What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?

Emergencies include fire, flooding, loss of essential services, or any immediate risk to tenant safety or property.

Can my landlord enter my unit if I'm not home during an emergency?

Yes, landlords can enter a rental immediately during emergencies, even if you are not present, to address urgent issues.

What should I do if my landlord enters my rental without notice?

Document what happened and file a complaint using the proper form with the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office.

When is my consent enough for landlord entry?

If you specifically agree to your landlord entering (such as for a repair you approved), no advance notice is required for that occasion.

Exceptions to 24-Hour Landlord Entry Notice in Northwest Territories

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Northwest Territories published June 20, 2025

If you're renting a home in the Northwest Territories, you have a right to privacy—but there are situations where your landlord may enter your rental unit with less than 24 hours’ notice. Understanding when these exceptions apply is important for protecting your rights while ensuring safe, responsible tenancy.

Landlord Entry: What Does the Law Say in Northwest Territories?

Landlord entry in the Northwest Territories is regulated by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. In most cases, landlords are required to give tenants a written notice at least 24 hours before entering their unit, including the date, time, and reason for entry. But certain situations allow for exceptions to this rule.

Standard 24-Hour Notice Rules

Routine maintenance, inspection, or repairs
Showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers
Other reasonable landlord business

In these cases, written notice is a must. Tenants do not have to be present, but the entry time should be reasonable—usually between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Exceptions: When Landlords Can Enter Without 24-Hour Notice

There are important exceptions to the 24-hour notice rule, outlined in the RTA:

Emergencies: If there’s an emergency (like a fire, flooding, or urgent health and safety threat), landlords may enter the unit immediately without notice.
With Tenant’s Consent: If you verbally agree (for example, you invite the landlord in for a repair), no notice is needed in that instance.
Abandonment: If the landlord reasonably believes you have abandoned the rental unit, they may lawfully enter to confirm the situation.

The goal of these exceptions is to balance tenant privacy with the safety and upkeep of the unit, as well as health and safety considerations.

Emergency Situations Explained

Emergencies usually mean severe threats—like burst pipes, electrical hazards, or structural damage putting your safety at risk. In these cases, landlords must act quickly, but they should still try to notify you as soon as possible, or leave written notice inside the unit about the entry and the work done.

For more in-depth information on handling urgent repairs as a tenant, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Tenant Consent and Your Rights

If you agree to your landlord’s request to come inside (for example, a same-day repair), document your consent by text or email for your records. Remember, consent is for that instance only and does not automatically give them ongoing access later on.

Health, Safety, and Inspection Entry

Landlords may also be required to enter for health and safety inspections by local authorities, but—unless it's an emergency—they must provide proper notice. Protecting your rental’s safety standards is important for everyone involved. For more details, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Filing a Complaint or Dispute

If you believe your landlord entered illegally, document the date, time, and circumstances in writing. You may file a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office, the tribunal responsible for residential tenancy matters in the Northwest Territories. Learn more about your legal options under Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Explore more about your rental rights and responsibilities after moving in: Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Key Forms for Tenants in the Northwest Territories

Tenant Application to the Rental Officer (Form 4): Use this form to complain about illegal entry or privacy violations. View and download official forms.

Practical example: If your landlord enters without notice and it’s not an emergency or with your consent, fill out Form 4 and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office. Be sure to attach all your evidence (texts, photos, witnesses).

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?
Emergencies include fire, major flooding, loss of essential services (like heat or electricity), and urgent situations that risk tenant safety or building integrity.
Can my landlord enter while I'm not home in an emergency?
Yes, landlords can enter immediately if an emergency threatens your unit—even if you are not present. They should leave proof of entry and a reason why.
What if my landlord enters without notice and it's not an emergency?
If your landlord enters without proper notice and no valid exception applies, document the incident and file an application (Form 4) to the Residential Tenancies Office.
Do I have to let the landlord in for routine maintenance?
Only if they have given proper 24-hour written notice. Otherwise, you are within your rights to say no unless it's an emergency.
Where can I learn about all my tenant rights in Northwest Territories?
Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for a full overview of legal protections and responsibilities.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Landlords must give 24-hour written notice before non-emergency entries.
Exceptions include emergencies, your direct consent, or abandonment of the unit.
If your privacy is violated, use official forms to file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.

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Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office: Contact for forms, questions, or to file applications
Residential Tenancies Official Forms Library
NWT Health and Social Services – Public Housing Support
Full legal information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories