Can my landlord install cameras in my apartment?

No, landlords cannot have cameras or audio devices inside your private unit. Only common areas may be monitored, and never your personal space.

Does my landlord have to notify me about remote entry or monitoring systems?

Yes. Landlords must inform tenants of any monitoring systems that could affect privacy, especially those enabling remote entry.

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

First, communicate your concerns with the landlord. If unresolved, file Form J with Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Program.

Who handles privacy complaints in Nova Scotia?

The Residential Tenancies Program oversees privacy and entry complaints between tenants and landlords in Nova Scotia.

Can Landlords Remotely Monitor Tenant Entry? NS Rights

Q: Can a landlord use a smart lock to enter my rental without notice?

No. Unless there’s an emergency, landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering using a smart lock.

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Nova Scotia published June 19, 2025

With new technology, many landlords in Nova Scotia consider using remote entry systems and cameras to monitor who comes and goes from a rental unit. Understandably, tenants are concerned about how these systems affect their privacy and rights under Nova Scotia law.

Remote Entry Monitoring: What Are Landlords Allowed to Do?

In Nova Scotia, tenant privacy is protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. While landlords have a right to maintain and secure their property, tenants also have the right to quiet enjoyment and reasonable privacy in their home.

Types of Remote Monitoring

Common types of remote monitoring that may concern tenants include:

Electronic key fob entry systems that log access times
Security cameras in common areas like lobbies or parking lots
Smart locks controlled remotely by landlords

Usually, landlords may install these for building security. However, strict rules apply to protect tenants’ private lives inside their rented homes.

Your Privacy Rights Inside Your Rental

According to the RTA, landlords cannot monitor inside your individual unit or record activity in ways that invade your personal privacy. They must:

Inform tenants about any security devices used in common areas
Not install cameras or microphones inside rental units
Only collect personal information that is necessary for building security

If you’re worried your landlord is monitoring you unfairly, knowing your rights and the limits of landlord surveillance is essential. You can read more general tenant rights in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Notice Requirements and Entry to Your Home

Under Nova Scotia’s RTA, landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering a tenant’s unit for inspections, repairs, or showings. The notice must state:

The reason for entry
Date and time (between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.)

Entry without proper notice (except in emergencies) or using remote entry without consent is not permitted.

Remote Access and Smart Locks

If a landlord installs a smart lock or other remote-entry system, they cannot use it to let themselves or others into your unit without following proper notice rules. If you have concerns about this kind of system or believe your access is being tracked inappropriately, consider documenting your concerns and communicating with your landlord in writing.

If your landlord adds new surveillance equipment, ask for written details about what’s recorded, how it’s used, and who can access that information.

Responding to Privacy Concerns: What Steps Can Tenants Take?

Tenants have the right to challenge unreasonable monitoring or inappropriate landlord entry. Steps you can take include:

Ask your landlord to clarify what data is being collected and why
Request removal or adjustment of any surveillance that invades your privacy
File a complaint with Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Program if issues can’t be resolved

Official Forms to Use

Form J: Application to Director – This form is used to resolve disputes, including privacy or entry complaints. For example, if your landlord installs a camera pointing at your apartment door or uses remote monitoring to enter your unit without proper notice, you can use Form J to file an official complaint.
Download Form J here: Application to Director (Form J)

You can learn more about landlord and tenant obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Related Issues: Security, Safety, and Moving In

Entry monitoring sometimes relates to building safety concerns. If you think landlord technology is installed for genuine security reasons but you feel unsafe or that your privacy is at risk, you have the right to speak up. For more general rental safety information, check out Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

FAQ: Tenants’ Questions About Remote Entry and Privacy in Nova Scotia

Can my landlord install cameras in my apartment?
No, landlords cannot have cameras or audio recording devices inside your private rental unit. Cameras in common areas are permitted but must not capture the inside of your home.
Does my landlord have to tell me about remote entry systems?
Yes, landlords must inform tenants if there is a remote entry or security monitoring system in place that could impact tenant privacy.
What can I do if I feel my landlord is violating my privacy?
You can first ask the landlord to address your concerns directly. If the situation isn't resolved, file an Application to Director (Form J) with the Residential Tenancies Program.
Who enforces privacy rights for tenants in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancies Program handles these disputes. They can help mediate or make binding decisions.
Can a landlord remotely access my unit using a smart lock?
Only if they provide proper notice (at least 24 hours unless it’s an emergency). Random or unannounced remote entry is not allowed.

Conclusion: Tenant Takeaways

Your privacy rights are well-protected in Nova Scotia under the RTA.
Landlords cannot monitor inside your private space or enter using remote access without proper notice.
If you believe your privacy is being violated, you have official steps and forms to address it.

For your next rental, remember you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada with confidence and stay informed about your rights along the way.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program – Main tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes
Phone: 1-800-670-4357 (Toll-free in Nova Scotia)
For detailed rights and responsibilities, see: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia
Legal information and assistance: Nova Scotia Legal Aid – nslegalaid.ca

Residential Tenancies Act, NS Residential Tenancies Act (official PDF)
Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program, official website
Form J: Application to Director, PDF form