Can my landlord send tradespeople in without my permission?

No. Except for emergencies, the landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice with date, time, and clear reason.

What should I do if tradespeople damage my property?

Document the damage with photos, notify your landlord in writing, and work with them to arrange repairs or compensation.

If repairs are urgent, do I have to let them in right away?

Yes. In emergencies, tradespeople can enter without notice to protect your safety or prevent major damage.

Where do I file a complaint if privacy rules are broken?

You can submit an Application to Director (Form C) to the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program.

How do I know if a notice to enter is valid?

It must include the date, time, reason for entry, and be provided in writing at least 24 hours ahead unless emergency repairs are required.

Tenant Rights if Tradespeople Need Access: Nova Scotia Guide

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Nova Scotia published June 20, 2025

If you're renting a home or apartment in Nova Scotia, you may wonder about your privacy when your landlord or their tradespeople ask to enter for repairs or maintenance. Understanding your rights to privacy—and the rules for allowing tradespeople access—helps you stay protected, avoid disputes, and ensure your home is safe and well maintained.

When Landlords Can Send Tradespeople Into Your Rental

The Residential Tenancies Act of Nova Scotia sets clear rules about when and how a landlord or their agent (such as a plumber, electrician, or other tradesperson) may enter your rental unit. A landlord cannot enter just anytime—they must:

Give you written notice at least 24 hours in advance (unless it’s an emergency)
Schedule the entry between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., unless you agree to another time
State the reason for entry, date, and time on the notice

Common reasons for entry include repairs, inspections, or showing your unit to a prospective tenant. For non-urgent repairs, the written notice requirement always applies.

Can You Deny Entry to Tradespeople?

As a tenant, you have a right to enjoy your home without unnecessary disruption. However, you cannot refuse reasonable access when the landlord has followed the correct notice procedures—unless the reason for entry isn’t legal or you can show it’s unnecessary at the scheduled time.

If you deny lawful access, your landlord may file a dispute with the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program. This could impact your tenancy, so it’s best to communicate and document any concerns.

What About Emergencies?

Landlords and tradespeople can enter your unit without notice in emergencies, like a burst pipe, fire, or serious health and safety risk. In these cases, your safety and the building’s integrity take priority.

Your Privacy Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

The law balances your right to privacy with the landlord’s obligation to keep the property in good repair. Landlords are responsible for maintaining Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained, and sometimes this means allowing skilled trades to fix urgent or routine issues.

However, unnecessary or repeated entries can amount to harassment. If you feel your privacy is being violated, keep a record of dates, times, and reasons for each entry and seek help when needed.

Tip: If you’re worried about COVID-19 or other health concerns, ask your landlord to coordinate tradespeople visits at a time when you can be present, or request proper health and safety protocols during entry.

Forms and Dispute Resolution: What Tenants Should Know

If your landlord does not give proper notice or you feel they are abusing the right of entry, you can file a dispute. Conversely, if you block lawful access, the landlord may file a dispute as well.

Form: Application to Director (Form C)
Use this form to apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Program. For example, if a landlord tries to enter without notice, you can file this form to request an order for the landlord to follow the law. Download Application to Director (Form C).
When to use: Whenever you believe the landlord has breached your privacy rights, or if your landlord believes you’ve denied lawful access.

Addressing Health and Safety Issues

Allowing entry for tradespeople often relates to fixing Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. Repairs to plumbing, electricity, fire safety, or pest control keep your rental habitable and safe for everyone.

Routine vs. Emergency Repairs: What’s the Difference?

Routine repairs require notice, but emergencies don’t. For questions about who handles what, see our guide on Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

What Nova Scotia Law Says

Tenant entry and privacy are governed by the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. Section 9 covers notice for entry and exceptions for emergencies. Both landlords and tenants risk penalties if they violate these rules.

Looking for a New Place or Just Curious?

If your current rental situation isn’t working or you want to compare options, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for a simple, map-based search.

For a full outline of tenant and landlord law in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

FAQ: Tenant Rights and Tradespeople Entry in Nova Scotia

Can my landlord send tradespeople in without my permission?
No. In most cases, they must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice with date, time, and reason for entry. Only true emergencies allow entry without notice.
What should I do if tradespeople damage my property?
Report it immediately to your landlord in writing. Take photos, document the damage, and negotiate repairs or compensation if needed.
If repairs are urgent, do I have to let them in right away?
Yes, if there is a risk to health or property (e.g., broken water pipes, electrical faults), entry can happen without notice.
Where do I file a complaint if privacy rules are broken?
Submit an Application to Director (Form C) with the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program.
How do I know if a notice to enter is valid?
It must be in writing, state the date/time/reason, and provide at least 24 hours’ warning unless urgent repairs are needed.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Privacy and Safety

Landlords must give written notice for tradespeople entry—except in emergencies.
Tenants should not unreasonably deny legal access but can challenge improper entries.
Keep communication and records clear; use official forms to resolve disputes when needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program: Tenant-landlord dispute resolution, forms, and information (1-800-670-4357).
ACORN Nova Scotia: Advocacy and tenant support (non-governmental).
Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act (full text)
For more about your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia). Read the full Act.
Residential Tenancies Program, Nova Scotia Government. Official program page.
Application to Director (Form C). Download from the government website.