If your landlord plans to enter your rental unit in British Columbia, you may want to protect your privacy or keep a record of the visit. But is it legal for tenants to record their landlord's entry, either by audio or video? This article explains your rights and obligations under BC law regarding privacy, consent, and documentation during landlord entry.

Landlord Entry in British Columbia: Notice and Your Rights

In BC, your landlord must give proper written notice—at least 24 hours in advance—before entering your rental unit, unless there’s an emergency. Landlord entry is governed by the Residential Tenancy Act^[1]. Notice must state:

• The date and approximate time of entry
• The reason for entry (repairs, inspections, etc.)

You have the right to be present if you wish, and you have a right to reasonable privacy in your home. For a comprehensive list of provincial rights, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Privacy Laws: Can You Record Your Landlord’s Entry?

Under the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) and general privacy law, recording a person (by video or audio) in areas where they expect privacy—like inside your home—raises legal and ethical questions. In BC, you may record audio or video in your rental unit during a landlord's entry as long as you are present and one party (yourself) consents. This is known as "one-party consent." You do not have to get your landlord’s permission if you are participating in the conversation.

However, bathrooms and bedrooms may be considered particularly private. Setting up hidden recording devices in your absence is generally not allowed. If you intend to record, always:

• Be transparent—verbally inform your landlord you are recording
• Only record during the entry and in relevant areas
• Use the recording only for the intended purpose (e.g., documentation of condition or conversations)

When Recording Might Help: Examples and Common Issues

Recording may be useful to document landlord behaviour, ensure repairs are done properly, or resolve disagreements about the condition of your unit. If appropriate, consider these steps:

• Let your landlord know you will be recording the entry for your records
• Record only areas relevant to the maintenance or inspection
• Keep the recording secure and private

For more on resolving rental concerns, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Key Forms and What to Do If There’s a Dispute

If you feel your landlord is entering improperly, not providing proper notice, or you have privacy concerns that remain unresolved, you can submit an application for dispute resolution to the Residential Tenancy Branch of British Columbia. Use this form:

• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): Use this to resolve disputes with your landlord, including unauthorized entry or privacy issues. View and download the RTB-12 Form (PDF).
  Example: If your landlord enters without notice or refuses to respect your privacy, this form allows you to seek remedies through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Documenting events (such as by recording, when legal) can support your complaint or application. For guidance on tenant and landlord responsibilities, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Happens If Privacy Rights Are Violated?

Landlords who repeatedly enter without proper notice or consent may be ordered to compensate tenants or change their behaviour through the Residential Tenancy Branch’s processes. Tenants can use evidence—such as recordings—to support their claims, provided the recordings were made legally.

Helpful Tips for Tenants

• Always keep clear records: note times, dates, and reasons for landlord entry
• Announce recording if you choose to do so—it builds trust and transparency
• Never set up secret cameras or record in private spaces where you are not present
• If you need official advice or to file a dispute, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I record my landlord’s entry in BC without telling them?
   Yes, you can record audio or video of your landlord’s entry into your unit if you are present and a participant, as BC is a one-party consent province. However, it’s good practice to let your landlord know.
2. Is it legal to set up hidden cameras in my apartment for landlord visits?
   No. Recording in private spaces when you are not present, especially with hidden cameras, can breach privacy laws and is not recommended.
3. What can I do if my landlord enters my unit without proper notice?
   You can document the incident and apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch using the RTB-12 form to resolve the dispute.
4. Will my landlord face consequences for repeated privacy violations?
   Yes. The Residential Tenancy Branch can order compensation or require your landlord to stop unauthorized entries if your rights are repeatedly violated.
5. Where can I read more about my general tenant rights in BC?
   Visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia for detailed information on your rights and responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

• In BC, you can record your landlord’s entry if you are present, but avoid secret recordings.
• Always get proper notice for landlord entry and document any issues to protect yourself.
• Seek help from the Residential Tenancy Branch if your privacy rights are not respected.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (BC): Official BC Tenancy Resources & Forms
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free information and support for tenants in BC
• BC Advocacy Centre: Support for residential rights and consumer advocacy
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. [1] See the Residential Tenancy Act of British Columbia for full details on notice, entry, and privacy rights.

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