Yes. Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act permits a landlord to enter a rental unit for a reasonable inspection in certain circumstances, but the landlord must follow the statutory entry rules.
When is an inspection permitted?
A landlord may enter to inspect whether the rental unit is in a good state of repair, fit for habitation and compliant with applicable health, safety, housing and maintenance standards, provided the inspection is reasonable.
How much notice is required?
For this type of inspection, the landlord generally must give at least 24 hours’ written notice. The notice should identify the reason for entry, the day and a time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
How often can a landlord inspect?
The RTA does not create a simple universal rule such as “once every six months.” The key issue is reasonableness. Routine inspections can be legitimate, but excessively frequent or unnecessary entries may interfere with a tenant’s reasonable enjoyment or privacy.
What can a landlord look at?
A reasonable condition inspection may include items such as plumbing leaks, smoke or carbon-monoxide alarms, visible damage, maintenance concerns, appliances supplied by the landlord and other conditions relevant to repair, safety or housing standards. The inspection should remain connected to its stated purpose.
Can the tenant refuse?
A tenant may raise concerns about a notice or request another time, but a properly noticed lawful inspection does not generally require the tenant’s permission at the moment of entry. Disputes should be handled through documentation and the appropriate legal process rather than confrontation.
Good practice for landlords
- Use a specific written notice
- Schedule at reasonable intervals
- Keep the inspection focused on the stated purpose
- Document maintenance issues objectively
- Give the tenant a reasonable opportunity to raise repair concerns
- Avoid unnecessary photographs of personal possessions
Good practice for tenants
Keep the notice, identify any repair issues you want documented, secure private or sensitive items, and communicate scheduling concerns promptly.
Bottom line
Ontario landlords can conduct reasonable inspections, but ownership does not create unlimited access. Proper notice, a legitimate purpose, reasonable frequency and respect for the tenant’s privacy are central to a compliant inspection.
Related: Use the Ontario Landlord Inspection Log and explore the Rental Move-In Inspection Checklist.
General educational information only; not legal advice.