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

Document the incident and raise the issue with your landlord. If it happens again, file Form C with the Residential Tenancies Program.

Can my landlord enter when I am not home?

Yes, with proper 24-hour written notice, and only during permitted hours unless it is an emergency.

Can a landlord enter for repairs without notice?

Only for urgent, emergency repairs. Otherwise, written notice at least 24 hours in advance is required.

What form should I use to complain about illegal entry?

Use Form C: Application to Director, available from the Residential Tenancies Program.

Landlord Entry Rules for Tenants in Nova Scotia

Evictions Nova Scotia published: June 13, 2025

Understanding when your landlord can legally enter your rental unit is essential for protecting your privacy and peace of mind as a tenant in Nova Scotia. Tenancy law sets clear guidelines about entry rights, so you know what to expect and what to do if your rights are violated.

Who Regulates Landlord Entry in Nova Scotia?

Residential tenancies in Nova Scotia are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia). This provincial tribunal handles disputes, complaints, and questions related to landlord and tenant rights, including matters of entry and privacy.

What Does Nova Scotia Law Say About Landlord Entry?

The Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) governs when and how a landlord can enter your unit. Key rules are:

Notice Required for Entry: Your landlord must give at least 24 hours written notice before entering for inspections, repairs, or showings, and must state the reason and time of entry. Entry must occur between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
No Notice Required in Emergencies: In urgent cases (like fire, burst pipes, or immediate repairs to prevent damage or ensure safety), your landlord may enter without notice.
Inspecting/Showing the Unit: If your landlord needs to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers, or do required inspections, they must follow notice rules.
Your Consent: If you consent at the time, your landlord can enter without advance written notice.

Landlords can never enter simply for convenience or without a legitimate reason. The right to peaceful enjoyment of your home is protected by law.¹

Situations When a Landlord Can Enter

Repairs and Maintenance: To fix things that aren’t urgent but require attention.
Annual or Agreed-Upon Inspections: Such as smoke detector checks or regular inspections.
Showing the Property: To potential buyers or new tenants, but only with proper notice.
Emergencies: Such as water leaks, fire, health and safety hazards, or anything that threatens the property or occupant safety.

If you’re dealing with pest problems, maintenance delays, or routine fixes, knowing these entry rules can make it easier to communicate with your landlord. For example, you may find it useful to read Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities to understand your obligations and rights.

What if Entry Rules Are Not Followed?

If a landlord enters without proper notice or outside permitted hours (other than in an emergency), you may have grounds for a complaint and may be able to seek remedies through the Residential Tenancies Program. Document any instances of unlawful entry, as written records will help support your case.

Relevant Official Forms for Tenants

Form C: Application to Director (for Complaint or Remedy)
Official Form C lets tenants request the Residential Tenancies Program investigate if their landlord enters unlawfully or violates their privacy.
Example: If a landlord repeatedly shows up without proper notice, a tenant can file Form C to request compensation or an order remedying the situation.
Notice of Entry (Written Notice from Landlord)
While there isn’t a government template, landlords must provide written notice—at least 24 hours in advance—stating the reason for entry and the time window. Keep a copy for your records.

Common Issues and Tenant Rights

Some tenants experience landlords entering with little or no warning, or for reasons not permitted under the law. If you face this, you can:

Remind your landlord of the 24-hour written notice rule.
Politely decline entry if the rules have not been followed, unless it's an emergency.
Document any unauthorized entry (dates, times, details).
Apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for help, using Form C.

If you’re unsure about your full set of rights and responsibilities after moving in, review What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for a solid overview.

Exceptions: Emergencies and Health & Safety

Health and safety take priority. Landlords may enter without notice only if there's an immediate threat—like a fire, flooding, or another urgent repair. This protects everyone in the building. For more on tenant safety, read Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Your Rights—Summary for Nova Scotia Tenants

Your landlord must give you written notice at least 24 hours ahead (except in emergencies).
Entry must happen between 9am and 9pm.
You can consent to entry at any time—written notice is not needed for that instance.
For disputes, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Program with the correct form.
If you want a province-wide overview of your rights, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Remember, finding a great rental can help avoid entry disputes altogether—Canada's best rental listings platform makes it easy to connect with reputable landlords and browse trusted rental options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my landlord enters without proper notice?
Document the incident and inform your landlord of the legal rules. If the behaviour continues, file Form C with the Residential Tenancies Program for help.
Can my landlord enter my unit when I’m not home?
Yes, but only with proper written notice (except in emergencies) and during permitted hours. You don’t have to be present unless you wish.
Is there ever a situation where my landlord can enter without advance notice?
Yes, in an emergency—such as a fire or urgent repair for health and safety.
Does my landlord need my permission every time?
If you have already received proper written notice, your permission is not required. For all other times, consent is needed unless it’s an emergency.

Key Takeaways

Landlords in Nova Scotia must give 24-hour written notice before most entries.
Emergencies permit immediate entry to protect health, safety, or property.
Tenants can enforce privacy rights through the Residential Tenancies Program using Form C.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Program - Nova Scotia (for disputes and complaints)
Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia (free tenant rights info)
Tenancy Forms and Applications
For a full summary, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) – official legislation (Section 13, Right of Entry)
Service Nova Scotia, Residential Tenancies Program – official program website
Form C: Application to Director – downloadable official form