If someone from the landlord's side asks to enter your rental unit and brings police or bailiffs, it can be stressful and confusing. This guide explains what Prince Edward Island renters and tenants should know about notice, lawful entry, and when police or bailiffs may lawfully attend. You will learn practical steps to stay safe, how to document the event, when it is appropriate to call police, and where to get official help or file disputes with the Residential Tenancies Board[1]. If you are facing an emergency repair or an urgent safety issue, the article also explains how those situations differ from routine landlord entry and what forms you might need to file a complaint.
What it means when police or bailiffs attend
Police or bailiffs attending a landlord entry can occur for different reasons: to assist with a lawful eviction order, to enforce a civil judgement, or to respond to a reported crime or safety concern. In Prince Edward Island the governing legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act[2], and the official body that handles tenancy disputes is the Residential Tenancies Board[1]. Landlords generally must follow the Act and give proper notice before entering, except in narrowly defined emergency situations.
When you should consider calling police
- If there is an immediate threat to your safety or someone is being assaulted, call 911 right away.
- If someone is trying to force entry without a court order or proper notice, contact police to report an illegal eviction or break-in.
- If the police are present and you are unsure of their authority, politely ask for identification and the reason for attendance and document names, badge numbers, and time.
What landlords must do before entry in PEI
Except for emergencies, landlords must provide proper written notice and a lawful reason to enter. Common lawful reasons include inspections, repairs, scheduled showings, or to carry out an order of the Residential Tenancies Board[1]. If you suspect a landlord is not following notice rules, you can file an application or complaint with the Board and reference the Residential Tenancies Act[2]. For forms related to complaints, notices, and applications, see the official forms page[3].
What to do in the moment
- If you feel unsafe, remove yourself and any household members from immediate danger and call emergency services.
- Ask officers or bailiffs why they are there and whether they have a court order or warrant; request identification.
- Document the event: write down names, times, what was said, and take photos if it is safe to do so.
- If you receive a written notice or order, keep the original and consider filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Board if you believe your rights were breached.
Rights and remedies after attendance
If you believe a landlord, police, or bailiffs acted improperly, you can pursue remedies through the Residential Tenancies Board[1] or seek legal advice. The Board can hear disputes about illegal entry, failure to give notice, or improper eviction attempts. As a practical example: if a landlord entered without proper notice and took or damaged belongings, document the damage, keep receipts, and file an application with the Board using the official forms[3].
FAQ
- Can a landlord bring police or bailiffs to my door to force entry?
- Police or bailiffs can only force entry with a valid court order or warrant. Absent that, landlords must follow notice rules in the Residential Tenancies Act and cannot lawfully force entry.
- Do I have to let the police into my unit if the landlord asks?
- You can ask police to show a warrant or court order. If police have lawful authority, they may enter; if not, you can refuse and later report the incident to the Residential Tenancies Board.
- What if I feel pressured to sign documents during an attendance?
- Do not sign anything you do not understand. Politely refuse and request time to read documents or get advice; document the interaction and file a complaint if needed.
How-To
- Stay calm and prioritize safety: if threatened, call 911 and leave the premises if possible.
- Ask attending officers or bailiffs to state their authority and show identification or any court order.
- Record details while they are fresh: names, times, statements, photos of any damage, and keep copies of notices.
- File the appropriate complaint or application with the Residential Tenancies Board using the official forms and follow Board instructions for hearings.
- If you need temporary housing or to find another rental, consider searching listings and resources such as Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board - Prince Edward Island
- Residential Tenancies Act - Prince Edward Island
- Official tenancy forms and applications - Prince Edward Island
