Landlord Entry Rules During Health Orders in Yukon

As a tenant in Yukon, understanding your rights around landlord entry is crucial – especially during COVID-19 or public health orders. The law sets specific rules to protect privacy while balancing a landlord's ability to maintain the property safely. This guide breaks down what you need to know, from notice requirements to emergencies and special rules in extraordinary times.

Who Regulates Rental Entry Rights in Yukon?

Residential tenancy matters in Yukon are managed by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Government of Yukon. The law governing landlord and tenant relationships is the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)¹.

Standard Rules for Landlord Entry

The RTO and Yukon law require landlords to respect a tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment and privacy. By default, a landlord can only enter:

• With at least 24 hours’ written notice to the tenant
• Between 8 am and 8 pm
• For a valid reason (like urgent repairs, inspections, or showing the unit to prospective renters)

Written notices should include the reason for entry, the date, and the approximate time. These can be delivered in person, by posting on your door, or by another approved method.

Exceptions: When Landlords Can Enter Without Notice

• Emergencies where life, health, or property is at risk (like a burst pipe or fire)
• When the tenant gives consent at the time of entry

Any other entry without proper notice or your agreement is typically not allowed, and repeated violations can be a breach of your rights.

Special Considerations During COVID-19 or Public Health Orders

During the COVID-19 pandemic or similar health emergencies, Yukon instructed extra caution to protect public health. These special measures can impact both the reasons for a landlord’s entry and how it must be performed:

• Landlords must still provide 24 hours’ notice (unless an emergency).
• Landlords are expected to reschedule non-urgent visits if the tenant is unwell, self-isolating, or there is confirmed risk of contagion.
• Reasonable health precautions should be taken (such as mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and physical distancing).
• If a tenant is high-risk or vulnerable, alternative arrangements (like video assessments) should be considered.

If a tenant refuses entry due to a legitimate health concern, both parties should communicate in writing to find a safe, workable solution. You may request documentation if the landlord wants entry for repairs or inspections during a health order.

For more on safety issues, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Official Forms: Notice of Entry and Complaint

The Yukon RTO does not mandate a specific "notice of entry" form; landlords must give written notice. However, if you believe your landlord is entering unlawfully, you may submit a complaint using the Application to Director (Form 2):

• Form Name: Application to Director (Form 2)
• When to Use: If your landlord violates entry rules or your right to privacy, and you cannot resolve it directly
• How to File: Complete the form and submit to the Residential Tenancies Office by email, mail, or in person. Access the Application to Director (Form 2) here

It's helpful to keep a record of all communications and notices exchanged about entry, as you may need this for your application.

What If There’s an Emergency?

In situations such as flooding, fire, or urgent repairs that impact safety, a landlord may enter your unit without notice. They should notify you as soon as possible after the fact. For more about your rights during building emergencies, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

It's important for tenants to respond in good faith to reasonable requests for entry, especially for essential repairs or to address health and safety issues. A refusal without valid cause may affect your standing if a dispute reaches the RTO.

For a broad overview, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Remember, finding the right place to rent is also about ensuring your rights are respected. For help navigating the Yukon rental market, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme – offering verified listings and helpful search tools for tenants nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions: Landlord Entry & Health Orders in Yukon

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment during COVID-19 if I am self-isolating?
   Landlords must take extra care if you’re self-isolating. Non-emergency visits should be rescheduled, and only true emergencies (like a gas leak or flood) justify entry during self-isolation.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give before coming into my unit?
   At least 24 hours’ written notice, stating when and why they need to enter, is required by law except in emergencies or with your immediate consent.
3. What can I do if my landlord enters repeatedly without permission during a health order?
   Document every incident and submit an Application to Director (Form 2) to the Residential Tenancies Office.
4. Are landlords allowed to insist on an in-person inspection during a health order?
   If there are reasonable health concerns, both parties should discuss safe alternatives such as video tours or rescheduling until after isolation.
5. Where can I get help if my privacy or safety is not respected?
   Contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office or seek assistance from tenant support organizations.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice (except for emergencies).
• Special health measures apply during COVID-19 or public health orders; tenants have a right to safety and reasonable privacy.
• Disputes over entry can be brought to the Residential Tenancies Office with Form 2.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Yukon Government: Advice, complaints, and official forms
• Application to Director (Form 2): To report entry violations or seek dispute resolution
• Tenant Advocacy Including Legal Help (private option)
• For basic information, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon

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1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office
3. Application to Director (Form 2)

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