Can Your Landlord Enter Your Unit Without Notice in Ontario?
Your landlord owns the building, but once you have a lease, the law gives you the right to exclusive possession. This post breaks down sections 26 and 27 of...
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord enter my unit without any notice?
Only in a genuine emergency — fire, flood, gas leak, or a similar situation involving immediate risk to life, safety, or serious property damage. The LTB interprets “emergency” narrowly. Wanting to check on the unit or measure for renovations does not qualify.
What must a valid notice of entry include?
It must be in writing, state the reason for entry, specify the date, and specify the time of entry — which must fall between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. The notice must be given at least 24 hours before entry. A phone call or text message does not count.
Can I change the locks to keep my landlord out?
No. Under section 35 of the RTA, a tenant cannot change the locks without the landlord’s consent. The proper remedy for unauthorized entry is to file a T2 application at the LTB. However, a landlord also cannot change the locks to keep a tenant out — that is an illegal lockout.
What can I do if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
Document every unauthorized entry, send the landlord a written notice citing sections 26 and 27 of the RTA, and file a T2 application at the Landlord and Tenant Board. The Board can order the landlord to stop, award a rent abatement, and order compensation.
Contact Legal Assist
Legal Assist Paralegal Services — Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. Serving London, Ontario and Southwestern Ontario. Call 226-272-5153 or email jeanfrancois@legalassist.london for a free consultation.