Top 50 Questions: Privacy & Landlord Entry – British Columbia

Privacy & Entry by Landlord British Columbia published June 26, 2025 Flag of British Columbia
When can my landlord legally enter my rental unit in BC?
Landlords can enter for repairs, emergencies, safety checks, agreed inspections, or showings, but must usually give 24 hours written notice.
What notice is required for a landlord to enter my unit?
Written notice with the reason, date, and time, given at least 24 hours before entry, between 8 am–9 pm unless it's an emergency.
Can my landlord enter without my permission in BC?
Yes, but only for emergencies, or with proper written notice for specific legal reasons.
What counts as an emergency entry by my landlord?
Emergencies include fire, floods, gas leaks, or anything needing immediate attention to prevent damage or danger.
How much notice must be given for entry for showings to new tenants or buyers?
At least 24 hours written notice is required before entry for showings.
Can my landlord enter if I’m not home?
Yes, as long as they gave the correct 24-hour written notice or it's an emergency.
Does my landlord need my consent to enter for repairs?
Written notice is required, but your consent isn’t if notice is given and entry is for valid reasons.
Can a landlord enter for inspections?
Yes, with proper written notice (at least 24 hours) stating the purpose and time.
What times of day is entry allowed?
Between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., unless you agree to another time or it’s an emergency.
Can my landlord enter for routine maintenance?
Yes, with 24 hours written notice stating the time and purpose.
Does the landlord have to give 24 hours notice for every entry?
Yes, unless you agree otherwise or it's an emergency/specific exception under the law.
Can I refuse entry to my landlord?
You can refuse if proper notice isn’t given or the reason is not allowed by law, but not for valid, properly noticed entries.
What if my landlord enters without notice or permission?
This could violate your rights; you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
How do I file a complaint about privacy violations?
You may use the Residential Tenancy Branch's dispute resolution process. Start with the [Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12)](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/housing-and-tenancy/residential-tenancies/forms/rtb-12.pdf) official site.
Do landlords have the right to enter with police?
Only in emergencies, or if there’s a legal order; normal entry rules still apply.
Can a landlord enter my unit for showings if I object?
If proper notice is given and the entry is for legitimate showings to buyers/renters, you cannot unreasonably refuse.
What info must be on the entry notice?
The purpose, the date, and the time (or time range) of entry, and landlord’s signature.
How can notice be delivered to me?
Delivered in person, by posting on the door, or any method outlined in your tenancy agreement or [RTB guidelines](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/apply/dispute-resolution/delivering-documents) official site.
Can the landlord enter on weekends?
Yes, if between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., and notice is given.
Can the landlord inspect for ‘cleanliness’ without notice?
No, inspections require proper notice and must have a valid legal reason.
If I’m away, can my landlord show the unit?
Yes, if they give 24 hours’ written notice and enter between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Can the landlord take photos or videos inside my unit?
Only with your consent, unless required for documentation during a move-in/move-out inspection.
What do I do if my landlord keeps showing up unannounced?
Keep a record; you can file for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Can my landlord give verbal notice for entry?
No, notice must be written unless otherwise agreed by you in the tenancy agreement.
Can the landlord enter just to check on me or ‘visit’?
No, a social visit is not a valid reason for entry under the law.
Does my lease allow my landlord to enter without notice?
No, tenancy agreements cannot override the minimum rights granted under the BC Residential Tenancy Act.
Are notice requirements different for shared accommodation?
If you share the home with your landlord, the rules may differ. For rentals with separate units, full notice rules apply.
Can landlords do ‘random checks’?
No, entry without proper notice or legal reason is not allowed.
Can a landlord bring others inside during an entry?
Yes, when reasonable (e.g., contractors, buyers, or agents), but only for the stated reason in the notice.
Can I ask for a different time for landlord entry?
Yes, you can request a different time, but the landlord must agree.
What if landlord’s entry damages my property?
Document the damage and seek compensation or file a dispute with the RTB.
Can my landlord install cameras inside the unit?
No, interior surveillance in a private rental unit is not allowed without express tenant consent.
Can landlords keep a set of keys to my unit?
Yes, but they must follow entry laws and cannot enter without proper reason/notice.
Can I change the locks?
Not without landlord’s consent, unless the RTB orders it; the landlord must have access for legal entries.
Can my landlord enter if I haven't paid rent?
Entry rules apply regardless of payment issues. Only valid entry reasons and proper notice permit entry.
What is the Residential Tenancy Branch?
It's BC’s official body for tenancy disputes and information: Residential Tenancy Branch.
Which law protects my privacy as a tenant in BC?
The BC Residential Tenancy Act governs tenant privacy and landlord entry.
Which form do I use to start a privacy-related tenancy dispute?
Use the [RTB-12 Application for Dispute Resolution](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/housing-and-tenancy/residential-tenancies/forms/rtb-12.pdf) official site.
How do I serve documents to my landlord for a dispute?
Follow [official RTB delivery methods](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/apply/dispute-resolution/delivering-documents) here.
Who decides disputes over privacy or entry?
The Residential Tenancy Branch adjudicates these disputes in BC.
What can I do if I feel unsafe after repeated unlawful entry?
You may request an emergency dispute resolution hearing with the RTB.
Are renters’ guests protected from landlord entry?
Yes, privacy laws protect everyone inside the rental unit.
Can a landlord search my belongings?
No, landlords cannot search personal property or storage areas unless agreed or in an emergency.
Does my landlord need to knock before entering?
Good practice is to knock, but legal entry only requires proper 24-hour notice or emergencies.
What do I do if there’s an illegal entry?
Gather evidence, then file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the RTB.
Are entry rules different for roommates?
Not between tenants/roommates, but landlords must follow normal entry laws.
What rights do I have during a move-out inspection?
You have the right to be present and receive proper notice for the inspection.
What if I disagree with a landlord's entry reason?
Contact the RTB for advice or to initiate dispute resolution if you believe entry is not lawful.
Can I withdraw consent for landlord entry?
Yes, for any entry not legally required, but entry for repairs, inspections, or emergencies may still proceed with notice.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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