Can my landlord enter my apartment without notice in BC?

Landlords in British Columbia only may enter without notice during emergencies or if the rental is believed abandoned. Otherwise, 24 hours' written notice is required.

What notice must my landlord give before entering in BC?

Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice with the date, time (within a 4-hour window), and reason for entry.

What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?

Emergencies include situations like fire, flooding, gas leaks, or anything posing an immediate risk to property or personal safety.

What should I do if my landlord violates my privacy rights?

Document all incidents and file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the BC Residential Tenancy Branch.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental in British Columbia?

Privacy & Entry by Landlord British Columbia published June 14, 2025

Feeling uncertain about your landlord’s ability to enter your home can be stressful. For tenants in British Columbia, it’s important to know your legal rights and the rules landlords must follow to access your rental unit. This guide provides clear answers on when a landlord can (and cannot) enter, how much notice you must receive, and what to do if your privacy rights are ignored. Our information is current as of 2024 and based on British Columbia's Residential Tenancy Act.

Landlord Entry Rights and Legal Notice Rules

In British Columbia, your landlord cannot enter your rental unit whenever they wish. The law sets out strict rules designed to protect your privacy, while allowing landlords to maintain or inspect their property when necessary.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

With at least 24 hours written notice: For most situations, landlords must give tenants at least 24 hours written notice before entering. This is required for reasons such as repairs, inspections, or showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers.
In emergencies: A landlord may enter without notice only in cases of emergency, such as fire, flooding, or urgent repairs needed to prevent serious property damage or personal harm.
With tenant consent: If you agree (preferably in writing), your landlord can enter at an alternative time. For example, if you want to schedule a specific repair visit sooner.
If the landlord believes the unit has been abandoned.

For all non-emergency entry, the notice must state:

The date and time of entry (within a four-hour window, between 8am and 9pm unless otherwise agreed)
The reason for entry

Times When Landlord Entry is Usually Not Allowed

Entering for general "checks" or to “see how you’re living,” unless a proper notice is given for an inspection
Entering without your consent in the middle of the night (except in emergencies)
Entering repeatedly for non-urgent reasons in a way that could be considered harassment

You have the right to ask your landlord to reschedule or to be present, if reasonable. However, you cannot unreasonably deny entry if the landlord follows notice rules under the Residential Tenancy Act.

Your Privacy Protections and What to Do If They're Violated

British Columbia law is clear: Tenants have strong privacy rights. If a landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice or reason, this could be considered a breach of your legal rights, and you have options to address it.

Tip: Record any improper entry (date, time, and details) and let your landlord know in writing that their actions are not permitted. Keep copies for your records.

If problems persist, you may apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), the provincial board that handles tenant-landlord issues.

Relevant Official Forms for Tenants

Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB Form): If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice or violates your privacy, complete the RTB Form - Application for Dispute Resolution. Practical example: If your landlord comes by three times in one week without notice, you can file this form to seek an order for them to stop, or to claim compensation if you’ve suffered a loss.

Common Scenarios and Tenant Rights

Not sure whether your landlord is following the rules? Here are a few scenarios:

Your landlord leaves a note to show the apartment to a prospective tenant tomorrow – this is okay if the notice is at least 24 hours in advance and within legal hours.
Your landlord enters for an inspection but never gave any notice – this is not allowed, except in emergencies.
They want to enter every week for minor matters – frequent, non-urgent entry could be harassment.

For more details on your rights and responsibilities after your rental agreement begins, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

What If Repairs Are Needed?

If you have requested repairs, your landlord still needs to provide 24 hours' notice before entering, unless there is an emergency. For routine repairs and responsibilities, check Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

For a full overview of renting in this province, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

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FAQs About Landlord Entry in BC

Can my landlord enter my apartment without notice?
Only in emergencies or if you have abandoned the unit. Otherwise, at least 24 hours written notice is required.
What qualifies as an emergency entry?
Examples include fire, burst pipes, or situations threatening property or personal safety.
Can I refuse entry if I feel uncomfortable?
You cannot unreasonably deny entry if the landlord follows the notice laws, but you can ask for rescheduling or raise concerns with the Residential Tenancy Branch if you feel harassed.
Does the landlord have to enter only during certain hours?
Yes, entry must take place between 8am and 9pm, unless you agree otherwise.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice for non-emergency entry.
Entry without notice is only allowed in emergencies or if you’ve abandoned the unit.
Maintain written records and contact the RTB if your rights are violated.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): File a complaint, access forms, or get dispute resolution services.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free information and legal support for tenants in BC.
Residential Tenancy Act: Full BC rental legislation.