Biometric Locks in Yukon Rentals: Tenant Privacy and Legal Rights

With smart technology becoming more common, some landlords in Yukon are considering biometric locks—like fingerprint or facial recognition systems—in rental homes. If you are a tenant, you may wonder: is it legal for your landlord to require biometric access in Yukon? How does this impact your privacy rights?

Biometric Locks and Tenancy Law in Yukon

Biometric locks use your biological information (like fingerprints or faces) to allow access. While these can be convenient, they also raise serious questions about your privacy and data security as a renter.

In Yukon, residential tenancies are regulated by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1]. This law sets out rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords—including how keys and access devices are managed.

Is Your Landlord Allowed to Install a Biometric Lock?

The Act does not specifically mention biometric locks, but there are clear rules about privacy and reasonable access:

• Your landlord is responsible for providing and maintaining locks that control access to your unit.
• Any lock changes, including switching to biometric systems, generally require mutual consent or proper notice.
• A landlord cannot unreasonably prevent you from accessing your rental.

If your landlord wants to replace a standard lock with a biometric one, you have a right to discuss concerns, especially about who controls or stores your data.

Your Privacy and Personal Information

Under Canadian privacy laws, biometric data is considered sensitive personal information. Landlords must collect, use, or store this information only with your informed consent and for a legitimate reason related to the security of the rental property. If you are uncomfortable providing a fingerprint or facial scan, it is reasonable to ask about alternatives or data protection measures.

For more on your overall rights in Yukon rentals—including privacy, deposits, and more—see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

What Can You Do If You Disagree?

If your landlord insists on a biometric system and you do not consent, take these steps:

• Communicate your concerns in writing. Clearly state your reasons (privacy, discrimination, data security, etc.).
• Ask about alternatives (e.g., code, physical key, or card access without biometrics).
• If unresolved, you can bring your concern to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Filing a Complaint: Which Forms to Use

If informal talks don’t work, Yukon tenants may use official dispute forms. For privacy issues linked to landlord conduct, tenants typically submit an Application for Dispute Resolution (no specific form number as of 2024). Access it on the Yukon government dispute page and follow the instructions to lodge your concern about the biometric lock requirement.

Consent and Alternatives

Landlords are encouraged to offer a non-biometric access option for tenants who object. If consent is not given, it could be seen as interfering with your right to reasonable enjoyment of the premises. Document all requests and responses for your records.

Key Privacy Considerations with Biometric Locks

• Biometric information is highly sensitive and protected by both tenancy and privacy laws.
• Landlords should use secure systems and disclose how your data is stored, used, and deleted.
• You are entitled to withhold consent without penalty, except where access is required for emergency repairs or legal obligations.
• Consider asking your landlord to provide the privacy policy for any smart lock system.

Understanding boundaries and mutual obligations can help avoid conflict. For a full review, check out Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Looking for a new rental that matches your security and privacy needs? Canada's best rental listings platform lets you compare features and policies before signing any rental agreement.

FAQ: Biometric Locks & Tenant Rights in Yukon

1. Can my landlord force me to use a biometric lock?
   No. Landlords generally require your informed consent to collect and use your fingerprint or other biometric data. You can request a non-biometric access option.
2. Am I allowed to refuse if my landlord wants to install fingerprint entry?
   Yes. Refusing to provide biometric data is your right, and your landlord must respect your privacy unless a valid legal reason is given and your consent is secured.
3. Who can I contact if I have a privacy concern about my rental lock?
   Contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office for advice or to file a formal dispute if you believe your rights are being violated.
4. Does the Yukon law specifically mention biometric locks?
   Not at this time. However, the law covers your right to privacy, reasonable access, and informed consent, all of which apply to smart or biometric locks.
5. Do I need to sign any special forms for biometric access?
   Landlords should provide a consent form or explanation. Use the Yukon dispute application if you want to challenge a requirement for biometric data.

Summary: What Tenants Should Remember

• You have the right to privacy and reasonable access in your Yukon rental.
• Biometric locks require your consent; you can ask for alternatives.
• File a dispute with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office if your rights are not respected.

For more about your local rights and responsibilities, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Main government resource for tenant–landlord questions and disputes
• Application for Dispute Resolution – Use this form to file complaints or disputes
• Yukon Consumer Services: 867-667-5111 (General landlord–tenant support)

---

1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) – Yukon.ca
2. Submit a dispute as a landlord or tenant – Yukon.ca

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy