24-Hour Landlord Entry Notice Rules for Tenants in New Brunswick

Knowing your rights as a tenant in New Brunswick is crucial—especially when it comes to your landlord’s ability to enter your rental home. The Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick sets specific rules for when and how your landlord can enter your unit, including the requirement to provide a 24-hour written notice except in emergencies. Understanding these rules helps you protect your privacy and respond confidently if a notice arrives.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental in New Brunswick?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick, your landlord has the right to enter your rental property for specific reasons, but strict conditions apply:

• To carry out repairs or inspect the state of repair
• To show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers
• For agreed-upon inspections (e.g., seasonal checks)
• To respond to an emergency (e.g., fire, flood, urgent repairs)

Except in emergencies, entry requires proper written notice. This ensures tenants have enough warning and can prepare for the visit.

The 24-Hour Notice Requirement Explained

Landlords must give tenants at least 24 hours’ advance written notice before entering the property. The notice must:

• State the reason for entry (e.g., repairs, showings)
• Specify the date and the approximate time of entry (must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.)

A landlord cannot enter your rental unit without this notice—unless there is an emergency situation requiring immediate access.

What Counts as Written Notice?

Written notice can be provided in person, by email, or left at your door, as long as it clearly communicates the reason, date, and time for entry. Notices should always be kept as documentation in case there are disputes later.

Exceptions: Emergency Entry and Tenant Consent

There are situations where the 24-hour rule does not apply:

• Emergency: Issues like fires, flooding, or sudden repair needs allow immediate entry to protect you or the property.
• Tenant’s Consent: If you agree to let your landlord in sooner, written notice is not required.

Dealing with Improper or Repeated Entry

If you believe your landlord has entered your home without proper notice, you can:

• Document the dates and details of each entry
• Communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing
• Contact the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal for support or to make a formal complaint

Both tenants and landlords must respect privacy and follow proper procedures.

Who Handles Tenant Complaints in New Brunswick?

All residential tenancy issues in the province are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick. This is your go-to authority for disputes, complaints, and guidance.

Relevant Forms: How to Respond to Entry Notices

If you need to make a complaint or seek clarification about your landlord's notice of entry, use:

• Form 18: Application for Dispute Resolution – Used to file a complaint regarding privacy violations or improper entry.
  Official Form 18 (PDF)
  Example: If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice, complete Form 18 to initiate a dispute with the Tribunal.

Always keep a copy of your completed form and any communication with your landlord for your records.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant

Tenants in New Brunswick have both rights and responsibilities. It’s important to:

• Allow reasonable entry with proper notice
• Maintain the state of your rental unit
• Understand your privacy rights and when you can refuse entry (if proper procedure isn’t followed)

For a full overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Understanding entry rules is part of a smooth renting experience—along with other issues like Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and privacy concerns. If you’re seeking a new home, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for your next move.

FAQ: Landlord Entry and Tenant Privacy in New Brunswick

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment without giving me 24 hours’ notice?
   Landlords can only enter without notice in emergency situations or if you explicitly agree to an earlier visit. Otherwise, they must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice.
2. What should I do if my landlord violates the notice rules?
   Document all incidents and communication, and consider submitting a complaint to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using Form 18.
3. When can a landlord show my unit to new tenants or buyers?
   Showings must also follow the 24-hour written notice rule, and must take place between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree to a different arrangement.
4. How do I know if a notice is valid?
   A valid notice clearly states the reason, date, and timeframe for entry, must be written, and delivered at least 24 hours in advance.
5. Where can I get help if I have concerns about my landlord’s entry?
   The Residential Tenancies Tribunal provides help, information, and complaint procedures for tenants facing privacy issues.

Key Takeaways for New Brunswick Tenants

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice (except for emergencies or with your consent)
• You have the right to privacy and can file a complaint if entry rules are not followed
• Use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for disputes and support

Being aware of your entry and privacy rights helps ensure a respectful and secure tenancy experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Province of New Brunswick – Landlord and Tenant Information
• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick (for complaints, forms, and answers)
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB)

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick: official legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick: official tribunal site
3. Official Form 18, Application for Dispute Resolution: government resource

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