Can my landlord monitor my entry or exit remotely in Saskatchewan?

No, landlords cannot track or monitor your entry/exit without a legitimate reason and proper notice. Monitoring inside your private unit is not allowed.

Are cameras allowed in hallways or entrances of apartment buildings?

Yes, cameras may be allowed in common areas for security, but there must be signage, and they cannot target individual units.

What can I do if I suspect my landlord is tracking me with a smart lock?

First, communicate your concerns in writing. If the issue persists, file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies using the Application for Hearing form.

Is written notice always required for landlord entry?

Yes, landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice, except for emergencies or if you consent otherwise.

Remote Monitoring by Landlords: Saskatchewan Tenant Privacy Rights

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Saskatchewan published: June 19, 2025

If you’re a tenant in Saskatchewan, you may be concerned about your privacy at home—especially with new technologies, such as smart locks, cameras in common areas, or keyless entry systems. This article explains what landlords can—and cannot—monitor remotely, your right to privacy under Saskatchewan law, and what steps you can take if you feel your privacy is being violated. We’ll cover official forms, legal protections, and where to get help so you can feel secure in your rental home.

Understanding Your Right to Privacy in Saskatchewan Rentals

In Saskatchewan, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects tenants’ right to privacy inside their homes¹. While landlords do have certain rights to enter rental units, there are strict rules around how (and when) this can be done, especially with electronic monitoring or keyless locks.

Landlords generally cannot monitor when you enter/leave your private rental unit without consent or a legal basis.
Use of entry monitoring devices in common areas may be permitted for safety, but not inside your personal living space.
Saskatchewan’s legislation requires notice and limits landlord entry for non-emergency reasons.

Remote Entry Monitoring and Smart Devices

Smart locks, security keypads, or access cards are more common in Saskatchewan rentals, especially in newer apartment buildings. These technologies may log usage data, creating concerns about when and how landlords access or record your comings and goings.

A landlord is not allowed to monitor or track your entry/exit times for personal reasons or to “check up” on you.
If smart locks or other remote systems are used, it should be for legitimate building security purposes only—not for surveillance.
Landlords cannot record audio or video inside your private unit without your explicit consent.

Landlords must also respect your right to “quiet enjoyment” of your home. This means you should be able to use your rental free from unnecessary intrusion or observation. For a summary of the shared obligations between landlords and tenants, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

When Can a Landlord Legally Enter or Monitor Your Unit?

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan), landlords must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering your unit—unless it’s an emergency or you consent to a different arrangement. Legal notice should state the reason, date, and time of entry. Entry for repairs, inspections, or showings must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

If your building has common-area cameras or security entry, there must be signage notifying tenants.
Any monitoring or recording outside your private apartment must not target individual units specifically.

What If You Suspect Unauthorized Monitoring?

If you believe your landlord is remotely monitoring your entry or using smart technology to track your movements without a clear, legal reason, you have options. Your privacy is a protected right in Saskatchewan. Start by documenting your concerns in writing. If you are unable to resolve the issue directly with your landlord, you can file a formal complaint.

Communicate in writing: Outline your concerns and request that any unauthorized monitoring stops immediately.
File a complaint: Complaints regarding privacy breaches can be addressed with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), the official hearing board for landlord-tenant disputes in Saskatchewan.
Forms: Use the ORT’s Application for Hearing form. This form is used to request a hearing if discussions with your landlord don’t resolve the situation. Submit the application online or by mail to the ORT office, and keep copies for your records.

If you’re unsure what to do after moving in or are navigating your first rental experience, check out What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Key Rights for Saskatchewan Tenants on Monitoring and Privacy

To summarize, your main legal protections in Saskatchewan include:

Landlord entry only with proper written notice (unless urgent).
Electronic surveillance is not permitted in private units.
Common area cameras allowed with notification and proper use.
Your right to quiet enjoyment (no harassment or unnecessary monitoring).
The right to request a formal hearing if your privacy is not respected.

For a broader guide on provincial rights and laws, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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FAQ: Saskatchewan Tenant Privacy and Monitoring

Can my landlord watch or record me coming and going from my apartment?
Landlords cannot record or watch you inside your apartment. Security cameras are sometimes allowed in building entrances or hallways, but not inside your private space.
Do I need to be notified if there are cameras or monitoring systems?
Yes. Landlords must post a clear notice if there are any cameras monitoring common areas. They cannot install cameras in areas where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
What can I do if my landlord uses a smart lock to track when I’m home?
If you believe a smart lock or electronic entry system is being misused to track your movements, document your concerns and contact the Office of Residential Tenancies if the issue can’t be resolved informally.
How can I file a complaint about unauthorized monitoring?
Complete and submit the Application for Hearing to the ORT to formally raise your privacy issue.
Is written notice required before my landlord enters my unit?
Yes. Except for emergencies, landlords must give you 24 hours written notice before entering your rental unit.

Conclusion: Staying Informed and Protecting Your Privacy

Your privacy as a tenant is protected by Saskatchewan law.
Landlords cannot monitor your private entry/exit without clear, lawful reasons—and must give written notice to enter.
Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies if you believe your privacy rights are violated.

Understanding your tenant rights helps ensure a safe and respectful home environment. Saskatchewan’s laws are there to support both landlords and tenants—know your rights and where to get help if you need it.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – For formal complaints and dispute resolution.
Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan) – The key legislation for your rights and responsibilities.
Province of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing – Government resources for tenants.
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan – For a summary of your rights.