Landlord Entry Rules During Health Orders in Saskatchewan

Understanding your privacy rights regarding landlord entry is especially important during times like COVID-19 or when health orders are in effect. In Saskatchewan, tenants have the right to live undisturbed in their rental units. This article explains what landlords can and cannot do under emergency health orders, what notice is required, and steps you can take if your rights are breached under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)^[1].

Landlord Entry: General Rules in Saskatchewan

Outside of special circumstances like COVID-19, landlords must respect your privacy. Saskatchewan's Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) oversees rental issues.

• Landlords typically must provide 24 hours’ written notice to enter, stating the reason (e.g., repairs, inspections).
• Entry must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., and not on statutory holidays unless you agree.
• Landlords can enter without notice only in emergencies (like fires or urgent repairs).

Review your rental agreement to understand specific terms. For a broader overview, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Changes During COVID-19 and Health Orders

During a declared public health emergency—such as the COVID-19 pandemic—Saskatchewan implemented additional safety protocols that may continue under future health orders:

• Landlords must comply with any health-related government directives, such as mask mandates, social distancing, or limiting entry.
• Tenants can request reasonable accommodations if they are sick, self-isolating, or at higher health risk—for example, by asking to reschedule non-urgent inspections or repairs.
• Entry for non-urgent reasons may be postponed or require tenant consent during high-risk periods.

If you feel your safety or privacy is at risk, you have the right to discuss alternate arrangements. Landlords should not enter without clear notice or in a way that breaches health guidelines.

Example of Written Notice (Form RTB-12)

• Form Name: Notice of Entry (Form RTB-12)
• When to Use: A landlord completes this to give the required written notice before entering a rental unit.
• Where to Get It: Download from the Saskatchewan government site
• How to Use: Landlords must provide tenants with this completed form at least 24 hours prior to entry, except in emergencies.

Emergency Situations and Repairs

Some repairs cannot wait, such as flooding or heating failures. In these emergencies, landlords can enter right away to fix the problem—your safety comes first.

If health orders limit contact, landlords and tenants should coordinate to minimize risk, possibly arranging temporary accommodation for major repairs.

For more on urgent repairs and your rights, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Health and Safety Issues Related to Entry

Your landlord has a duty to ensure health and safety in your building, which may include safe cleaning protocols or providing notice about potentially infectious individuals (without revealing private health details). Learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What If Your Landlord Breaks the Rules?

If your landlord enters without proper notice, fails to follow public health directions, or you feel unsafe, you can:

• Document what happened (date, time, reason for entry)
• Contact your landlord to discuss your concerns
• If unresolved, file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)

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FAQs: Landlord Entry During Health Orders in Saskatchewan

1. Can my landlord enter my rental unit during a health order or outbreak?
   Yes, but they must still provide 24 hours’ written notice for non-emergency entry, follow any public health directives in place, and respect your right to postpone non-urgent visits.
2. What if I am in isolation or high-risk for illness?
   Inform your landlord and make arrangements for any necessary work to be delayed or conducted safely. Landlords are expected to be considerate of health-related needs during such times.
3. What should a written notice of entry include?
   The notice must include the reason for entry, the date and time frame, and must be delivered at least 24 hours in advance. The official form is RTB-12, Notice of Entry.
4. Who do I contact if my landlord enters without proper notice?
   You can first try to resolve it with your landlord. If unresolved, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies to make a formal complaint.
5. Are there exceptions for true emergencies?
   Yes, in urgent situations like fire, flooding, or severe maintenance emergencies, landlords can enter immediately without notice to protect occupants and property.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Landlords must give proper notice for entry, even during a health order.
• Emergency repairs can be done without notice, but only when truly urgent.
• You have the right to reasonable health accommodations and privacy. Know your rights and contact ORT if you have concerns.

Stay informed and proactive; understanding these rules can help maintain both your safety and your landlord-tenant relationship.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – File a complaint or get guidance on entry rules
• Government of Saskatchewan – Renting information
• Saskatchewan Tenant Hotline: 1-888-215-2222
• Learn more about your rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

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