Tenants in Ontario often wonder what a landlord can and cannot do when they receive a 24‑hour notice of entry. This guide explains common reasons a landlord may enter — repairs, inspections, showing the unit, or to carry out agreed work — and describes your rights as a renter, how to check the notice for required information, and what to do if you believe the entry is invalid or discriminatory. It also covers required timelines, documentation you should keep, and practical steps to resolve disputes, including official forms and where to get help from the Landlord and Tenant Board. The tone is practical and easy to follow for everyday renters.
What the law says
In Ontario the rules about landlord entry are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. The Landlord and Tenant Board handles many disputes about entry, notices and tenant rights, and explains how to file an application if you cannot resolve the issue with your landlord[2]. The Board also provides forms and guides so you can choose the correct application for your situation[3].
Common valid reasons for 24-hour entry
- To carry out repairs or maintenance to the unit or building.
- To inspect the unit for condition, health or safety concerns.
- To show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers during scheduled viewings.
- In an emergency to protect life or property (may be immediate without 24-hour notice).
A proper 24-hour notice must include the reason, the date and a time window when the landlord or their agent will enter (commonly between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.). If any required detail is missing, you can raise the issue with the landlord and document the deficiency.
How to respond to a notice
When you receive a 24-hour notice, check the details and take these practical steps. If the entry is for repairs or safety issues, allow reasonable access but make a record of the notice and any work done. For showings, you may negotiate a different time that suits your schedule. If you believe an entry is illegal or retaliatory, document every communication and consider applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board for resolution.
- Confirm the notice includes the date, time window and reason for entry.
- Take photos or notes when the landlord attends and keep copies of messages or emails.
- Try to resolve scheduling or privacy concerns by contacting the landlord in writing.
- If the landlord proceeds unlawfully, file the appropriate application with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
When to refuse or challenge entry
You may reasonably refuse or challenge entry if the notice is missing required information, the reason is not permitted under the Act, or the entry looks like retaliation for asserting your legal rights. Always communicate your objection in writing and keep evidence of the notice and your response. If the situation cannot be fixed informally, the Board can decide whether the entry was lawful and order remedies.
Repairs, emergencies and tenant obligations
Landlords are responsible for maintaining a unit in a good state of repair and for addressing health and safety issues. Tenants should allow reasonable access for urgent repairs and arrange safe conditions when workers enter. For urgent situations, follow the landlord's instructions and keep records of any damage or communications; for non-urgent repairs, ask for a clear timeline and confirmation in writing.
For more on the division of responsibilities and practical tenant steps, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and guidance on urgent repairs at Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
FAQ
- Can a landlord enter my unit with only a phone call?
- No. Landlords generally must give written notice at least 24 hours before entry that states the date, time and reason.
- What if the notice is missing required information?
- Ask the landlord to fix the notice in writing, document your communications, and refuse entry if the notice remains invalid; you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if needed.
- Do I have to be home when the landlord comes with a 24-hour notice?
- No. A landlord may enter during the stated time window without you being present, but you should secure valuables and document the visit.
How-To
- Read the notice carefully and note whether it lists date, time and a clear reason.
- Document the notice: save a copy, take screenshots of messages and photograph any in-unit issues before entry.
- Contact your landlord in writing to confirm or reschedule the visit if the time is inconvenient or unsafe for you.
- If the landlord enters unlawfully or you experience retaliation, file the correct application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and include your documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must normally give at least 24 hours written notice with date, time window and reason.
- Keep clear records of notices, communications and any visits to support your case if a dispute arises.
- Try to resolve scheduling or privacy concerns with the landlord in writing before applying to the Board.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- Ontario: Renting and troubleshooting for tenants
