With smart locks becoming more common in Ontario rental homes, many tenants have questions about privacy, security, and their rights. If your landlord proposes to install a smart lock, or if you've discovered one on your door, it’s important to know how Ontario’s laws protect you.
What Are Smart Locks and Why Do Landlords Install Them?
Smart locks are electronic door locks that use digital keys, codes, mobile apps, or key cards instead of traditional physical keys. Landlords may choose smart locks to reduce the risk of lost keys, make managing units easier, or improve building security. However, for tenants, these systems raise questions about privacy and access control.
Ontario Tenant Rights: Locks and Privacy Laws
In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) governs changes to locks and tenant privacy. The law states:
- Neither the landlord nor the tenant can change the locks without the other party’s consent, except by order of the Landlord and Tenant Board.
- Landlords must provide tenants with a way to access their unit at all times. If a smart lock is installed, tenants must receive access (digital key, code, etc.) right away.
- Both landlords and tenants are prohibited from making it harder for the other party to access the property than before, unless the Board says otherwise.
Landlords may request to install smart locks, but cannot do so without proper notice and continued tenant access. Your privacy and quiet enjoyment of your home remain protected under Ontario law.
Notice of Entry: When Can a Landlord Access Your Unit?
Even with smart locks installed, a landlord's right to enter your rental unit does not change. They can only enter under certain legal circumstances, such as:
- Emergencies (no notice required)
- With at least 24 hours written notice for repairs, inspections, or showings
- If you agree to entry on shorter notice
Written notice must include the reason for entry, date, and time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.). You can learn more about both landlord and tenant duties by reviewing Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Who Gets Access? Sharing Codes, Apps, or Keys
If your landlord installs a smart lock system, you should:
- Get a personal digital key, code, or app login – not a shared code with the landlord
- Be able to access your home at any time, even if your phone is lost or dead
- Request backup access (like a physical key or building staff access) in case of technical issues
What Forms or Actions Should Tenants Take?
- L2: Application to End a Tenancy and Evict a Tenant (used by landlords, not tenants) – but tenants can respond if they are accused of changing locks without consent.
- T2: Application about Tenant Rights – tenants should use this form if their landlord has changed locks or installed smart locks without proper consent, or has interfered with their reasonable enjoyment or privacy. Download the official T2 form
For practical help filing a complaint or T2 application, tenants can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or a local legal clinic.
Smart Locks and Security: What If There’s a Technical Failure?
Smart locks can fail due to technical issues or power outages. Landlords must provide a reliable way to access your unit at all times. If you are ever locked out due to a faulty smart lock, it is the landlord's responsibility to resolve the problem promptly.
If you’re moving into a new rental, ask about the type of locks and how access works as part of your initial inspection and orientation. For broader topics about move-in procedures, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
Can a Landlord Track You With a Smart Lock?
Some smart locks keep electronic logs of entries and exits. Under Ontario privacy law, landlords must not use this information to harass or monitor tenants’ comings and goings. If you feel your privacy is being violated, keep records and seek advice from the LTB or a tenant advocacy organization.
If you have privacy or access problems due to smart locks, you may find it helpful to refer to the Tenant Rights in Ontario page for a detailed overview of your legal protections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my landlord install a smart lock without my consent?
No. Under Ontario law, landlords cannot change or upgrade locks without tenant consent unless ordered by the Landlord and Tenant Board. - What should I do if I'm locked out by a faulty smart lock?
Contact your landlord immediately—they are responsible for restoring your access promptly. Keep a record of any delay or hardship caused. - Do I have to share my smart lock code with the landlord?
You should have a unique code or key. Landlords should not require you to share your private code, but they can have their own method to access the unit for legal reasons. - What if the landlord is tracking my comings and goings?
This could violate your privacy rights. Document any concerns and consider submitting a T2 Application about Tenant Rights to the Landlord and Tenant Board. - Who is responsible for smart lock maintenance?
The landlord. Ensuring continued access and functionality of locks is part of their responsibilities under Ontario law.
Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants
- Landlords cannot install or change smart locks without your consent or an order from the Board.
- You must always have access to your home—if locked out due to a smart lock, it is the landlord's duty to help.
- Your privacy stays protected even with new technology.
- If issues arise, keep records and know you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board with a T2 form.
Understanding your rights helps ensure your home remains secure and private, regardless of new lock technology.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Ontario) – Information, applications, and contact options.
- Ontario Standard Lease Guide – Key info about tenancy agreements and rules for access and privacy.
- Local legal clinics (find one via Legal Aid Ontario) – Free tenant advice and support filings.
- For a comprehensive outline of tenant laws, view Tenant Rights in Ontario.
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Read the full Act
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario): LTB Website
- T2 Application About Tenant Rights: Download form
- Ontario Standard Lease guide: Official Guide
