Do I have to let my landlord in if they show up without notice?

No. Unless it’s an emergency or you provide consent, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice for non-urgent entry.

What can I do if my landlord keeps entering my rental without permission?

Document each occurrence, communicate your concerns in writing, and if it continues, submit a complaint using Form 12 to Service NL’s Residential Tenancies Section.

Can my landlord enter for repairs when I'm not home?

Yes, if you receive proper written notice stating the date, time, and reason. You do not have to be present, but you must be given notice.

What details must be in the landlord’s written notice?

The notice should include the reason for entry, date, time (between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.), and be delivered at least 24 hours before entry.

Where do I file a dispute about illegal entry?

Submit your complaint to the Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL, using the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12).

Illegal Entry: Tenant Rights and Landlord Penalties in NL

Landlord Compliance & Penalties Newfoundland and Labrador published: June 19, 2025

If you're renting in Newfoundland and Labrador, it's important to know your rights when it comes to your landlord entering your home. The law protects tenants from illegal entry and sets strict rules on when, why, and how a landlord can access your rental. This guide explains what illegal entry means, the steps you can take if your rights are violated, and what penalties landlords may face under provincial law.

When Can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit?

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador)¹, landlords cannot enter your rental unit whenever they choose. Acceptable reasons and conditions for entry include:

To make repairs after giving at least 24 hours’ written notice
To inspect the unit, show it to prospective tenants or buyers (with 24 hours’ written notice)
In an emergency (no notice required)
If you consent at the time of entry

For all non-emergency entries, the landlord must give you written notice stating the reason, date, and time of entry. Entry can only occur between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., and never on holidays unless you agree.

What Counts as Illegal Entry?

Illegal entry happens when a landlord:

Enters your unit without required notice or proper reason
Enters at unreasonable times (outside 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.)
Fails to provide 24 hours’ written notice (unless it's an emergency)
Ignores your right to privacy or harasses you with frequent entries

Tip: Always keep a record of when your landlord enters your unit, especially if there's no notice or you feel your privacy is invaded.

Your Rights and How to Respond

Newfoundland and Labrador tenants have a legal right to privacy and quiet enjoyment of their home. If your landlord enters illegally:

Ask your landlord (in writing) to respect the notice requirements and your privacy
Document dates, times, and details—including any witnesses
File a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL if the issue remains unresolved

How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide offers practical advice on steps to take before escalating the issue.

How to File a Tenant Complaint: Official Forms and Steps

To address illegal entry, you can apply to Service NL’s Residential Tenancies Section for dispute resolution.

Form: Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12)
- Use this form if you need an official hearing about a landlord’s conduct, including illegal entry.
- Download and submit the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12) directly to Service NL’s Residential Tenancies Section.
- Include supporting documents (photos, written notices, logs, etc.).
- Example: "My landlord entered my apartment without notice while I was at work. I sent them a letter asking them to stop, but it happened again. I completed Form 12, attached my entry log, and submitted it to Service NL for a hearing."

Penalties for Landlords: What Happens When the Law is Broken?

Landlords who violate tenant privacy or illegally enter a rental unit may face:

Monetary compensation to the tenant ordered by the adjudicator
Orders to stop illegal entry or harassment
Serious repeat offences could lead to further consequences under the law

All penalties are determined by the Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL, based on the findings from your complaint.

Tenants have the right to peaceful, undisturbed use of their home. Landlords must always respect written notice rules—if not, dispute resolution offers a fair remedy.

Related Tenant Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

For a full overview—including lawful entry, eviction rules, and housing maintenance—see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Looking to move? You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for your next home.

FAQ: Illegal Entry and Privacy for Newfoundland and Labrador Tenants

Do I have to let my landlord in if they show up without notice?
No. Unless it’s an emergency or you provide consent, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice for non-urgent entry.
What can I do if my landlord keeps entering my rental without permission?
Document each occurrence, communicate your concerns in writing, and if it continues, submit a complaint using Form 12 to Service NL’s Residential Tenancies Section.
Can my landlord enter for repairs when I'm not home?
Yes, if you receive proper written notice stating the date, time, and reason. You do not have to be present, but you must be given notice.
What details must be in the landlord’s written notice?
The notice should include the reason for entry, date, time (between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.), and be delivered at least 24 hours before entry.
Where do I file a dispute about illegal entry?
Submit your complaint to the Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL, using the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12).

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before non-emergency entry.
Illegal entry is a violation of your right to privacy under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.
Tenants can file a complaint and may receive compensation if their rights are violated.

Staying informed helps you protect your privacy and resolve landlord disputes legally.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL: File complaints, access forms, dispute resolution, and legal advice for tenants.
Tenant advocacy: Call 1-877-829-2608 or email landlords.tenants@gov.nl.ca for guidance.
Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 for full legal details.

Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, SNL 2018, c R-14.1. Read the full legislation (NL government)
Service NL, Residential Tenancies Section, official forms and complaint process: https://www.gov.nl.ca/dgsnl/landlord/