Privacy & Landlord Entry FAQ for Newfoundland and Labrador

Understanding your rights when it comes to landlord entry and tenant privacy is essential for anyone renting in Newfoundland and Labrador. The province’s Residential Tenancies Act sets out clear rules for when and how a landlord may enter your rental unit. This article covers the most frequent questions about privacy and landlord entry, with guidance tailored to tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador.

When Can a Landlord Enter My Rental Unit?

Landlords cannot enter your home whenever they wish. Entry is regulated by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. In most cases:

• The landlord must give at least 24 hours' written notice before entering.
• Entry can only happen between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
• Notice must state the date, time, and reason for entry.

Landlords may enter without notice only in emergencies or if you consent at the time.

What Is Considered an Emergency?

Emergencies are urgent situations such as fires, floods, burst pipes, or situations that immediately threaten health or safety. If, for example, a neighbour reports water leaking into their unit, your landlord may enter without advance notice to stop damage or protect residents' safety. For more about urgent rental concerns, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

My Landlord Showed Up Without Notice. What Can I Do?

If your landlord arrives without providing proper notice (and there's no emergency or agreed appointment), they may be breaking the law. You have the right to:

• Politely remind your landlord of the 24-hour notice rule.
• Keep a written record of any unauthorized entries – include dates, times, and details.
• File a written complaint using the proper form if repeated unauthorized entry occurs.

Official Forms: Reporting Privacy Violations

• Application to Director (Form 6)
  When to use: If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice or violates your right to reasonable privacy, you can complete this form to request a hearing with the Residential Tenancies Section.
  How to use: Gather any evidence (letters, emails, notes on entries), fill out the Application to Director (Form 6), and submit it to a Service NL Residential Tenancies office.
  Example: If your landlord enters repeatedly with no notice, fill out Form 6, attach your evidence, and submit it to request an order that your landlord respect your privacy.

What About Entry for Repairs or Inspections?

Landlords can enter your unit for repairs, maintenance, or inspections only with proper notice. Unless it’s an urgent repair, landlords must always provide:

• At least 24 hours’ written notice
• Entry during reasonable hours (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.)

For more on repairs and responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Can a Landlord Show My Unit to Prospective Tenants or Purchasers?

Yes, but they still need to provide at least 24 hours’ written notice and must show the unit at reasonable hours. If your lease is ending or your landlord is selling the unit, these visits should not be excessive or disruptive.

What Are My Privacy Rights as a Tenant?

The law gives you the right to "reasonable privacy" at home. This means you can:

• Say no to entry outside permitted hours or without notice (except emergencies)
• Keep personal belongings and communications private
• Report repeated privacy violations to the Residential Tenancies Section

For a broader overview of legal protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Tenant Rights and Resolving Issues

If privacy concerns, unauthorized entry, or disputes arise, tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador can apply to the Service NL Residential Tenancies Section, which handles rental disputes and enforces the Act.^[2]

Looking for a new home where you can enjoy your privacy? Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

1. Do I have to let my landlord in for viewings or repairs?
   Yes, but only if they have provided at least 24 hours’ written notice and the visit happens during permitted hours, unless it’s an emergency.
2. Can I refuse entry if I’m not available?
   You cannot unreasonably refuse entry if proper notice is given, but you can request a different time in writing. Your landlord must try to accommodate if possible.
3. What if I believe my privacy is being violated repeatedly?
   Document every incident and file an Application to Director (Form 6) for a hearing. The Residential Tenancies Section can order the landlord to stop violating your privacy.
4. Is my landlord allowed to install surveillance cameras?
   Landlords can only use cameras in common areas, never inside your unit. Any surveillance must follow privacy and personal information laws.
5. How can I learn more about my rights?
   Start with Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for plain-language guidance, and contact the Residential Tenancies Section for legal information.

1. How do I make a complaint about unauthorized entry?
   Complete the Application to Director (Form 6), attach your written evidence (dates, times, correspondence), and file it at your local Residential Tenancies Section office.
2. How do I request repairs while protecting my privacy?
   Send a written repair request and specify your preferred dates/times for any necessary entry. Keep a copy as the landlord must still provide 24 hours' notice.
3. How can I request a Residential Tenancies hearing?
   Submit a completed Form 6 (Application to Director) with your evidence documenting privacy concerns. The tribunal will contact you for a hearing date.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must provide 24-hour written notice for most entries, except in emergencies.
• Your right to privacy is protected by provincial law. Keep records of any concerns.
• The Residential Tenancies Section can help resolve privacy disputes – use Form 6 if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Service NL Residential Tenancies Section
  Information, dispute forms, office locations, and direct support for tenants and landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) — full provincial tenant and landlord legislation
• Access more legal information at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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1. [1] Read the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) - Newfoundland and Labrador.
2. [2] Contact or access forms via Service NL Residential Tenancies Section.

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