Landlord entry into a tenant’s unit is a critical privacy issue for renters in Alberta. With smartphones making it easy to record audio or video, many tenants wonder if it’s legal—and wise—to record when their landlord enters their home. This article outlines Alberta’s regulations, your rights, and practical steps for protecting your interests.

Landlord Entry Rules in Alberta: What the Law Says

In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)¹ lays out when and how a landlord can enter a rental unit. Generally, a landlord must:

• Give the tenant at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering (except in emergencies)
• State the reason for entry and the date/time
• Enter between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless the tenant agrees otherwise

Landlords can enter without notice only in emergencies, such as urgent repairs or fire. For a full explanation of entry rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Can Tenants Legally Record Landlord Entry?

Alberta’s privacy and recording laws allow tenants to record interactions—audio, video, or both—if one party to the conversation consents. This is known as "one-party consent." As a tenant, you are a party to the conversation and can record your own interactions, including when your landlord enters your unit while you are present.

Key Point: You cannot legally record audio of private conversations between your landlord and others if you are not part of that conversation. It is also illegal to record video in a place where someone has a "reasonable expectation of privacy" without their consent (such as a washroom or bedroom when someone is present without being informed).

For most routine landlord entries (such as inspections or repairs), tenants present can use their phone or other device to document the entry for their own records.

When Is Recording Especially Advisable?

• If you feel intimidated or uncomfortable during an entry
• To document property condition before/after repairs or inspections
• If there have been disputes about past entries or communication

Forms and Documentation for Landlord Entries

The Alberta RTA does not require a specific government form for a landlord’s entry notice. However, written notice is mandatory except in emergencies. Written notices should include:

• The reason for entry
• The date and time (or timeframe) of entry

If you need to file a complaint about repeated or unlawful entries, document each incident in writing with dates, times, and what occurred—including any recordings you have made. Attach copies of entry notices and correspondence.

How to File a Complaint: Service Alberta's Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service

Serious concerns over privacy or unlawful entry can be addressed through Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). This tribunal handles disputes between landlords and tenants across Alberta. Learn more and start an application at RTDRS official site.

Example: Protecting Your Rights During Entry

Suppose your landlord enters without proper notice and you are present. You can:

• Politely state you are documenting the visit (audio, video, or both)
• Keep your recording focused on the entry and interaction
• Log the date, time, and details immediately afterward

If ongoing issues occur, reference your documentation and consider taking next steps at the RTDRS, or reviewing Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Other Tenant Rights Related to Privacy and Entry

Your right to privacy in your rental is protected by law. While landlords have the right to maintain and inspect the unit, they must follow proper notice procedures. If there are damages or disputes over repairs, visit Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions: Alberta Tenant Privacy & Recording

1. Can my landlord stop me from recording their entry?
   No. If you are present, as a party to the interaction, you may record audio or video for your personal use as long as you do not violate anyone else’s reasonable expectation of privacy.
2. Can I set up a hidden camera to record entries when I’m not home?
   In Alberta, you may set up a video-only camera in common areas (such as your living room), but audio recording when you are not present may be illegal. Always inform guests and visitors, and avoid recording private spaces like bathrooms.
3. What should an entry notice from my landlord include?
   The written notice must state the reason for entry, as well as the date and approximate time. It must be delivered at least 24 hours before entry.
4. Who do I contact if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
   You can make a complaint or seek dispute resolution from the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
5. Where can I find rental listings or learn about rental rights in other provinces?
   Houseme - your rental solution in Canada provides rental listings and guides for tenants across the country.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• In Alberta, you can legally record landlord entry if present; always respect privacy boundaries.
• Landlords must give proper written notice before entry (except in emergencies).
• Document incidents and contact the RTDRS if unlawful entry issues persist.

Strong documentation, including written logs and recordings, helps protect your rights and resolve disputes effectively.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Alberta: Residential Tenancies Overview
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — Handle complaints and applications online
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta — Comprehensive rights and responsibilities
• Legal assistance: Calgary Legal Guidance or Edmonton Community Legal Centre
• Houseme - your rental solution in Canada

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, Alberta. Read the legislation
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Official site

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