Can my landlord put security cameras in shared hallways?

Yes, cameras are permitted in common areas but never inside a tenant's private space without consent.

Does my landlord need my consent to install a smart lock?

Landlords can use smart locks for security, but should not track your activity without consent or emergency reasons.

What should I do if I think my digital privacy is being violated?

Request clarification from your landlord in writing. If unresolved, gather evidence and file a complaint with the Office of the Rentals Officer.

Can my landlord access my devices or Wi-Fi?

No, your landlord does not have the right to access your personal devices or accounts.

How do I make a privacy complaint about my landlord?

Use Form 3 (Tenant Application) from the Office of the Rentals Officer and submit all supporting documents.

Protecting Tenant Privacy: Digital Rights in Northwest Territories

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Northwest Territories published: June 19, 2025

As smart locks, digital cameras, and online records become more common, tenants in the Northwest Territories must be aware of their digital privacy rights. This guide explains how the law protects you from digital overreach by landlords—and what you can do if issues arise.

Understanding Digital Privacy in Your Rental Home

Your right to privacy is protected under the Residential Tenancies Act of the Northwest Territories and under general Canadian privacy principles. In simple terms, landlords cannot unreasonably collect, use, or share information about you, nor monitor your activities inside your unit without consent or valid legal grounds.^[1]

Digital overreach occurs when landlords use technology—like smart cameras, keyless entry, Wi-Fi monitoring, or even requesting access to your personal devices—in a way that invades your legal privacy rights.

Your Landlord’s Digital Boundaries

Landlords must follow clear rules when using digital technology:

Surveillance Cameras: Cameras are allowed in common areas (like building entrances or hallways) but never inside your rental unit or on private balconies without your written consent.
Smart Locks & Entry Devices: Landlords may install digital locks for security, but cannot use these devices to track when you come and go except for safety or legal reasons.
Personal Information Handling: Any collection or sharing of digital data (like your email, digital signatures, or Wi-Fi usage) must comply with privacy laws and be reasonable for managing the tenancy.

For a general overview of landlord and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Notice and Consent: When Can Your Landlord Use Technology?

Except in emergencies or if required by law, your landlord must:

Give you advanced written notice (generally 24 hours) before entering your unit—including for digital inspections, smart lock changes, or maintenance that affects digital devices
Get your explicit consent for any monitoring or access to your personal devices

If you suspect your privacy has been violated digitally by your landlord, document the evidence (photographs, emails, and dates) and address the issue by following the steps below.

How to Respond to Suspected Digital Overreach

Check your rental agreement for clauses about digital devices and cameras
Politely request clarification from your landlord in writing if you're concerned about surveillance or digital monitoring
If issues persist, submit a formal written complaint to your landlord—keep copies for your records
If unresolved, file a complaint with the Office of the Rentals Officer in the Northwest Territories

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Form: Tenant Application (Form 3) – Use when you want to formally raise a privacy, entry, or technology misuse complaint with the Rentals Officer.
Download Tenant Application (Form 3).
Example: If a landlord installs a camera facing your unit door without consent and refuses to remove it, fill out Form 3 and submit it to the Rentals Officer with supporting evidence.

The Northwest Territories' tenancy complaints are handled by the Office of the Rentals Officer.

Key Legislation Protecting Your Privacy

Your privacy as a tenant is primarily governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories). Privacy for digital information is further informed by federal law, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Always check for updates or consult the Rentals Officer if unsure.

Common Digital Privacy Issues for Tenants

Cameras or audio devices installed inside rental units without tenant approval
Requests for access to your private Wi-Fi network or electronic devices
Landlord tracking smart lock data for non-emergency purposes
Online harassment or over-collection of personal information

If you experience any of these, keep records and reach out to the Office of the Rentals Officer promptly. For more tips on troubleshooting rental problems, check Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them or review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

If you’re ever unsure about a digital device your landlord wants to install, ask for details in writing. You have a right to clear information and privacy in your own space.

Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find rental units where landlords respect digital privacy and comply with local laws.

FAQ: Tenant Digital Privacy Issues in Northwest Territories

Can my landlord put security cameras in shared hallways?
Yes, cameras are allowed in shared or public building spaces, but never inside your apartment or private area without your consent.
Does my landlord need consent to use a smart lock or electronic entry system?
The landlord can use these for building security, but cannot use them to monitor your comings and goings except for legitimate reasons. Monitoring should not be constant or invasive.
What should I do if I feel my digital privacy is threatened?
Politely ask your landlord to explain their actions in writing. If the issue is not resolved, document your concerns and file an application with the Office of the Rentals Officer.
Can my landlord ask for access to my personal devices or Wi-Fi?
Generally, no. Your private accounts and personal devices are protected and off-limits to your landlord.
How do I make a formal privacy complaint?
Complete Form 3 (Tenant Application) and submit it to the Office of the Rentals Officer, providing clear evidence to support your case.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Office of the Rentals Officer (NWT): View official information, forms, and contacts
Northwest Territories Department of Justice: For tenancy guides and privacy resources, see the department website
PIPEDA (Federal Privacy Law): Learn about your digital data protection rights
Local Tenant Advocacy: Seek support from tenant rights groups or legal clinics in your area if you need assistance filing complaints or understanding your rights.