Maintenance Entry Rules for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

For tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador, understanding when and how your landlord can enter your rental unit for maintenance is essential. Maintenance entry rules protect your privacy while allowing landlords to maintain safe, habitable homes. If you're facing repairs, routine inspections, or unexpected entry attempts, knowing your rights under provincial law can help you confidently navigate any situation—and avoid conflict or eviction threats.

When Can a Landlord Enter for Maintenance?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador), landlords are entitled to enter a rental unit to carry out repairs, maintenance, or inspections. However, clear rules set out how— and when— they must do so.

• Written Notice: Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering for non-emergency maintenance or inspection.
• Hours: Entry for repairs must take place between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless you agree otherwise.
• Emergency Repairs: No notice is required if entry is necessary to make urgent repairs to protect health, safety, or prevent property damage.
• Tenant Consent: If you agree, entry can occur anytime—with or without written notice.

Landlords cannot abuse the right of entry—entry must be for a legitimate reason, usually stated in the notice.

What Must the Written Notice Include?

The law requires each written notice to:

• State the intended date and time of entry
• Provide a reasonable explanation (e.g., "scheduled plumbing repair in bathroom")
• Be delivered to you at least 24 hours before the planned entry

Notice can be delivered in person, by mail, or left in a visible place, like your mailbox or door.

Reasons for Entry: Maintenance and Inspections

Common reasons a landlord may need to enter include:

• Plumbing, electrical, or appliance repairs
• Annual inspections required by insurance policies
• Addressing pest or safety issues
• Upgrades or renovations (with sufficient notice and legitimate purpose)

Your Rights as a Tenant

As a tenant, you have the right to:

• 24 hours' written notice for non-emergency maintenance entry
• Refuse entry outside the legal hours (unless in emergency)
• Expect respectful, non-disruptive conduct during entry
• Complain and seek remedies if the entry rules are violated

Learn more about your general rights in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Maintaining a Healthy, Safe Home

Proper maintenance helps prevent common issues tenants face—from plumbing leaks to pest problems. Entry rules ensure your privacy is respected, while necessary health and safety repairs are completed promptly.

What to Do If Entry Rules Are Not Followed

If your landlord enters without proper notice, enters repeatedly without reason, or disrupts your quiet enjoyment, you can:

• Document the incident (note date, time, and what occurred)
• Communicate your concerns in writing to the landlord
• Apply to the province’s Residential Tenancies office for a remedy

The official tribunal handling tenancy disputes is the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL. Tenants can file complaints, request compensation, or seek orders to stop unlawful entry.

Provincial Forms for Tenant Complaints

• Application to Director – Form 6: Use this form to request a hearing with the Residential Tenancies office if entry rules are broken or if you seek compensation. For example, if a landlord repeatedly enters without notice, fill out Form 6, describe your issue, and submit it to the office. Official form here.

Dealing with Emergency Repairs

During emergencies—such as burst pipes or fire—landlords can enter immediately to prevent harm or major damage. You do not have the right to refuse entry, but you should be notified as soon as possible about the reason for entry. For more on this, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Steps for Tenants: What To Do If You Need to Refuse or Question Entry

• Ask to see written notice if the entry is not an emergency.
• Request rescheduling if the time is not convenient, within your legal rights.
• Document each entry attempt with date and time.
• If the rules are not respected, write to your landlord stating the law and your preference.
• File a formal complaint if repeated problems continue.

Routine and Essential Repairs

Routine maintenance—such as fixing broken appliances or addressing leaks—helps keep your unit safe. Know when your landlord must act and your responsibilities by reviewing Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Looking for more housing options? Browse apartments for rent in Canada for the latest and best listings nationwide.

FAQ: Maintenance Entry in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. How much notice does my landlord need to give for repairs?
   Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering for non-emergency repairs.
2. What can I do if my landlord enters without permission?
   Document the incident, speak to your landlord, and, if unresolved, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL.
3. Do I have to let my landlord in for emergency repairs?
   Yes. For emergencies that risk health, safety, or property, landlords may enter without advance notice.
4. Can entry take place late at night or early in the morning?
   No, entry must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. unless you agree otherwise.
5. What do I do if maintenance disrupts my quiet enjoyment?
   Inform your landlord, keep a record, and contact the Residential Tenancies office if the issue continues.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice (except in emergencies) before entering for maintenance
• You are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018—seek help if your rights are not respected
• Contact the provincial Residential Tenancies office if entry rules are broken or if you need to file a complaint

Staying informed makes you a more confident tenant!

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL (Official Tribunal): 1-877-829-2608 | Handles all tenancy complaints, applications, and disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: Tenants' Rights and Responsibilities Guide
• Find additional information on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

---

1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador) — official legislation text
2. Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL — official government page
3. Application to Director (Form 6) — official form

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