Living in a rental home means your landlord sometimes needs to inspect the property. If you're a tenant in Alberta, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding landlord inspections can protect your privacy and help avoid disputes. This guide outlines what your landlord can and cannot do during an inspection, key notice rules, and what steps you can take if you feel your rights are at risk—all explained in plain language using current Alberta law.

When Can a Landlord Enter and Inspect Your Rental?

In Alberta, landlords have the legal right to enter your rental unit—but strict rules exist. Inspections may be necessary for:

• Carrying out repairs or maintenance
• Checking the condition of the unit (routine inspections)
• Showing the property to prospective tenants or buyers (after you give notice or if your lease is ending)
• Emergency situations (no notice required)

Alberta’s rules strike a balance between a tenant’s right to privacy and a landlord’s need to manage their property responsibly.

Notice Requirements: How Much Time Must Your Landlord Give You?

For most circumstances—like inspections, repairs, or showings—Alberta landlords are required by the Residential Tenancies Act to give tenants at least 24 hours written notice before entering the rental unit.¹

• The notice must state the date, time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.), and reason for entry.
• Landlords cannot inspect on holidays or your day of religious worship, except by special permission.
• Notice is not required for emergencies or if you consent to the entry at the time.

If you’d like practical advice on preparing for inspections, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Types of Inspections in Alberta Rentals

• Initial Move-In Inspection: Both tenant and landlord should complete an inspection report together. This sets a baseline for property condition. Alberta law requires an inspection report at move-in and move-out. Using the Inspection Report Form is strongly recommended (Form: Residential Tenancy Inspection Report).
• Routine Inspections: These are usually scheduled semi-annually or annually to check for maintenance needs or damage. Written notice is mandatory.
• Special Inspections: If repairs, pest control, or safety checks are needed, proper notice is still required unless there’s an emergency.
• Final Move-Out Inspection: At the end of your lease, a final walk-through is required with both parties present. For tips, see The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

Every inspection type protects both tenant and landlord by keeping clear records and preventing future disagreements.

Rules Landlords Must Follow During Inspections

• Inspections must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Landlords must provide entry notice at least 24 hours in advance, in writing.
• A landlord can only enter for valid reasons (as outlined above).
• They cannot enter on holidays or religious worship days unless allowed by you.
• Entry without notice is permitted only in emergencies or if you agree on the spot.
• Landlords must enter respectfully—no search for personal belongings.

What If Your Landlord Doesn’t Follow the Rules?

If your landlord enters without proper notice or repeatedly violates your privacy, document the incidents. You can:

• Politely remind your landlord in writing of the required notice and your rights.
• File a complaint or application through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
• Contact Service Alberta’s Consumer Contact Centre or a legal clinic for further guidance.

It may also be helpful to review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for a broad overview of your rights and protections as a tenant.

Required Inspection Forms and How to Use Them

• Residential Tenancy Inspection Report:
  Both move-in and move-out inspections require this form. Complete it together with your landlord. Each party should keep a signed copy.
  Download the official Alberta Inspection Report Form (PDF)

How to use the report: At both move-in and move-out, walk through the property with your landlord, note any issues or damages, and sign the report. This protects your security deposit and prevents conflicts.

Quick Summary

Knowing your inspection rights can prevent stress, disputes, and unexpected entries. Remember: your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice for inspections, and both parties are required to complete official move-in and move-out reports.

For more in-depth details about Alberta’s tenant rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

If you're seeking your next place to rent, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord inspect my Alberta rental anytime?
   No, landlords in Alberta must give 24 hours written notice and cannot inspect at any time. Entry hours are between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. except in emergencies.
2. What if I’m not home when the landlord wants to inspect?
   Your landlord can still enter after providing proper notice, but only for valid legal reasons. Consider requesting a mutual time if privacy is a concern.
3. Do I have to complete inspection forms during move-in and move-out?
   Yes, it’s the law. Both the landlord and tenant must complete and sign the Alberta Inspection Report Form at both move-in and move-out. This protects your rights and deposit.
4. What can I do if my landlord enters illegally or without notice?
   Document the incident right away and contact the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) to file a complaint or resolution request.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Government: Residential Tenancies Overview
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Handle complaints, disputes, and rental issues.
• Service Alberta Consumer Contact Centre: 1-877-427-4088
• Local legal clinics and tenant advocacy organizations

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. Government of Alberta – Residential Tenancies
3. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
4. Alberta Residential Tenancy Inspection Report Form

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