Does a landlord always have to give 24 hours' notice in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Yes, landlords usually must provide 24 hours' written notice before entering, unless there is an emergency or the unit is abandoned.

Can a tenant refuse entry if the time is inconvenient?

Tenants should communicate with their landlord to reschedule if necessary, but can't unreasonably refuse if proper notice and reason are given.

What can I do if my landlord enters without notice?

Document what happened and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section. You can also complete an Application to the Director (RT201) form.

Is email notice valid for entry?

Only if you have expressly agreed to receive notices by email from your landlord.

Who handles rental disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador?

The Residential Tenancies Section at Service NL oversees rental disputes and enforces entry notice rules.

24-Hour Entry Notice Rules for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Newfoundland and Labrador published: June 14, 2025

If you’re renting in Newfoundland and Labrador, understanding your rights when a landlord wants to enter your home is essential. Knowing the rules for 24-hour notice of entry can help you protect your privacy and respond with confidence if you ever receive such a notice. These rules are set out under provincial tenancy laws and are designed to balance your right to peaceful enjoyment with your landlord’s need to access the property for valid reasons.

Who Oversees Tenant Rights and Entry in Newfoundland and Labrador?

The Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL handles all matters involving residential tenancy rights, disputes, and complaints in the province. If there's ever a concern about notice of entry or privacy violations, this is the body you'll contact.

Understanding When and Why a Landlord Can Enter

Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador must respect tenants' right to privacy. Entry is permitted, but only under specific conditions set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (SNL 2018, c. R-14.1)^[1]. In most non-emergency cases, a landlord must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your rental unit.

Repairs, inspections, or showing the property: 24 hours’ written notice is required.
Emergencies: No notice required—such as in the case of a fire or serious water leak.
Abandonment: If it’s believed the unit has been abandoned, entry may occur without notice.

Written notice of entry must state the reason for entry and the intended date and time (within normal hours: typically 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.).

What Counts as "Written Notice"?

Your landlord can deliver a notice of entry in person or by placing it in your mailbox or under your door. Electronic delivery (like email) is only valid if you have agreed to accept notices this way.

Your Rights: Refusing or Rescheduling Entry

Generally, you can’t refuse entry if your landlord has given proper notice and the reason complies with the law. However, you can discuss rescheduling if the proposed time is seriously inconvenient. Open and respectful communication is key.

If you believe a landlord is entering illegally or not giving sufficient notice, document all instances and contact the Residential Tenancies Section for support.

Common Notice of Entry Scenarios

Routine maintenance: Landlord provides written notice and enters to perform repairs or maintenance.
Property showings: Your home may be shown to prospective buyers or tenants, but only after notice.
Health and safety inspections: Required by law, but still require advance written notice except in emergencies.

For rules about property maintenance and your responsibilities as a tenant, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Official Notice of Entry Form

There is no mandated province-wide “Notice of Entry” form in Newfoundland and Labrador, but landlords are strongly advised to provide notice in writing. A basic notice should include:

The date and time of entry
The reason for entry (e.g., repair, inspection, showing unit)
The date the notice is delivered

For more guidance or to download sample forms, visit the official forms page of the Residential Tenancies Section.

What to Do If Your Landlord Isn't Following the Rules

If a landlord enters without providing legal notice, you have the right to file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section. You may use the "Application to the Director" form (RT201):

Form Name: Application to the Director
Form Number: RT201
When to Use: If a landlord violates entry rules, use this form to request a formal hearing or enforcement of your rights.
Download/Submit: Official RT201 Form

Sample scenario: Your landlord enters your unit without any prior notice for non-emergency reasons. You document the incident and file the RT201 form to start a dispute resolution process.

Legal Framework and Where to Learn More

The rules described here are set by the Residential Tenancies Act (SNL 2018, c. R-14.1), which you can review in full for all tenant and landlord rights. For an overview of related tenant rights in the province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

If you’re just moving in or need tips on your rights after signing your lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for more information.

For those seeking a new rental or wanting to browse available homes, check out Canada's best rental listings platform for apartments and homes across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a landlord always have to give 24 hours' notice in Newfoundland and Labrador?
In most cases, yes. The landlord must provide 24 hours' written notice for non-emergency entry, except in emergencies or if the property is abandoned.
Can a tenant refuse entry if they are not available at the proposed time?
If the time is very inconvenient, the tenant should try to negotiate a mutually acceptable time with the landlord, but entry can't be refused without good reason if proper notice is given.
What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?
Document the incident and contact the Residential Tenancies Section. You can also file an "Application to the Director" (RT201) to resolve the issue.
Is email an acceptable way for landlords to give notice?
Only if the tenant has previously agreed in writing to accept notices by email. Otherwise, notice must be in person or on paper.
Who regulates tenancy disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador?
The Residential Tenancies Section at Service NL oversees rental disputes, entry rules, and related matters.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Landlords must give written 24-hour notice before entering, except in emergencies.
Written notice should state the purpose, date, and time.
Tenants can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section if entry rules are violated.

Understanding these entry rules protects your privacy and ensures a respectful tenancy in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Section (Service NL) – Inquiries, complaints, and official forms (1-709-729-2608).
Public Legal Information Association of NL – Free legal information and tenant resources.
See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for your rights and responsibilities.

See: Residential Tenancies Act (SNL 2018, c. R-14.1) — Sections 27, 28: Entry by Landlord provisions