons not allowed by law. Even if the landlord owns the property, tenants' privacy is strongly protected under the RTA.

• Entering without 24 hours' notice (except emergencies)
• Using a key or other method to enter when you are not home, with no notice
• Entering for non-emergency reasons outside legal hours or after you have said your day of worship

What To Do If Your Landlord Illegally Enters

Stay calm and document the situation carefully. Taking these steps will help uphold your rights and provide evidence if you need to file a complaint or claim for damages.

Step 1: Document What Happened

• Write down the exact date, time, and reason (if given) for the landlord's entry.
• Take photos of any evidence, such as a note left by the landlord, or disturbances in your space.
• Talk to neighbours who may have seen your landlord enter.

Step 2: Communicate With Your Landlord

• Politely inform your landlord the entry did not follow legal requirements.
• Request that your landlord respect the correct process in the future.
• If you feel comfortable, do this in writing (email or letter), so you have a record.

Step 3: File a Formal Complaint

• If the illegal entry continues or was a serious violation, you can file a complaint or seek compensation through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
• The official form used is the RTDRS Application Form.
• Complete the form, indicating "Breach of Privacy" or "Illegal Entry" as the main issue, attach your evidence, and submit as instructed by the RTDRS (in-person, by mail, or online).

The RTDRS can order the landlord to stop unauthorized entries, pay damages, or take other actions under the law.

Step 4: Consider Mediation or Further Action

• The RTDRS may suggest mediation first.
• If the matter is serious or you feel unsafe, you may also contact the police, especially if there are threats, theft, or repeated unlawful entries.

See Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for guidance on addressing ongoing problems with landlords.

Do Illegal Entries Affect Your Lease or Eviction?

Illegal entry does not give landlords the right to end your tenancy or evict you. In fact, repeated illegal entry by a landlord may be grounds for you to claim damages, end your lease early, or ask the tribunal for remedies. If you're wondering about other situations that could affect your tenancy, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What the Law Says: Your Tenant Rights

The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) is the main legislation in Alberta protecting tenant privacy and regulating landlord entry¹. The law makes clear that landlords must respect notice periods and valid reasons for visiting your unit. Repeated violations can result in orders against the landlord and possible compensation for you.

If you’re searching for a new place where your privacy is respected, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and enjoy a secure renting experience.

FAQ: Illegal Landlord Entry in Alberta

1. Can my landlord enter my rental without my permission?
   If it’s not an emergency and you haven’t been given proper written notice (24 hours), your landlord cannot legally enter your unit.
2. What should I do if my landlord repeatedly enters without notice?
   Document each incident, communicate your concerns in writing, and file a complaint with the RTDRS if it continues.
3. What is the RTDRS and how can it help me?
   The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is an official Alberta tribunal that handles landlord-tenant disputes, including illegal entry claims. You can apply for remedies such as compensation or an order requiring your landlord to stop this behaviour.
4. Am I allowed to change my locks?
   No, Alberta law does not let tenants change locks without the landlord’s written consent—even after illegal entry. Instead, take formal action through the RTDRS.
5. Does illegal entry mean I can stop paying rent?
   No. Keep paying your rent on time. Withholding rent could give your landlord grounds for eviction under the RTA.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Landlords need 24 hours’ written notice (except emergencies) to enter your unit.
• Repeated illegal entries can be challenged with evidence through the RTDRS.
• Always document the incident and know your rights—your privacy is protected by law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Official tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes in Alberta
• Service Alberta: Residential Tenancies Resources: Government guides, forms, and contact information
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA): Tenant rights info and free resources
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta: Easy-to-read summary of rights and obligations

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1. See: Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) [Current Version]

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