Landlord Entry Rules During Health Orders in Newfoundland

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Newfoundland and Labrador published: June 20, 2025 Flag of Newfoundland and Labrador

As a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador, understanding your privacy rights and your landlord’s responsibilities is essential, especially during public health emergencies like COVID-19. Whether you’re concerned about unexpected visits or how health orders affect your rental unit, this guide outlines what you need to know to protect your health and legal rights.

Landlord Entry: General Rules in Newfoundland and Labrador

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador), landlords can only enter a tenant’s unit in very specific circumstances. These include:

  • In emergencies, without notice
  • With at least 24 hours’ written notice for repairs, inspections, or showings
  • At the tenant’s invitation or with tenant permission

Landlords must provide written notice that states the reason and time (within reasonable hours, typically between 8am–8pm) for entering your home. If you believe your landlord is not respecting these rules, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more on your legal protections.

How Did COVID-19 and Health Orders Change Entry Rules?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Newfoundland and Labrador’s government issued public health orders that sometimes limited or modified entry to rental units. In general, health and safety came first, and landlords were expected to weigh the importance of entry against the risk of virus transmission.

  • Non-urgent entry was often postponed.
  • Emergency repairs—such as leaks—remained allowed, following safety precautions.
  • Landlords and service people were advised to wear masks, sanitize, and limit time spent inside.
  • Virtual showings or inspections were encouraged to limit in-person contact.
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These public health guidelines may still be used in future health emergencies. Always check the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador COVID-19 Guidelines for updates and practical advice.

What Happens if You’re Sick or Self-Isolating?

If you are isolating due to illness or exposure (including COVID-19), let your landlord know as soon as possible. You can request they postpone non-essential visits or use remote options. If urgent repairs are needed, everyone must follow current public health protocols to avoid spread.

Tenants cannot refuse emergency entry, but you can ask for proper safety measures. Document all communications in writing for your records.

Which Forms and Procedures Apply to Entry During Health Orders?

There is no special provincial government form for COVID-19-specific landlord entry in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, landlords must still use standard written notice for entry except in emergencies. In general:

  • Landlords provide a written note, email, or letter with at least 24 hours’ notice
  • Tenants should reply promptly if there are health-related concerns

If you believe your landlord is entering unlawfully—especially during health emergencies—you can file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office (Service NL), the official tribunal for rental disputes in the province.

Relevant Legislation and Your Rights

Your rights and landlord obligations are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. For a summary of your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Health & Safety: Extra Steps for Tenants

Keeping your living space safe is critical during any public health order. If you’re worried about health and cleanliness—especially when others enter—review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for practical advice.

What if the Entry Rules Are Broken?

If your landlord enters without proper notice (or ignores health protocols during a health order):

  • Record the incident (note dates, times, witnesses, and details)
  • Communicate in writing with your landlord about your concerns
  • If the problem continues, submit a complaint or application for dispute resolution to the Residential Tenancies Office

For more guidance, tenants can find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if they need to relocate or are seeking new accommodations.

FAQs: Landlord Entry During Health Orders

  1. Can my landlord enter for viewings during a health order or COVID-19 lockdown?
    Usually, non-essential visits like showings should be postponed or done virtually to protect health. Landlords must follow public health advice at all times.
  2. What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?
    Emergencies include serious leaks, fire, flooding, or anything needing immediate action to prevent harm to people or property.
  3. Do I have to let in repair workers if I’m isolating?
    For genuine emergencies, entry can’t be refused. However, you can require workers to use masks and follow all health guidelines.
  4. How much notice does my landlord need to give to enter?
    At least 24 hours' written notice is required, except for emergencies or if you’ve agreed to less.
  5. Where do I go if my landlord is not following the rules or puts me at risk?
    You can contact the Residential Tenancies Office for advice or file a formal complaint if informal resolution doesn’t work.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Newfoundland Tenants

  • Your privacy is protected—landlords need valid reasons and proper written notice (except emergencies) to enter
  • During health emergencies, extra safety procedures apply and non-urgent visits can be delayed
  • If entry rules are broken, document the situation and contact the Residential Tenancies Office

Understanding these rules keeps you safe and empowered during uncertain times. Be proactive, communicate clearly, and use government resources if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (NL): official legislation text
  2. Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: COVID-19 Health Orders and Updates
  3. Residential Tenancies Office (Service NL): official website

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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 renters everywhere.

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