As an Ontario tenant, your right to privacy and a safe home environment has always been protected by law. But what happens when public health emergencies, like COVID-19, introduce new rules for landlord entry? This article outlines what tenants need to know about landlord entry during COVID-19 or under public health orders in Ontario.

Landlord Entry Rights and Tenant Privacy in Ontario

Under normal conditions, Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects tenants' privacy while also allowing landlords limited rights to enter the rental unit. Landlords must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entry, stating the reason and time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.), unless it is an emergency.

During public health emergencies like COVID-19, these rules are still in effect, but the government and rental tribunal have released specific guidance on health and safety, contact, and building access to protect all parties. For emergencies—such as urgent repairs, fire, or serious water leaks—entry is allowed without advance notice, provided safety protocols are followed.

How COVID-19 or Health Orders Affect Landlord Entry

When a health order is in place (including during declared emergencies), landlords must:

• Follow all public health directives concerning masks, distancing, and hygiene.
• Respect quarantine or self-isolation requirements; avoid entry unless necessary for urgent repairs or emergencies.
• Attempt to delay non-urgent visits, showings, or inspections if tenants are ill or high-risk.
• When entry is agreed or necessary, minimize contact, use proper personal protective equipment, and limit the number of people entering.

This approach helps balance safety with the landlord's need to carry out responsibilities. For more on basic landlord and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Exceptions: Emergencies and Urgent Repairs

Landlords are permitted by law to enter without notice when there is an emergency—such as a broken water pipe, fire, or other situations threatening the health or safety of anyone in the building.

Even during a health order or lockdown, landlords must protect the safety of tenants by carrying out necessary repairs. For details on your rights in such situations, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Notice of Entry: What Is Required?

Outside of emergencies, Ontario landlords are still required to give written notice at least 24 hours in advance. The notice must contain:

• The reason for entry
• Date of intended entry
• Time (must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.)

If a landlord fails to follow these requirements, tenants have the right to file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

What If You Are Sick or Isolating?

If you or someone in your household is sick or under a health order to isolate, communicate this to your landlord as soon as possible. Most landlords will work with you to reschedule non-urgent visits. If urgent entry is unavoidable, discuss precautions to keep everyone safe.

Good communication between tenants and landlords is especially important during public health emergencies for everyone's safety.

For more on your basic rights and laws, review Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Relevant Forms for Tenants

• Tenant Application – Form T2: Application About Tenant Rights (official link):
  Use this form if your landlord is entering illegally—such as without proper notice or violating isolation protocols. Example: If your landlord insists on entering without notice while someone in your unit is isolating due to COVID-19, complete Form T2 and submit it to the LTB.

Find detailed instructions and the form itself at the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario.

Your Health and Safety Rights

Your landlord has a responsibility to maintain a safe and healthy home, not only under normal law, but especially during a public health crisis. Learn more about your health and safety protections in rentals through Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If you feel uncomfortable with an entry request during a health order, explain your circumstances in writing. Landlords are expected to act reasonably and comply with both tenancy laws and public health rules.

Looking for a Safe New Home?

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FAQ: Landlord Entry and Health Orders in Ontario

1. Can my landlord enter my unit during a COVID-19 outbreak or lockdown?
   Only for urgent repairs, emergencies, or essential services. Otherwise, entry should be limited and always with proper written 24-hour notice.
2. Do landlords have to wear masks when entering during public health emergencies?
   Yes, landlords must follow all public health regulations, including mask-wearing, sanitizing, and physical distancing when required.
3. What if I am self-isolating or have COVID-19 symptoms?
   Inform your landlord immediately. Non-urgent entry should be rescheduled, and urgent entry must be handled with extreme caution and adherence to health guidelines.
4. What can I do if my landlord enters without notice during a health order?
   You may file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T2: Application About Tenant Rights.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as an Ontario tenant?
   Visit Tenant Rights in Ontario for more detailed information and links.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must still give 24 hours' written notice for entry except in emergencies.
• During COVID-19 or health orders, extra precautions are required for everyone's safety.
• Tenants can file complaints if landlords break the rules.

Open communication and understanding your rights help keep everyone safe and reduce conflict, even in challenging times.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Information on rights, forms, and application process
• Ontario Government: Renting in Ontario - Your Rights
• Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario: Free legal advice and tenant support
• For health-specific questions, contact your local Public Health Unit

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, see full text on Ontario.ca
2. Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board COVID-19 and Health Order Guidance: Official Notices
3. Tenant Forms (Form T2): LTB Forms

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