As a tenant in Yukon, you have rights about when and how a landlord can enter your rental for showings. This guide explains common rules about notice, reasonable times for visits, and how to protect your privacy while cooperating with viewings. It covers practical steps to respond to requests, documentation you should keep, and what to do if a landlord does not follow territory rules. The goal is to help renters understand expectations, preserve habitability and safety, and know when to seek help from Yukon authorities or tenant support services. Use these tips to prepare for showings while asserting your legal protections as a renter in Yukon.
What the law says about showings in Yukon
In Yukon, tenancy rules balance a landlord's need to show a unit with a tenant's right to reasonable enjoyment and privacy. Landlords generally must give advance notice and enter only at reasonable times. If a landlord wants to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers, they must follow the written notice requirements and any specific conditions set out by territorial legislation and the Residential Tenancy Office.[1]
Giving notice and acceptable timing
A valid notice for a showing should state the purpose, proposed time window and how the landlord will access the unit. Reasonable hours are typically during daytime or early evening; short-notice or late-night visits are not appropriate unless previously agreed. If you need a specific time frame or an alternative showing method, communicate that to the landlord in writing.
- Provide availability or constraints promptly when you receive a showing request so a mutually suitable time can be arranged.
- Expect landlords to limit showings to reasonable hours and avoid early morning or late-night appointments unless you agree.
- Ask for written notice (email or text) that includes date, time window and the identity of visitors for your records.
Preparing for a showing and protecting your privacy
Preparing your unit can make showings quicker and less disruptive. You can set boundaries about which areas are private and whether personal items remain in place. If you have safety concerns or need accompaniment during a showing, request that in writing. Reasonable accommodations should be discussed ahead of time.
- Secure valuables and lock rooms you consider private, and tell the landlord which spaces are off-limits.
- Request that showings be conducted by appointment only and that visitors be accompanied by the agent or landlord.
- Take photos of the unit before a showing if you are concerned about damage or belongings.
When landlords can enter without notice
There are limited circumstances where a landlord may enter without prior notice, typically emergencies that threaten safety or significant property damage. In non-emergency situations such as repairs, inspections or showings, notice is normally required. If a landlord repeatedly enters without notice, document each incident and ask for an explanation in writing.
What to do if your rights are not respected
If a landlord ignores notice rules or enters improperly, follow these steps: communicate your concerns in writing, keep copies of notices and any messages, and contact the Residential Tenancy Office if the problem continues. You may be able to file a complaint or request mediation through territorial resources.
- Ask the landlord to stop the behaviour in writing and request compliance with notice rules.
- Save evidence: copies of notices, photos, timestamps and witness names.
- Contact the Residential Tenancy Office or local tenant support for next steps and filing procedures.[1]
Practical examples of notice and forms
Yukon government pages explain typical notices and how to contact the office that handles tenancy matters. For showings, many landlords use a simple written "Notice to Enter" message stating purpose, date and time window. If no formal territorial form is available, a clear written notice that includes those elements is usually acceptable. When in doubt, ask the Residential Tenancy Office which form or wording they recommend.[1]
For related move-in or inspection guidance, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants and for routine post-signing rights see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
FAQ
- How much notice must a landlord give for showings?
- Landlords must give reasonable advance notice; this usually means a written notice with a clear time window and enough lead time to reasonably allow you to prepare or object.
- Can a landlord force entry if I refuse a showing?
- No. Outside emergencies, landlords generally cannot force entry without proper notice or your consent. If they do, you should document the event and contact the Residential Tenancy Office.
- What should I do if I feel unsafe during a showing?
- Tell the landlord you feel unsafe, end the showing if necessary, and report the incident to local authorities if there is immediate danger. Follow up with written complaints and contact tenancy support.
How-To
- Read the showing notice carefully and confirm the date and time in writing or propose alternatives within 24 hours.
- Prepare the unit by securing personal items and noting any areas you consider private.
- Attend the showing or arrange to have someone present; take notes of who attended and any issues observed.
- If rules were breached, save evidence and contact the Residential Tenancy Office to learn how to file a complaint.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must give reasonable written notice before showings, and tenants have a right to privacy.
- Keep written records of all showing requests, times and participants to protect your rights.
- Contact the Residential Tenancy Office if a landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice.
Help and Support / Resources
- Yukon Government — Housing and renting information
- Yukon Residential Tenancy Office and dispute resolution
