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Can My Landlord Enter My Rental Without Permission in Ontario?

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OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question

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Last verified: September 12, 2026

Quick answer: Sometimes, but only in situations allowed by Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act. In most non-emergency cases, a landlord needs a lawful reason and at least 24 hours’ written notice stating the date, reason and a time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

A tenant does not have to give separate permission every time a landlord serves a valid notice of entry. But owning the property does not give a landlord an unrestricted right to walk into the tenant’s home.

When can a landlord enter without written notice?

Common exceptions include a genuine emergency, entry with the tenant’s consent at the time, and certain situations involving agreed cleaning or showing a unit to prospective tenants after a notice or agreement to end the tenancy. The exact conditions matter.

When is 24 hours’ written notice required?

Written notice is generally required for repairs, a reasonable inspection to determine whether repairs are needed, and showings to a prospective purchaser, mortgagee or insurer. It may also be used for another reasonable purpose allowed by the tenancy agreement.

The notice should identify the reason, date and time of entry. A broad or vague notice can create disputes, and repeated or excessive entries may interfere with reasonable enjoyment.

Does the tenant have to be home?

No. If the landlord has a lawful reason and has given proper notice, entry can generally occur even if the tenant is away. A tenant may remain in the unit, but cannot insist that a valid entry happen only when convenient.

Can a tenant refuse entry?

A tenant may challenge entry that does not meet the RTA requirements—for example, no emergency, no consent and no proper notice. A tenant should document the notice and communicate the concern calmly. Physically obstructing a lawful entry can create a separate tenancy issue.

What both sides should document

  • The written notice and how it was delivered
  • The specific reason and proposed time
  • Any consent or request to reschedule
  • Who entered and what work or inspection occurred
  • Photos or messages relevant to a later dispute

OHI guides and tools

Frequently asked questions

Can my landlord enter because they gave me a text?

A text may raise questions about whether a legally sufficient written notice was given and properly served. The content, timing and method all matter.

Can my landlord enter with a contractor?

A landlord’s agent or person hired to perform authorized work may enter in connection with a lawful entry. The notice should give enough detail about the purpose.

Official Ontario sources

General information only: This article concerns Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. Verify current rules and forms with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

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