Top 50 Questions: Privacy & Landlord Entry Rights (Ontario)

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Ontario published June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
Can my landlord enter my rental unit without notice?
Generally, no. Landlords must give 24 hours written notice before entry, except in emergencies or if you agree to shorter notice.
What is considered an emergency for landlord entry?
Emergencies include situations like fire, flood, or urgent repairs necessary to prevent damage.
How much notice must my landlord give before entering?
Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering your unit.
Does the notice have to be in writing?
Yes, Ontario law requires written notice, which can be delivered in person, by mail, or by posting on your door.
What information must the landlord notice include?
The notice must state the reason for entry, date, time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.), and specify who will enter.
Can a landlord enter if I am not home?
Yes, with proper notice, the landlord can enter whether or not you are present.
Can I refuse entry if I feel the notice isn't valid?
If notice requirements are not met, you can refuse entry. However, emergencies override this rule.
Does the landlord need my permission to show the unit to potential tenants?
No, but they must give you 24 hours written notice before showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers.
During what hours can my landlord enter the unit?
Between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless it’s an emergency or you agree otherwise.
Can my landlord take photos or videos inside my unit?
Landlords can take photos only for legitimate purposes, such as advertising for prospective tenants, and should provide notice.
What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?
Document the incident and consider contacting the Landlord and Tenant Board to file a complaint.
Can a landlord enter for repairs or maintenance?
Yes, if they give you 24 hours written notice and specify the reason.
What if a landlord repeatedly enters without notice?
You can file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T2: Application about Tenant Rights.
Can a landlord give notice by email or text?
Only if you have agreed in writing to receive notices electronically. Otherwise, written notice must be provided in person or by mail.
Is my landlord allowed to keep a key to my apartment?
Yes, landlords may keep a key but cannot enter without proper notice except in emergencies.
Does my landlord have to knock before entering?
Yes, as a courtesy, landlords should announce themselves before entering after proper notice.
Can my landlord show my unit to buyers or appraisers?
Yes, with 24 hours written notice, for activities like real estate showings, appraisals, or insurance purposes.
Can I change the locks to prevent landlord entry?
Not without your landlord’s permission. Altering or changing locks without consent is a violation of the Residential Tenancies Act.
Must a landlord provide notice for pest control or repairs?
Yes, they must give 24 hours written notice unless you agree or there is an emergency.
What can I do if the landlord repeatedly enters without respecting the law?
Document incidents and file a T2 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Are there times when the landlord doesn’t need notice to enter?
Yes, in emergencies, if you agree to shorter notice, or if housekeeping services are provided under the tenancy agreement at a fixed time.
Can I ask to reschedule landlord entry to a more convenient time?
You can request, but the landlord is not legally required to accommodate unless you both agree.
Can landlord enter to inspect or check smoke detectors?
Yes, with 24 hours written notice unless there’s an emergency.
Is my privacy protected under Ontario law?
Yes, your privacy is protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
Can a landlord install cameras in common areas?
Cameras may be allowed in common areas, but not inside your private rental unit.
How do I make a complaint about privacy violations?
File a T2: Application about Tenant Rights with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Do I have to let the landlord in for repairs if I disagree they are needed?
Yes, as long as proper notice is given and the repairs are legitimate, you must allow entry.
Are landlords allowed to enter to check for cleanliness?
Not solely for cleanliness unless stated in the lease or with your consent and 24-hour notice.
Can a landlord enter when I am at work?
Yes, landlords can enter during the stated time window if proper notice is given, regardless of your presence.
What if I have pets – do I have to notify the landlord for entry?
It’s best to inform your landlord about pets for safety, but you are not legally required to do so.
Can my landlord enter my bedroom if I rent only one room?
Landlords must still provide notice before entering any part of your rental space, including bedrooms.
What if my landlord tries to enter with little or no notice?
You may deny entry unless there is an emergency or you agree to the short notice.
Does my landlord have to provide ID when entering?
It's not legally required, but you can request identification for your security.
Can the landlord send a property manager or contractor instead?
Yes, the notice must state who will enter, which can be the landlord, their agent, or contractors.
Can the landlord enter on weekends?
Yes, as long as the entry is between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. and with sufficient notice.
Am I entitled to notice if I rent a room in my landlord’s home?
Yes, notice is still required unless you share a kitchen or bathroom with your landlord, in which case the rules may be different.
Can my landlord take photos of my belongings?
Only if necessary for advertising or repairs. They must respect your privacy.
Is there a form to report privacy violations?
Use Form T2: Application about Tenant Rights to report violations. Find it here.
What happens after I file a T2 application?
The Landlord and Tenant Board reviews your application and schedules a hearing. Find more info here.
Can I have someone present during landlord’s entry?
Yes, you may have someone present, but this is not required by law.
Can the landlord conduct random inspections?
Inspections require 24 hours written notice and a valid reason, not just for random checks.
Do I get compensation if privacy rights are violated?
Possibly. The Board may order your landlord to pay you money or take other actions if your rights are violated.
Can a landlord ask for entry for insurance reasons?
Yes, with 24 hours written notice, your landlord can enter for insurance inspections.
Can the landlord enter to check for illegal activity?
They need to follow the normal notice rules. Entry for suspected illegal activity still requires proper notice unless it’s an emergency.
Is my mail or personal information protected?
Yes. Your landlord cannot open your mail or access your personal information without consent.
Can landlord access areas I don't rent?
Landlords can access common areas or any unit with notice, but not your exclusive rental area without following legal notice procedures.
Is written notice needed for each visit, or one for multiple entries?
Separate notice is required for each entry unless you agree in writing to ongoing scheduled visits.
Do living arrangements like shared housing affect entry rights?
Yes, rules may differ if you share a kitchen or bathroom with your landlord; review the RTA for specifics.
What legislation protects my privacy as a tenant?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, governs tenant privacy and landlord entry in Ontario. Read it here.
What is the name of the board handling these disputes?
The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario handles privacy and entry rights disputes.

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

Related Articles