When can police enter a rental unit?
Police can enter without a warrant only in emergencies when someone is in danger, evidence is being destroyed, or there is an ongoing crime. Otherwise police need a warrant or the tenant's consent. Landlords do not have the power to force police to evict a tenant or enter on their behalf—evictions are handled by the Landlord and Tenant Board.[1] The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets rules for landlord entry and eviction processes; criminal police powers come from federal law and the Criminal Code.[2]
What to do if police or a landlord asks to enter
If someone asks to enter your unit, take calm, practical steps to protect your privacy and legal position.
- Call 911 if you or others are in immediate danger.
- Ask officers for identification, their name, and the reason for entry.
- Request to see a warrant or court order if they claim legal authority to enter.
- Document names, badge numbers, times, and take photos or notes when safe to do so.
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or a legal clinic for next steps if a landlord is improperly trying to evict you.[1]
Can landlords use police to evict tenants?
No. Landlords must follow the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 process to end a tenancy and cannot use police as a shortcut to remove a tenant. If a landlord calls police to enforce an eviction without an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board, officers will usually decline to act as a civil enforcement agent and will advise both parties to seek a legal remedy through the Board.[1]
Official forms and how tenants use them
Tenants may need official forms when responding to claims or starting their own application to the Landlord and Tenant Board. The LTB maintains the forms and instructions on its website.[3]
- Application to the Landlord and Tenant Board — used when a landlord files to end a tenancy or a tenant files a complaint; for example, a tenant might file if a landlord seeks eviction without following the RTA.
- Tenant response forms — used to respond to a landlord's application; for example, a tenant would file a response to contest an eviction hearing or provide evidence.
Finding alternative housing quickly
If you need to find a new place because of safety concerns or an urgent eviction, consider local listings and rental platforms. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to search for suitable options with map tools and filters.
FAQ
- Can police legally evict me from my rental unit?
- No. Police do not execute civil evictions; only the Landlord and Tenant Board can order eviction under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
- Do landlords need notice before entering my unit?
- Yes. Under Ontario rules landlords generally must give proper written notice before entering for a scheduled inspection or repairs unless there is an emergency.
- What should I do if police enter without a warrant and I feel it was improper?
- Stay calm, ask for identification, document the interaction, and contact legal help or the Landlord and Tenant Board to understand options for complaints or remedies.
How-To
- Assess immediate safety and call 911 if you or others are at risk.
- Ask officers for identification and request to see a warrant or legal document authorizing entry.
- Contact a legal clinic or the Landlord and Tenant Board for advice about next steps.
- Record details, gather evidence, and keep copies of any notices or forms you receive.
Key Takeaways
- Police need a warrant, consent, or an emergency reason to enter most rental units.
- Landlords cannot use police to carry out evictions; the Landlord and Tenant Board handles eviction orders.
- Document interactions, save notices, and seek legal or board support when your rights are at risk.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) — hearings, forms, and how to apply
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — official legislation
- Renting in Ontario: your rights — provincial tenant guidance
