Landlord Entry Rules During Health Orders in Northwest Territories

Understanding your privacy rights as a tenant is crucial—especially during times when public health orders or emergencies like COVID-19 affect everyday life in the Northwest Territories. If you're worried about when and how your landlord can enter your unit, this article will help you navigate your rights, obligations, and the steps to take if issues arise.

How Landlord Entry Works Under Normal Circumstances

In the Northwest Territories, landlords usually have the right to enter a rental unit only in specific situations. These are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)¹:

• To carry out repairs or inspections
• To show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers
• If the tenant agrees to the entry
• In emergencies (e.g., fire, flooding)

Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice, except in emergencies.

Temporary Rules During COVID-19 or Health Emergencies

During the COVID-19 pandemic or when public health orders are in place, there may be additional rules or temporary measures for tenant safety. While the RTA still applies, these situations may:

• Limit non-essential entries (for example, routine inspections may be postponed)
• Require landlords and contractors to follow public health protocols (masking, sanitizing, distancing)
• Allow virtual tours or inspections as an alternative to in-person entry
• Encourage tenants to report if they are in isolation or have tested positive for COVID-19, so landlords can postpone non-urgent entries

Whenever a landlord needs to enter during a health crisis, both parties should communicate openly, and written notices must include the reason and time of entry.

Exceptions for Emergencies

Landlords may always enter without notice in emergency situations that threaten health, safety, or property. For example, if there's a burst pipe or fire, your landlord can come in right away.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

As a tenant, you have the right to:

• Receive proper notice of entry except for emergencies
• Expect your landlord to follow all health orders and safety guidelines
• Request that entry be postponed if you are sick or self-isolating (though essential repairs may still proceed with precautions)

It's important to maintain the unit and report required repairs, even during a health emergency. Learn more about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Required Forms and Notice Templates

Landlord’s Written Notice of Entry (no official government form required):

• This written notice must state: the reason for entry, date, and proposed time (within reasonable hours, typically 8 am–8 pm).
• Example: If your landlord needs to check the heating system, they must leave a written notice at least 24 hours in advance, specifying when and why they intend to enter.

Always keep a copy of such notices for your records. If you disagree with the landlord’s entry or believe it is unreasonable, you can apply to the tribunal.

Applying to the NWT Rental Office

If you feel your privacy rights are being violated or unsafe entry is being demanded, you can apply to the NWT Rental Office. Use the appropriate form for dispute resolution. The main forms and steps are:

• Application to the Rental Office (Form 1): Used to file disputes about entry, repairs, or breaches of privacy. Download Form 1 (Tenant).
• File your application as soon as possible after the issue occurs.
• Provide as much documentation as possible (notices, emails, texts).

Health and Safety During Entry

Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities to keep the rental safe. During health orders:

• Landlords should take precautions (masks, hand sanitizer, minimal time inside)
• Tenants should try to provide a safe environment (open windows, allow distance)
• If you are at higher risk, communicate this clearly in writing to discuss alternatives

Read more about Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for a full overview.

Where to Find More Information

To learn about tenant and landlord rights in your territory, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories. For nationwide house searching, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and view rental homes from coast to coast.

FAQ: Landlord Entry and Tenant Rights in Health Emergencies

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment during a COVID-19 outbreak?
   Yes. Your landlord may enter if it follows the rules in the RTA and any public health orders. Non-essential visits should be minimized, and safety measures must be followed.
2. What should I do if I'm self-isolating and my landlord requests entry?
   Inform your landlord about your status as soon as possible. Essential repairs may proceed with added safety precautions, but non-urgent entries may be postponed.
3. Is 24 hours’ notice always required for landlord entry?
   Yes, unless there is an emergency. In health emergencies, communication is key. Notice must still be given for non-emergency entries.
4. What if my landlord enters without notice or ignores health rules?
   Document the incident, communicate your concerns in writing, and file a complaint with the NWT Rental Office if needed.
5. Can repairs or inspections be refused during health orders?
   Essential repairs and safety checks should not be refused; however, both parties can discuss options, like rescheduling non-urgent work or using virtual inspections when possible.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must provide 24 hours’ written notice for entry, except emergencies.
• During health emergencies, additional precautions and communication are required.
• Contact the NWT Rental Office if your privacy or safety rights are not respected.

Stay informed about your tenancy rights and act promptly on any concerns to keep your home safe and secure.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Rental Office: Dispute resolution, forms, and guidance
• GNWT Department of Justice – Residential Tenancies: Tenant FAQs and legislation
• NWT Legal Aid: Tenant advocacy services (Legal Aid)

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1. NWT Residential Tenancies Act
2. NWT Rental Office, official forms & process
3. Government of Northwest Territories, Department of Justice: Residential Tenancies

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