Your Privacy Rights as a Renter in Newfoundland and Labrador

If you rent a home or apartment in Newfoundland and Labrador, you have a legal right to privacy. Understanding these rights—not just regarding landlord entry, but also surveillance and your personal belongings—helps you feel more secure and know when to take action if they're at risk.

Who Governs Tenant Privacy in Newfoundland and Labrador?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, tenant-landlord relationships are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 and enforced by the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL.^[1] This law gives you clear rights to privacy in your rental unit.

For further information on local tenant rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

When Can Your Landlord Enter Your Rental?

Your landlord cannot enter your unit at any time they wish. The Act spells out strict rules about when and how entry is allowed:

• Emergency: Immediate entry is allowed for emergencies (like fire or major leaks), no notice required.
• Non-Emergency (e.g. Repairs, Inspections, Showing Unit): Your landlord must:
• Give you at least 24 hours’ written notice
• State the date, time, and purpose of entry
• Enter only between 8am and 8pm
• Your Consent: If you agree, they may enter at other times.

Landlords are not allowed to abuse their right of entry or use it as a way to harass you. Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained provides more details on mutual expectations.

Notice of Entry Form

While written notice can be as simple as a note or email, it is recommended that landlords use the Notice of Entry form (PDF) (no official number). This form should be delivered personally, by email (if you consent), or left in your mailbox. Example: If repairs are needed, your landlord gives you a Notice of Entry indicating the date and time they'll be bringing in a plumber.

Other Aspects of Rental Privacy

Besides limiting entry, your privacy includes:

• No unauthorized surveillance: Landlords cannot install video or audio in your private living areas.
• Mail and packages: Your landlord cannot open or withhold your mail.
• Your guests: You may have guests unless the lease clearly restricts this—check your agreement, but it cannot unreasonably limit your rights.
• Personal space: Landlords must respect your right to quiet enjoyment and not interfere with your day-to-day living.

Tip:

If Your Privacy is Violated: What to Do

If you believe your landlord has entered without proper notice, harassed you, or otherwise infringed on your privacy, you may take action:

• Step 1: Communicate your concerns in writing and keep a copy.
• Step 2: If the issue continues, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL. Use the Tenant’s Application to Director form (no official number).
• Step 3: Submit the completed form to your nearest Service NL office or by email (see the government website for locations and email instructions).

The Director will investigate and may hold a hearing. They can order the landlord to stop entering unlawfully or provide other remedies.

How Privacy Can Affect Evictions

If a landlord repeatedly violates your privacy rights, this may count as harassment or an illegal action under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. This could be grounds to:

• Ask the Director for a rent reduction or a lawful order for the landlord to stop
• Dispute a retaliatory eviction if the landlord tries to evict you after you complain

If facing a notice of eviction, carefully check the reason cited. Tenants have the right to challenge any eviction that seems related to exercising your legal rights, such as making a privacy complaint.

Links to Useful Resources

For a full overview of tenant and landlord responsibilities—including privacy, repairs, and inspections—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. When preparing to move out, consult Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for information on leaving your rental legally and securely.

Looking for a new place? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for easy browsing and reliable listings.

FAQ: Tenant Privacy in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment when I’m not home?
   Your landlord may only enter with proper written notice (at least 24 hours ahead) stating when and why, unless it’s an emergency or you’ve agreed otherwise.
2. What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?
   Emergencies include fires, serious water leaks, or other urgent risks to safety or the property. In these cases, notice is not required.
3. Can my landlord install cameras inside my unit?
   No, it’s illegal for a landlord to monitor private areas in your rental, such as your living room or bedroom, without your consent.
4. What can I do if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
   Keep records and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section using the Tenant’s Application to Director form. They can investigate and may issue an order against the landlord.
5. Will complaining about privacy violations risk eviction?
   Landlords cannot legally evict you in retaliation for asserting your rights. If this happens, you may contest the eviction with the Residential Tenancies Section.

Key Takeaways for Newfoundland and Labrador Renters

• Your landlord must give proper notice (24 hours, in writing) to enter your unit, except in an emergency.
• Unauthorized entry, surveillance in private areas, and tampering with your mail are illegal.
• You can file a complaint and seek remedies if your privacy rights are violated.

Protecting your privacy is an important part of your rights as a renter—and there are processes in place to help you hold your landlord accountable if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL – information, forms, and complaint filing
• Tenant support line: 1-877-829-2608 (province-wide)
• Legal Aid Newfoundland and Labrador: Legal Aid NL – free or low-cost legal assistance for qualifying tenants
• Online overview: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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1. [1] Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 – Read full Act
2. Residential Tenancies Section (official forms and contact): Service NL

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