Landlord Inspection Rules for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador often wonder what their landlord can and cannot do when it comes to inspecting their rental units. While inspections are a normal part of rental housing, both landlords and tenants have specific legal rights and responsibilities. Understanding the rules around inspections can help you protect your privacy and avoid unnecessary conflict.

Who Can Enter Your Rental and Why?

Landlords have the right to enter your rental property, but only in certain situations outlined in Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. The main reasons for entry include:

• Inspecting the condition of the property
• Carrying out repairs or maintenance
• Showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers
• In case of emergencies (e.g., fire, flooding, immediate threats)

Except for emergencies, landlords must always give proper notice before entering.

Notice Requirements for Landlord Inspections

Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit for a routine inspection or non-emergency repairs. The law also says the inspection must take place between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. The notice should include:

• The date entry will occur
• The approximate time of entry
• The reason for entering

If you’re facing repeated or unreasonable inspections, you may want to learn more about Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Is Not Allowed During Inspections?

Even during a lawful inspection, tenants have a right to privacy. Here’s what landlords cannot do:

• Enter without proper 24-hour written notice (unless it’s an emergency)
• Enter outside of allowed hours (9 a.m. – 9 p.m.)
• Harass or intimidate the tenant
• Bring people who are not necessary for the purpose of the visit

Understanding your inspection rights can help prevent unnecessary disputes and protect your home environment.

Initial and Final Inspections

It’s a good idea to be present during both the initial move-in inspection and the final move-out inspection. This helps ensure that any damages are noted and can be discussed openly. For a helpful checklist on move-in inspections, see our Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Documenting the property’s condition at the start and end of your tenancy makes it easier to resolve disputes about damage or deposit returns.

Disputes About Inspections or Entry

If you think your landlord is entering unlawfully or abusing their right to inspect, you can formally address the matter through the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO). They oversee landlord-tenant relationships and can help resolve these types of disputes.

Steps you might take include:

• Communicating your concerns in writing to your landlord
• Collecting evidence such as notices, photos, or witness statements
• Filing an application with the RTO if the issue is not resolved

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTDR): If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice or violates your privacy, you can file this form with the RTO. Find the official form and instructions on the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Office website. Complete the form, attach your evidence, and submit to start a formal dispute resolution process.

This approach helps ensure your concerns are addressed quickly and fairly through the proper legal channels.

Inspections, Repairs, and Your Rights

Routine repairs often require landlord entry for assessment or work. Always ensure you receive proper notice. For more about who is responsible for routine or emergency repairs, read our article on Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. If repairs are urgent, different rules may apply, including shorter notice or immediate entry for true emergencies.

Your Rights Under Local Law

Your rights as a tenant are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador). If you want a summary, Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador provides an accessible overview.

For extra help finding a new place, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to browse listings that suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Landlord Inspections

1. How much notice does my landlord need to give for an inspection in Newfoundland and Labrador? Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice, except for emergencies.
2. What can I do if my landlord enters without notice? Document the event and contact the Residential Tenancies Office for advice or to file a formal complaint.
3. Can my landlord inspect my unit as often as they want? No. Inspections must be reasonable and not used to harass. Excessive or unnecessary inspections can be challenged.
4. Do I have to be present during an inspection? You aren’t required to be present, but you can request to be there. It’s often best to be present during initial and final inspections.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must give proper written notice (24 hours) before inspections.
• You have the right to privacy and can challenge unlawful entry.
• Reach out to the RTO or a tenant resource if you’re unsure of your rights.

Knowing the law helps you maintain a respectful landlord-tenant relationship and keep your housing secure.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) Newfoundland and Labrador – guidance, disputes, and official forms
• Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation – Renting a Home
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. Residential Tenancies Office, Newfoundland and Labrador

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy