24-Hour Notice Entry Exceptions: Saskatchewan Tenant Guide

For tenants in Saskatchewan, privacy in your rental home is protected by law. Landlords must normally give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering your unit, but there are specific exceptions where less notice is legally allowed. Knowing these rules helps you protect your privacy and respond confidently if a landlord requests entry.

Understanding Landlord Entry: The 24-Hour Notice Rule

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out the rules for landlord access in Saskatchewan. Except for emergencies or certain exceptions, landlords must give tenants written notice at least 24 hours before entering a rental unit.^[1]

• Notice must be in writing (email, text, or paper note are accepted if agreed in writing).
• The notice must state the date, time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.), and reason for entry.

Generally, landlords can enter for repairs, inspecting the property, or showing it to prospective tenants—but only with proper notice unless an exception applies.

What Are the 24-Hour Notice Exceptions?

There are important times when Saskatchewan law does not require 24-hour notice before entry. Here’s when your landlord can enter your unit without giving 24 hours’ notice:

• Emergencies: If there’s an urgent risk to health, safety, or property (like fire, flood, or gas leak), landlords can enter immediately.
• Tenant Consent: If you invite or allow your landlord in, no advance notice is required.
• Abandonment: If the unit appears abandoned, the landlord may enter to confirm.
• Regular Cleaning or Services (in special rental types): In places like care homes or student housing where cleaning/services are included, the rental agreement may permit more frequent entry—check your lease for details.

If your landlord enters without proper cause, and not for a legal exception, you may have grounds for a complaint or application to the provincial tribunal.

Emergency Entry Example

If your landlord smells smoke or sees flooding under your door, they can enter immediately to protect you and the property.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Saskatchewan does not require a specific government-issued form for landlord entry notice. However, for disputes about privacy or improper entry, tenants can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for a hearing.

• Application for Hearing (Form 5): Use this form if your landlord entered improperly and you want the tribunal’s intervention.
• Download Form 5 here
• Example: If your landlord keeps entering without 24 hours' notice when it is not an emergency and you haven’t agreed, you can complete Form 5 and file with the ORT to request a stop to the behaviour.

What to Do If Entry Rules Are Not Followed

If your landlord enters unlawfully or violates your privacy, you have a right to address it:

• Talk to your landlord first and explain your concerns, if you feel comfortable.
• Keep a record of each incident (date, time, reason given, and if notice was provided).
• If issues persist, consider filing an Application for Hearing (Form 5) with the ORT.

Related Tenant Responsibilities and Rights

Understanding landlord entry is just one part of tenant rights. For a deeper look at your rights, responsibilities, and rent payment obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Looking for a place to rent or want more information about Saskatchewan housing law? Visit Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings or see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for a provincial overview.

FAQ: Saskatchewan Landlord Entry Exceptions

1. Do landlords ever need less than 24 hours’ notice to enter in Saskatchewan?
   Yes—if there’s an emergency, such as a fire or urgent repair, or if the tenant consents, landlords do not need to give 24 hours’ notice.
2. What is considered an emergency for immediate entry?
   An emergency includes anything posing immediate risk to health, safety, or property, such as flooding, fire, or gas leaks.
3. What can tenants do if a landlord keeps entering unlawfully?
   Keep detailed records and, if the problem persists, file an Application for Hearing (Form 5) with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).
4. Does the 24-hour notice rule apply to repairs and inspections?
   Yes, except in emergencies or if you give permission, landlords must give 24 hours’ written notice for repairs and inspections.
5. Can tenancy agreements change entry rights?
   Agreements can allow more entry (like regular cleaning in student housing), but cannot remove your right to privacy or allow unlawful entry.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering, except in clear emergencies, abandonment, or with your consent.
• If your privacy is violated, you can file an Application for Hearing with the ORT.
• Always document incidents and review your rental agreement for any additional entry terms—especially in specialized housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Handles tenant and landlord disputes and applications. Phone: 1-888-215-2222.
• Saskatchewan Government – Renting a Home: Official guide for tenants and landlords.
• For more about tenancy rules, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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1. "Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)" – Full text of Saskatchewan's tenancy law
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Tenant dispute resolution info
3. Application for Hearing (Form 5, Saskatchewan): Download Form 5

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