Many tenants wonder whether they should log when a landlord enters their rental. In the Northwest Territories, tenants have privacy rights and landlords generally must give notice before entering except in emergencies. Keeping a clear, dated record of every entry — including who entered, the reason, and any conversations or repairs — helps protect your rights, supports habitability or privacy complaints, and can be important evidence in a dispute. This guide explains when landlords can enter, practical steps to document entries, which official forms to use, and when to contact the Residential Tenancies Office for help. The advice is written for tenants in plain language so you can take straightforward, practical steps to protect your home and privacy in NWT.
What landlord entry rules mean in the Northwest Territories
In NWT the Residential Tenancies Office (Department of Justice, Government of the Northwest Territories) explains that landlords may enter for specific reasons such as repairs, inspections, or to show the unit, normally after giving advance notice.[1] Entry in an emergency (for example, a fire or major water leak) is usually permitted immediately. The territory's Residential Tenancies Act sets the legal framework for notice periods, acceptable times, and the reasons landlords can enter.[2]
Should you log landlord entry?
Yes. Logging each landlord or agent entry is a low-cost, practical habit that helps tenants track patterns, protect privacy, and show whether a landlord followed the notice requirements. A log is also useful when there are concerns about habitability, repairs, or repeated unannounced entries. You do not need to assume bad intent; logs simply create an objective record you can use if questions arise.
What to include in each log entry
- Date and time of entry.
- Name of person who entered (landlord, agent, contractor).
- Stated reason for the visit (inspection, repair, showing).
- Any work done or observed (repairs completed or outstanding).
- Any follow-up agreements or promised dates from the landlord.
- Photos or short notes of condition if relevant.
How a log helps
- Evidence for a dispute about improper entry or failure to respect notice rules.
- Proof of repair requests and whether landlord followed through.
- A record that supports complaints about privacy breaches or harassment.
How to log and document entry
Use a simple paper or digital log kept in a safe place and back up photos or messages. When possible, ask for written notice and keep a copy of the notice or message. If an entry is unannounced or you believe it was improper, note the details immediately, take dated photos if there is damage or work, and keep copies of any messages or emails.
There are no special forms required just to keep a log, but the Residential Tenancies Office lists official guidance and the Act that explain notice timing and lawful reasons for entry; consult those sources when deciding whether to file a complaint.[1][2]
When to consider formal action
- If entries are repeated without proper notice, consider asking the landlord in writing to stop or to follow the proper notice process.
- If the problem continues, you can file an application or complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office to request a hearing.
- Contact legal aid or tenant advice services for help drafting complaints or understanding deadlines.
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FAQ
- Do landlords always need permission to enter?
- Landlords do not need explicit permission for lawful entries, but they generally must give proper written or verbal notice in advance except in emergencies; check the Residential Tenancies Office guidance for specific notice periods.[1]
- What if entry happens without notice?
- Record the visit in your log, take photos if relevant, ask the person to identify themselves, and send a written follow-up to the landlord asking for an explanation; you can use your log as evidence if you file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.[1]
- Which official form should I use to start a complaint?
- The Residential Tenancies Office provides instructions for filing an application for dispute resolution or complaint; there is not always a single numbered form for logging entries, but the office explains how to submit your evidence and request a hearing.[1][2]
How-To
- Check your lease and note the entry and notice clauses so you understand agreed procedures.
- Start a dated entry log that records who entered, why, and what happened.
- Ask the landlord for written notice for future entries and keep copies of messages or emails.
- If entries continue improperly, file an application or complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office and attach your log and any photos as evidence.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Keep a simple, dated record each time a landlord or agent enters your rental.
- Ask for written notice and save messages to show compliance or breaches.
- Use your log as evidence if you need to file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) - official legislation
- Legal Aid and tenant services, Government of the Northwest Territories
