With smart locks becoming more common in Alberta apartments and rental homes, tenants may wonder about their privacy, who controls access, and what rights they have if their landlord wants to install, change, or monitor a smart lock system. Understanding these rules ensures that your home remains your private sanctuary.

Understanding Smart Locks in Alberta Rentals

Smart locks are electronic locking devices that can be controlled by key cards, codes, smartphones, or other wireless means. While they offer convenience and security, they also raise new questions about privacy, access, and legal responsibilities for both tenants and landlords.

Are Smart Locks Allowed in Alberta Rental Properties?

Yes. Landlords can install smart locks on rental units. However, according to Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act (see the full Act), both landlords and tenants have clear rights and responsibilities surrounding locks and entry.

• Landlords must provide security for rental premises, which includes functional locks.
• Locks—smart or traditional—cannot be changed or added without the other party’s consent, except in emergencies.
• Both landlord and tenant must have access to the unit, unless otherwise agreed in writing.¹

Because smart locks may generate logs or digital records of entries and exits, privacy considerations also come into play. You have a right to peaceful enjoyment of your rental home and protection against unreasonable intrusion.

When Can a Landlord Access a Tenant’s Unit?

Landlords may only enter a rental unit under certain circumstances and with proper notice. Alberta law requires:

• At least 24 hours’ written notice before entry for repairs, inspections, or to show the property to new tenants or buyers.
• Entry without notice is only allowed in an emergency or if you agree to waive the notice period.
• The entry must take place between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

This applies whether or not the property uses a smart lock. If a landlord installs a smart lock, you should still receive keys, codes, or digital access, and the landlord cannot enter your home freely just because they can unlock the door remotely.

Who Controls Access and Codes?

In most cases, both landlord and tenant must have access to the property. As a tenant, you have the right to lock your rental unit, and your landlord can retain a key or means of entry—but only for lawful reasons.

• If a smart lock is installed, both parties should have access to all necessary codes or apps, unless you agree otherwise in writing.
• Landlords should not change codes, PINs, or remote access without your consent or proper notice, unless it's an emergency.
• If the landlord changes your access or locks you out of your home, this is considered an illegal eviction in Alberta.²

Smart locks should never be used by landlords to monitor your comings and goings without your knowledge. Your privacy is protected by law. For more about obligations of both parties, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Can a Tenant Install or Change Locks?

A tenant can only add or change smart or traditional locks with the landlord’s written consent, unless:

• It's an emergency (such as after a break-in), but the landlord must be given a new key or code immediately after.
• The lease agreement specifically allows the tenant to make such changes.

If you’d like to install a smart lock yourself, always get written permission from your landlord to avoid disputes or possible lease violations.

Entry Rules and Your Privacy

The Residential Tenancies Act protects your right to quiet enjoyment and legal entry procedures. If you have concerns about privacy or smart lock data, request clarification about how entry logs or codes will be handled.

Key Forms and Official Procedures

While there is no special smart lock-specific government form in Alberta, if you wish to dispute your landlord’s conduct relating to locks, privacy, or access, you can apply to the RTDRS or court using the following process:

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) Application (Form 1): Use this form to request a hearing about landlord-tenant disputes in Alberta, including lockouts or unauthorized entry. Download the RTDRS Application Form.

Example: If your landlord changed the smart lock code and refused to provide you with updated access, submit a Form 1 application to the RTDRS, explaining the situation and requesting an order for access and/or compensation.

Step-by-Step: Taking Action If You Are Locked Out

If your landlord changes a smart lock and you are locked out without due process, you have a clear path to regain access:

• Document all communications with your landlord about the lock change.
• Contact RTDRS or Service Alberta for urgent help if you’re denied access.
• Submit the Application (Form 1) as above.
• Bring supporting evidence to your hearing (texts, emails, lease).

For a full overview of responsibilities after your agreement begins, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Related Tenant Rights and Key Resources

For a bigger picture of tenant and landlord responsibilities across Alberta, visit our detailed Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta page.

Looking for a rental with security and privacy? Explore rental homes in your area with confidence on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Locks in Alberta Rentals

1. Can my landlord install a smart lock without telling me?
   No. Your landlord must provide notice and coordinate installation. They cannot change access without your knowledge or consent.
2. Do I have to give my landlord access to my smart lock code or app?
   Yes, unless your lease says otherwise. Both tenant and landlord should have the ability to access the property lawfully, but your landlord cannot enter without giving proper notice.
3. What should I do if I’m locked out because of a smart lock change?
   Document the incident, contact your landlord, and if unresolved, file a complaint with Alberta’s RTDRS using Application Form 1.
4. Can my landlord remotely monitor my entry and exit through a smart lock?
   They should not do so without your informed consent. Tenants have a right to privacy against unreasonable surveillance.
5. Who do I contact for help with lock or entry disputes in Alberta?
   Reach out to the RTDRS (official resource) for lock, entry, and access issues.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Service Alberta – Residential Tenancies: Key info, legislation, and guidance.
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): For tenant-landlord dispute resolution, including lock/access cases.
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta: Tenant guides and legal support.
• Local Legal Aid Alberta or tenant support groups for legal advice if required.

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1. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act, official legislation
2. Service Alberta Residential Tenancies, official website

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