Can my landlord enter my rental home without notice in Saskatchewan?

No. Except for emergencies, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entry.

What should I do if my landlord enters without permission?

Document the incident, remind the landlord in writing about the law, and file a complaint with the ORT if needed.

Are there any situations where notice is not needed?

Only emergencies such as fire, flooding, or urgent repairs allow landlords to enter without notice.

Can I change the locks if my landlord comes in without notice?

No, you cannot change the locks without the landlord's consent. It could breach your rental agreement.

Where can I learn about my other tenant rights?

Visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan page for comprehensive information.

Landlord Entry Without Notice in Saskatchewan: Tenant Rights

Evictions Saskatchewan published June 13, 2025

If you're renting a home in Saskatchewan and your landlord shows up without notice, it can be stressful and confusing. Understanding your legal rights around landlord entry is crucial to feeling secure in your rental. This article explains what the law says, how tenants should respond, and the official steps for raising concerns with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental in Saskatchewan?

Your landlord cannot enter your rental unit without giving you proper written notice, except in rare emergencies. Saskatchewan law, specifically The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (section 28), governs entry rules:

Landlords must give at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit.
The notice must state the entry reason and the approximate time of entry.
Exceptions: Only emergencies (like a fire or burst pipe) allow immediate entry without notice.

Entry for repairs, inspections, or showings must follow these notice requirements. Entry at unreasonable times is not allowed unless you agree.

Is Your Privacy Protected?

Your right to privacy is protected by law. Repeated unauthorized entries could be considered harassment or a breach of your quiet enjoyment. Knowing your other Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan helps you understand what to expect during your tenancy.

What To Do If Your Landlord Enters Without Notice

If your landlord shows up unexpectedly, stay calm and document the situation:

Ask politely why they're entering and if they have provided the required notice
Document date, time, and details of the entry (take notes or photos if appropriate)
Follow up with a written request (email or letter) reminding your landlord of Saskatchewan's entry notice rules

This documentation is important if you escalate the issue or need proof later on.

Filing a Complaint: Steps for Tenants

If your landlord repeatedly violates entry rules or refuses to respect your rights, you have the right to file a formal complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), which oversees landlord-tenant disputes in Saskatchewan. Here’s how you can take action:

Step-by-Step: Resolving Unauthorized Entry Issues

Try to resolve informally: Communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing. Often, a reminder of the law can resolve the issue.
Apply to the ORT: If informal steps don't work, you can submit a formal "Application for an Order" (Form 6).
Hearing: The ORT may schedule a hearing where you and your landlord can present evidence.
Remedies: If your complaint is successful, the ORT can order compensation, require the landlord to follow the law, or even terminate the tenancy in severe cases.

Learn more about your overall tenant responsibilities and how landlord-tenant relations work in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Official Forms and Where to Find Them

Form 6: Application for an Order
- When to use: Use this form if your landlord enters without notice and you want official intervention through the ORT.
- How to use: Fill out the form with details of the violations, attach your written documentation, and submit it to the ORT office or online.
- Access Form 6 and instructions here

The Office of Residential Tenancies (“ORT”) is the provincial authority for rental disputes. Visit the official ORT website for updated process details.

Related Issues and Tenant-Protecting Tips

Protecting your right to privacy is only one aspect of tenancy. If issues like unauthorized entry continue, or if they come alongside problems like unsafe housing or harassment, make sure to review Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more guidance. Always keep written records of any communications and incidents for your safety.

Tip: If you feel unsafe or your landlord’s entry seems threatening, consider contacting local authorities and tenant advocacy services immediately.

If you are looking for a new place where you feel more secure, Browse apartments for rent in Canada to find listings that match your privacy and comfort needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can my landlord enter my rental home without notice in Saskatchewan?
No. Except in emergencies, your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit.
What should I do if my landlord enters without permission?
Document the incident, remind your landlord of the law in writing, and file a complaint with the ORT if the problem continues.
Are there any situations where notice is not needed?
Only in emergencies such as a fire, flood, or urgent repairs needed to prevent damage to the property.
Can I change the locks if my landlord comes in without notice?
No, not without your landlord’s permission. Changing the locks without consent could violate your lease or tenancy law.
Where can I learn about my other tenant rights?
Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for comprehensive information.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Landlords in Saskatchewan must give 24 hours’ written notice before entering your home, except in emergencies.
If unauthorized entry occurs, document the situation, communicate with your landlord, and use Form 6 to file an ORT complaint if needed.
Knowing your rights helps protect your privacy and maintain a safe rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Official Resource
Saskatchewan Housing and Renting (Provincial Guide)
Saskatchewan Tenants' Rights organizations or community legal clinics
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for a full rights overview