Does my landlord always have to give 24 hours' notice before maintenance?

Yes, except in emergencies, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice to enter for repairs or maintenance.

What counts as an emergency entry?

Emergencies include situations like fire, flooding, or immediate threats to safety, allowing entry without notice.

Can I refuse entry for repairs?

You cannot refuse reasonable entry for necessary repairs if the landlord provides proper notice. Discuss any concerns with your landlord.

What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?

Keep a record of the incident, talk to your landlord, and contact the Residential Tenancies Division if the problem continues.

Privacy Rights for Tenants During Maintenance in Newfoundland and Labrador

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Newfoundland and Labrador published: June 14, 2025

Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have important privacy rights, especially when their landlord or contractors need access to rental units for maintenance or repairs. Understanding these rights can help you feel more secure and confident in your home while ensuring that rental responsibilities are met by everyone involved.

Your Right to Privacy in Your Rental Home

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 of Newfoundland and Labrador protects tenants by limiting when and how a landlord can enter your home. Landlords may need access for repairs, inspections, or emergencies, but there are rules in place to protect your privacy at all times.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit for Maintenance?

Generally, your landlord can only enter your unit:

For necessary repairs or maintenance
For inspections related to the condition of the property
In emergency situations (for example, a burst pipe or fire)
To show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers

In most cases, your landlord must give you written notice at least 24 hours in advance. Entry is allowed only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree to a different time. The notice must state the reason, date, and time of entry.^[1]

Notice Requirements and Exceptions

Written Notice: Must be provided at least 24 hours before entry. (A text message or email that you agree to may also be sufficient.)
Emergencies: If there is an emergency, such as flooding or urgent safety repairs, your landlord has the right to enter without notice to prevent damage or harm.
Agreed Access: You and your landlord can agree to permit entry without the standard notice. Always get any agreement in writing for clarity.

If you ever feel your privacy is being repeatedly violated, record dates and details of entries, and reach out to the Residential Tenancies Division for guidance.

What Happens During Maintenance?

During maintenance, landlords or professional contractors should only access the areas necessary to complete their work. Personal items should be respected and untouched. If you have concerns, discuss them in advance and remove valuable or sensitive items from work areas when possible.

Health, Safety, and Privacy During Repairs

Maintenance workers must comply with provincial health and safety standards.
If repairs create mess or disturbance, workers should clean up after themselves.
Landlords cannot use maintenance as an excuse for unannounced visits or surveillance.

Tenants have the right to ask which contractors will be entering their home and can request to be present, though this is not a legal requirement.

For more information on keeping your home safe and healthy, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What to Do If Your Privacy is Breached

If a landlord enters without proper notice or repeatedly invades your privacy, you can:

Talk to your landlord and explain your concerns calmly.
Keep a log of each entry, including dates, times, and reasons.
Contact the Residential Tenancies Division for mediation or to file a complaint.

For repeated or severe breaches, tenants may be able to apply for an order or compensation through the tribunal.

Filing a Complaint or Application

The official body handling tenancy disputes is the Residential Tenancies Division of Service NL. If your landlord breaks entry rules, you may file:

Tenant’s Application Form (RT1000): Use this form to request a hearing regarding any breach, including privacy rights.
When to Use: If informal discussions with your landlord do not resolve the issue.
Download the Tenant’s Application Form (RT1000)
Example: You find your landlord entered your unit several times for repairs without any notice. You document the entries and submit the form to have the matter reviewed at a hearing.

Balancing Privacy with the Right to Repairs

Both tenants and landlords have responsibilities: landlords must maintain the property, and tenants must allow reasonable access for repairs, with notice. For a deeper look at roles, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

This balance ensures your home remains safe and comfortable, while your personal privacy is protected.

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For further Newfoundland and Labrador-specific tenant tips and legal facts, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my landlord always have to give 24 hours' notice before maintenance?
In almost all cases, yes. Notice must be in writing and given at least 24 hours in advance, except in emergencies where immediate access is needed.
What counts as an emergency entry?
Situations like fire, flooding, or urgent threats to health and safety allow for entry without notice. Routine repairs do not qualify as emergencies.
Can I refuse entry for repairs?
You cannot refuse reasonable entry for necessary repairs if proper notice is given. If you have safety or privacy concerns, discuss alternate arrangements with your landlord.
What are my options if my landlord enters without notice?
Start by documenting the incident, then speak to your landlord. If it continues, contact the Residential Tenancies Division and consider submitting the Tenant’s Application Form (RT1000).
Is my landlord allowed to show my unit for sale or rent while I live there?
Yes, but the same 24-hour written notice applies. Entry must be at a reasonable time, and your privacy must be respected.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

Your landlord generally needs to provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering for maintenance.
Emergencies are the main exception; otherwise, your privacy rights are always in effect.
If your privacy is breached, keep records and contact the Residential Tenancies Division for help.

Knowing your rights ensures your home feels private and safe—even when repairs are needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Division - Service NL: Official tribunal for tenancy issues, including privacy and maintenance
Public Legal Information Association of NL: Tenant information resources and legal support
Tenant support: Call 1-877-829-2608 (Residential Tenancies Division)
Download forms and laws: Full text of the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018

Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, see official legislation
Residential Tenancies Division, Service NL, official tribunal website