When landlords can ask for access codes
Landlords may need access for repairs, safety checks, or emergencies, but Yukon rules limit how and when they can enter a rental unit. Landlords should give reasonable notice unless there is an emergency, and sharing access codes with contractors does not remove the landlord's duty to respect privacy and give notice in non-emergency situations.[1]
What Yukon law says
The governing statute for rental relationships in Yukon is the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; it sets out when landlords may enter, notice requirements, and remedies for tenants if entry rules are breached.[2] If a landlord shares your access code with third parties without your consent or without following entry rules, you can document the incident and contact the appropriate tenancy office for advice or dispute resolution.[3]
Practical steps to protect your privacy
Below are clear steps tenants can take if access codes are requested or shared.
- Keep codes private and only provide them when you have a clear, documented reason for entry.
- Ask for written notice that states the date, time, and purpose before non-emergency entry.
- Document who has the code, when it was shared, and any communications about access.
- Limit contractor access to the smallest scope and time necessary for repairs or services.
What to do if your code is shared without consent
If you learn a landlord or their agent gave your access code to someone without proper notice, start by sending a written request asking who has the code, why it was shared, and what steps will be taken to secure your unit. Keep copies of emails and texts and take dated photos of any evidence of unauthorized entry. If the issue is not resolved, you can apply for dispute resolution or lodge a complaint with the official tenancy office.[3]
Relevant tenant obligations and emergency repairs
Tenants must not unreasonably withhold access for legitimate repairs, inspections, or emergencies; landlords must still follow notice rules and limit the number of people given access. For guidance on repair responsibilities and emergencies see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and for overall duties consult Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
FAQ
- Can a landlord legally share my smart-lock access code with a contractor?
- Not without following Yukon entry rules; they should provide notice for non-emergency work and limit sharing to necessary personnel only.
- What counts as an emergency that allows entry without notice?
- Immediate threats to safety or property, such as fire, flooding, or a serious gas leak, generally permit entry without prior notice.
- How do I document unauthorized access or code sharing?
- Save messages, take dated photos, log times, and request written confirmation from the landlord about who accessed the unit and why.
How-To
- Change or reset your access code if you reasonably suspect it was shared and inform your landlord in writing if your lease or local rules require notice.
- Collect evidence: save texts, emails, and photos showing unauthorized access or who had the code.
- Request a written explanation from the landlord and ask for a plan to secure your unit and restrict future sharing.
- If unresolved, file for dispute resolution or a complaint with the Yukon tenancy office, attaching your documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must respect Yukon entry rules even when using access codes.
- Document any sharing or entry thoroughly to protect your rights.
- You can request formal dispute resolution if notice rules are breached.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Yukon government renting and tenancy information page
- Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon legislation)
- Residential Tenancy Office - Yukon for complaints and dispute resolution
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