Landlord Showings: Tenant Rights in Nova Scotia

If you're a renter in Nova Scotia, you may face a situation where your landlord wants to show your unit to prospective buyers or new tenants. Understanding your rights and obligations in this process is essential for protecting your privacy and enjoying your home.

When Can a Landlord Show Your Rental Unit in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, landlords have a legal right to enter a rental unit to show it to prospective tenants or buyers, but strict rules must be followed to respect tenant privacy. Tenants are not required to vacate the property solely due to a showing, unless the legal process has ended their tenancy.

Required Notice for Entry

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia), landlords must provide written notice at least 24 hours before the intended entry. The notice must state the date, time (between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.), and reason for entry. Showing the unit to potential renters or buyers is a valid reason.

• The notice can be delivered in person or posted on your door.
• Landlords may only enter once per day unless you agree to more.
• Entry is not allowed on holidays unless you consent.

If you have questions about your landlord's obligations, Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained offers helpful details.

Your Privacy During Showings

During a showing, landlords or their agents must act respectfully and only access the unit for the stated purpose. If you have specific concerns about privacy or valuables, communicate them to your landlord in writing.

What Notices and Forms Are Involved?

The Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program does not issue a specific form for landlord showings, but the written notice must include:

• Landlord’s name and contact information
• Date and time of entry
• Purpose of entry (e.g., showing the unit)

If your landlord does not provide proper notice, you can submit a complaint or apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for dispute resolution.

Responding to Improper Entry or Notice Violations

If your landlord enters without notice or repeatedly violates the rules, you can:

• Document dates, times, and what happened
• Write to your landlord, stating the breach and asking them to stop
• If unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program using the Application to Director form (Form J)

You can find Form J – Application to Director on the official government site. Use this form if you need an official order to enforce your rights. For example, if your landlord enters without notice multiple times, submitting Form J can help resolve the issue through the official tribunal process.

Preparing for Landlord Showings

While landlord access is allowed by law, you can still take steps to safeguard your belongings and privacy:

• Be present during showings if you prefer (though it's not required)
• Secure any personal or valuable items
• Request in writing that the landlord or agent stay with visitors at all times

If you’re unsure how showings affect your other rights—such as moving out, cleaning, or final inspections—read up on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia (official fact page).

What If the Property Is Sold?

When a rental property is sold, your tenancy doesn’t automatically end. The new owner must honour your lease and provide proper notice if they require you to move out. If you plan to move, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant for step-by-step support.

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FAQ: Landlord Showings and Tenant Privacy

1. Can my landlord enter my unit with just a phone call?
   No. In Nova Scotia, landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering for showings (except emergencies).
2. Am I required to leave during a showing?
   No, you may stay in your unit during a showing if you wish.
3. What if my landlord enters without any notice?
   Document the incident and submit a complaint to the Residential Tenancies Program using Form J for a director’s order.
4. Can my landlord show my unit every day?
   No. By law, only one entry per day is allowed for showings unless you agree to additional entries.
5. Who can I contact if my privacy is routinely breached?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Program for advice and to file a formal complaint if needed.

Key Takeaways for Nova Scotia Tenants

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before showings
• Your right to privacy is protected by law—document violations
• Use official government forms and support if your rights are breached

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia) – Official tribunal for disputes and applications
• Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) – Full legislation text
• Nova Scotia Legal Aid: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/
• Dalhousie Legal Aid Service: Tenant support and advocacy

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1. See the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) for legal details on landlord entry and tenant privacy.
2. Residential Tenancies Program, Government of Nova Scotia: https://beta.novascotia.ca/residential-tenancy-program
3. Application to Director, Form J: Apply for a Director’s Order

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