Can my landlord install a camera inside my rental unit?

No, landlords are not allowed to install cameras inside your private living space without your consent in Prince Edward Island.

Does my landlord need to give notice before accessing smart devices or using a digital lock to enter?

Yes. Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering, even with smart technology, unless it's an emergency.

What should I do if my landlord asks for my email or social media passwords?

You can refuse. Landlords in PEI may not require access to your private digital accounts as a rental condition.

Where can I find the form to complain about a privacy violation?

Tenants can use Application by Tenant (Form 2) from the Residential Tenancy Office to report privacy breaches.

Tenant Digital Privacy Rights in Prince Edward Island Rentals

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Prince Edward Island published June 19, 2025

As technology becomes more central in our homes, tenants in Prince Edward Island have new rights and concerns regarding digital privacy. From smart locks to surveillance cameras and digital requests for personal information, it's vital to understand the limits on a landlord’s access to your private life. This article outlines what protections exist under Prince Edward Island’s tenancy laws and gives you practical advice for asserting your rights over your digital space.

Understanding Digital Overreach: What Counts as Invasion of Privacy?

Digital overreach refers to situations where a landlord tries to collect, monitor, or access your private information or activities without proper legal grounds. Examples include:

Installing or accessing security cameras inside your unit without consent
Requesting personal digital data (like social media, email) as a rental condition
Entering your home using smart locks or remote technology without proper notice

Protecting your right to quiet enjoyment—including your digital privacy—is supported by the Rental of Residential Property Act (Prince Edward Island’s main tenancy law) ^[1].

What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

Entry and Surveillance

Landlords generally may not install cameras inside your rental unit or monitor your online activities. They can collect personal information strictly to manage their property (for example, basic contact information or references), but they must:

Limit the type of data collected to what is necessary
Store tenant data securely
Give notice before entering your unit, including remote or digital entry

Any entry to your unit—whether by traditional keys or digital access—still requires at least 24 hours’ written notice, except for emergencies.

Smart Technology in Your Rental

With the rise of internet-connected locks, thermostats, and appliances, it’s important to:

Change passwords and access codes when you move in, if possible
Clarify in writing what the landlord can and cannot control remotely

If your landlord wants to access smart devices while you’re a tenant, they must follow the same rules as for physical entry.

Is Your Privacy at Risk? Recognizing Unreasonable Requests

While landlords can ask for information to complete background checks or verify identity, asking for your social media passwords or access to your online accounts is almost never appropriate. If you feel uncomfortable with any digital request, ask for written clarification or contact the Residential Tenancy Office for advice.

Forms for Addressing Privacy Concerns

Application by Tenant (Form 2): Use this form if you believe your landlord is violating your privacy rights, such as installing unauthorized cameras or entering your unit without consent.
View Application by Tenant (PDF)
Example: If a landlord installs a camera in your living room, you can file this form to request an official order for its removal.

File Form 2 with the Residential Tenancy Office. The Office will investigate and, if warranted, can issue an order for the landlord to comply.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant

Your right to privacy is protected under PEI’s Rental of Residential Property Act. Tenants also have a duty not to use rental property for illegal activities or prevent landlords from accessing in emergencies.

For a broader understanding of how landlord-tenant responsibilities are structured, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Tip: Clearly state your privacy expectations (such as no in-unit cameras) when signing your lease and keep all agreements in writing.

Helpful Actions You Can Take

Politely ask for details, in writing, if you’re concerned about digital devices in your rental
Request the landlord’s digital privacy policy if smart devices are installed
Contact the Residential Tenancy Office for guidance or to file a complaint

Understanding the rules early prevents issues when renewing your lease or moving out. Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

FAQ: Tenant Digital Privacy in PEI

Can my landlord install a camera inside my rental unit?
No, landlords cannot place surveillance cameras inside your private living space without your written consent. Cameras in common areas (like building entrances) are allowed for safety, but not indoors where you live.
Does my landlord have to give notice before accessing smart devices or entering with a digital lock?
Yes. Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, regardless of whether they use physical keys or smart locks—except in emergencies.
What do I do if my landlord requests my social media or email passwords?
You can refuse such requests. Landlords may not require access to your private digital accounts as a condition of renting.
Where can I find official forms to file a privacy complaint?
Use the Application by Tenant (Form 2) from the Residential Tenancy Office to report privacy violations.
How do I prove that my digital privacy has been violated?
Save all written communications, take photos or screenshots of devices or notices, and submit these as evidence when filing your application with the Residential Tenancy Office.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Office (government resource for tenant-landlord disputes in PEI)
PEI Tenant Support Centre (contact for advocacy and support)
Rental of Residential Property Act (read the legislation)
Explore Houseme - your rental solution in Canada for safe rental options

Rental of Residential Property Act (Prince Edward Island)
Residential Tenancy Office
Application by Tenant (Form 2)