Tenants in Nunavut have the right to privacy in their rental units, even during periods of public health orders like COVID-19. However, certain circumstances allow landlords to enter a tenant's unit, but these are governed by strict rules set out in Nunavut law. This article explains your rights as a tenant regarding landlord entry during emergencies or health-related restrictions.
Landlord Entry: The Basics in Nunavut
Landlords in Nunavut generally need to give written notice before entering your rental unit. The Nunavut Rental Office enforces these rules under the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)[1]. During public health emergencies — such as the COVID-19 pandemic — special considerations may apply, but tenants' rights to privacy do not disappear.
Usual Notice Requirements
- Landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice before entering.
- The entry must be between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. unless you agree to another time.
- The notice must state why entry is needed (for example, for repairs or inspection).
These rules apply unless there is an emergency, such as a fire, flood, or another urgent health or safety issue.
Entry Rules During Public Health Orders (e.g., COVID-19)
During the COVID-19 pandemic or upon the issuance of any official health orders in Nunavut, landlords are expected to follow both tenancy laws and public health guidelines. This may include wearing masks, minimizing time spent in your unit, and postponing non-essential visits.
- Essential Repairs: Landlords may enter without the usual notice for emergencies or essential repairs affecting health and safety (e.g., burst pipe).
- Health and Safety: If an entry is required for health or safety reasons, landlords should follow Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting as well as current government health directives.
- Non-Emergency Visits: Routine inspections, showings for new tenants, or other non-urgent reasons should be delayed or done virtually whenever possible during restrictions.
Landlords and tenants are expected to cooperate to reduce risks and follow guidance from health authorities.
What If a Landlord Doesn't Follow the Rules?
If your landlord enters your unit without proper notice or without following public health protocols, you can file a complaint with the Nunavut Rental Office. Keep a record of all communications and any relevant details (time, date, reason for entry).
- The official form for complaints is the Tenant Application Form (Form 5). Use this if your landlord repeatedly violates your privacy rights.
- How to use: Complete the form, explaining the issue with landlord entry and attach any evidence (e.g. written notices, photos). Submit to the Rental Office by mail or in person.
- Access it on the Nunavut Justice: Tenant Application Form (Form 5) website.
For more details about tenant and landlord duties, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Summary: Entry During Health Orders
Landlords in Nunavut must follow the law and public health guidance. Notice is still required unless there is an emergency, and non-urgent entries can be postponed. Know your rights and follow up with the Rental Office if rules aren’t followed.
For current listings or if you’re thinking of relocating due to landlord privacy issues, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada using Houseme’s platform.
For a broader look at tenant and landlord rules in your region, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my landlord enter my rental unit during a COVID-19 outbreak? Yes, but only for emergencies or essential repairs. For non-urgent matters, entry should be postponed or notice must be given and public health protocols followed.
- Do landlords still need to provide 24 hours’ notice during a health order? Yes, unless it is an emergency situation such as a health or safety risk.
- What should I do if my landlord enters without my permission during public health restrictions? Document the incident and submit a complaint using Form 5 to the Nunavut Rental Office, including any evidence.
- Can routine inspections be done during health emergencies? Routine inspections are generally postponed unless there is a valid, urgent reason and proper notice is given.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants
- Landlords must give 24 hours’ notice for entry, except in emergencies.
- Follow public health guidelines and legal requirements during emergencies.
- Report violations to the Nunavut Rental Office using the correct form.
Understanding your privacy rights helps ensure a safe and respectful rental experience, especially during health crises.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Nunavut Rental Office: 1-867-975-6314 (handles complaints and inquiries)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut) - Full Legislation
- Government of Nunavut: Tenant and landlord resources
- Local community legal clinics or tenant advocacy services for additional help
