Tenants often worry about contractors entering their rental unit without proper notice or reason. In Ontario, renters have specific protections under provincial rules about entry, repairs and privacy that balance a landlord's right to maintain the property with a tenant's right to quiet enjoyment. This article explains when contractors may legally enter, what notice is required, how to document an improper entry, and practical steps renters can take — including who to contact, what forms might be used, and where to file an application if needed. The aim is to give tenants clear, straightforward guidance so they can protect their safety, privacy and housing stability while staying within Ontario's legal framework.
When contractors can legally enter
Under Ontario rules, landlords (or people they hire) may be allowed to enter a rental unit for specific reasons such as repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers. Entry must be lawful and reasonable; the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 provides the legal framework and exceptions for emergencies.[1]
- To carry out repairs or maintenance requested by the tenant or required for safety or habitability (for example, fixing a leaking pipe).
- To address an emergency that threatens life or property, such as a major water leak or a gas smell.
- To show the unit to prospective tenants or purchasers with proper notice or consent.
- For routine inspections when the lease or law permits and proper advance notice has been given.
For guidance on who is responsible for repairs and how they should be handled, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for practical expectations and examples.
Notice and timing landlords must provide
Except in emergencies, landlords generally must give advance written notice before entry that includes a time range and the reason for entry. The notice requirement is intended to protect tenant privacy while allowing necessary access for maintenance and safety.
- Notice must specify the time or a reasonable window for entry, typically at least 24 hours when not an emergency.
- Notice should state the purpose (for example, "plumbing repair" or "unit showing") so tenants can decide whether to be present.
- Keep copies of notices and any correspondence to document compliance or repeated problems.
What to do if a contractor enters improperly
If a contractor enters without proper notice or for no lawful reason, tenants should document the incident, tell the landlord the entry was improper, and request that it not happen again. If the problem continues, tenants can seek remedies through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).[2]
- Document the date, time, names of contractors, what was done, and photos or video if safe to take.
- Contact your landlord in writing to raise the issue and request written confirmation of how they will prevent improper entries.
- If the landlord does not stop, consider filing an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to seek an order preventing unlawful entry or compensation.
For emergency entry situations and immediate safety concerns, tenants can call emergency services or their local municipal emergency number.
If you are considering relocating because of unsafe or repeated improper entries, you can also search for other rentals. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare options in your area.
Official forms and how tenants use them
Tenants who need formal remedies at the Landlord and Tenant Board will use application forms available from the LTB. Commonly used resources include the general application for tenant rights and the LTB forms and guides page where up-to-date form names and numbers are posted.[3]
- Application about Tenant Rights (Form T2) — used when a tenant asks the LTB to resolve issues such as unlawful entry, lack of repairs, or breaches of the RTA; for example, a tenant files a T2 when a landlord repeatedly allows contractors to enter without the required notice.
- Other LTB application forms — see the official LTB forms page for the correct form number and instructions before filing; the forms page explains fees, timelines and how to submit.
FAQ
- Can my landlord send contractors into my unit without telling me?
- Except in emergencies, landlords usually must give advance written notice stating the time and purpose; random, unexplained entries are generally not allowed.
- What counts as an emergency that allows immediate entry?
- An emergency is a situation that threatens life or property, such as a major flood, fire risk, or gas leak; in those cases, entry without prior notice is typically permitted to protect safety.
- How should I document an improper entry?
- Record date and time, take photos or video if safe, save any notices or messages, and keep a dated log of conversations and emails with the landlord or contractor.
- Where do I file a complaint if the landlord won’t stop improper entries?
- You can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to request orders stopping the behaviour or seeking compensation; follow the LTB forms and filing instructions.
How-To
- Document the event: note date/time, take photos, and save any notices or messages.
- Contact the landlord in writing to describe the issue and request they stop or clarify why the entry occurred.
- If unresolved, use the correct LTB application form (see the LTB forms page) and submit your evidence to the Landlord and Tenant Board.
- Attend any scheduled hearing or mediation with your documentation and be prepared to explain the timeline and impact on your safety or privacy.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants in Ontario have legal protections that limit when landlords or contractors may enter a unit.
- Document every incident and keep written records to support any complaint or LTB application.
- The Landlord and Tenant Board provides forms and processes for tenants seeking remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- How to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board
- Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
