When Can Landlords Use Their Key Without Permission in Yukon?

Living in a rental home comes with rights to privacy, but it can be confusing to know exactly when a landlord in Yukon may enter your unit using their copy of the key. Understanding these rules is crucial for protecting your privacy and maintaining a good tenant–landlord relationship.

Your Right to Privacy in Yukon Rentals

Under Yukon law, tenants have a fundamental right to quiet enjoyment and reasonable privacy in their home. Landlords cannot come and go as they please; there are strict rules and notice requirements they must follow before entering your unit.

These rules are set out in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1]. The Act outlines when entry is allowed, how much notice must be given, and what to do if you feel your rights have been violated.

When Can a Landlord Legally Enter?

A landlord can only enter your unit in Yukon under certain circumstances:

• With your permission: If you agree to let the landlord in at a specific time.
• In an emergency: For urgent situations (like fire, serious water leak, or gas smell), no advance notice is needed.
• To do repairs or inspections: Landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice before entering for repairs, inspections, or showings to new renters or buyers. The notice must state the reason and the expected entry time (which must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.).
• In case of abandonment: If they have reason to believe you've abandoned the unit.

Outside of emergencies or abandonment, landlords cannot use their key or enter without proper written notice or your consent.

What Kind of Notice Is Required?

For non-emergency entry, Yukon law requires the landlord to give written notice at least 24 hours beforehand. The notice must include:

• The reason for entering (such as repairs or inspection)
• The day and time they intend to enter (must fall between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.)

For more details on your rights and responsibilities during your tenancy, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Can Landlords Enter Without Permission For Repairs or Maintenance?

Landlords often need access for maintenance or repairs. Unless it is an emergency, entry for these reasons always requires proper notice as set out in the Act.

Routine maintenance, inspections, or viewings for new tenants must respect your schedule and the legal minimum notice. This protects your privacy, even when upkeep or urgent repairs are needed. For more about repair responsibilities, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

The Official Board and Legislation

If you believe your landlord violated your right to privacy, you can seek help from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), which resolves landlord–tenant disputes.

All rights and entry rules are governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1].

Which Forms Might I Need?

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 1): Use this to formally file a complaint if your landlord repeatedly violates your privacy or enters without required notice.
  Download from Yukon.ca.
  Example: If your landlord comes in several times without notice and refuses to follow the rules, fill out this form to request a hearing with the Residential Tenancies Office.

How to File a Complaint with the Yukon RTO

If you feel your landlord is not respecting your privacy, you can submit a dispute:

• Download the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 1 here).
• Describe the privacy breaches or unauthorized entries clearly.
• Attach any evidence (e.g., texts, emails, or witnesses).
• Submit the form in person or by mail to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.
• The RTO will schedule a hearing and notify both parties.

Resolving disputes through official channels helps protect your rights—and encourages landlords to follow the law.

What To Do If Your Privacy Rights Are Violated

If your landlord keeps entering without notice, keep detailed notes of each incident, including dates, times, and what happened. This documentation will help if you later need to file a complaint or seek compensation.

For broad information about your legal protections as a renter in Yukon, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page.

Looking for a new rental? Canada's best rental listings platform helps you browse and compare homes easily across the country.

1. Can a landlord enter my unit whenever they want if they have a key?
   No. Landlords must follow Yukon law, which requires notice for non-emergency entry. They can only use their key without permission in a genuine emergency or if you have abandoned the unit.
2. What should I do if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
   Start by talking with your landlord and reminding them of the rules. Keep a record of each entry. If the problem continues, file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.
3. Is text or email considered valid "written notice"?
   Yes, written notice can be provided electronically—by text or email—as long as it is clear, details the reason for entry, and gives at least 24 hours’ notice.
4. Can a landlord enter my home to show it to new tenants or buyers?
   Yes, but only with proper 24-hour written notice and only during reasonable hours (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.).
5. Where can I get help if my privacy rights are being violated?
   Contact the Yukon RTO for dispute resolution, or seek information from local tenant support groups.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Your landlord cannot use their key or enter your home without proper notice, except in emergencies or abandonment.
  
• Written notice must be given at least 24 hours in advance for most entry situations, and entry should occur during reasonable hours.
• If you experience repeated privacy violations, you have the right to file a complaint with the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Understanding your rights helps you maintain your privacy and resolve issues confidently as a Yukon tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): File complaints, access forms, and learn about dispute resolution.
• Government of Yukon: Tenants and Landlords
• Local legal clinics or tenant support organizations in Yukon can provide additional advice and advocacy.

---

1. ^[1] Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)

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