When Can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit in Ontario?

Ontario Landlord Entry Rules · Updated for 2026

Featured photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash.

Ontario law gives tenants privacy rights while also allowing landlords to enter rental units in specific circumstances. The rules depend on why the landlord is entering.

Entry With 24 Hours’ Written Notice

A landlord may enter for certain lawful reasons after giving at least 24 hours’ written notice. Common examples include making repairs, carrying out a reasonable inspection to determine whether repairs are needed, allowing a potential purchaser, mortgagee or insurer to view the unit, and other reasonable reasons identified in the tenancy agreement.

What the Notice Should Say

The notice should state the reason for entry, the date and a time of entry between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Vague notices or repeated notices that do not reflect a genuine purpose can create disputes.

Entry Without the Usual Written Notice

Written notice is not always required. Examples include emergencies, where the tenant consents at the time of entry, certain agreed housekeeping arrangements, and some showings to prospective tenants after a tenancy is ending. The specific statutory conditions still matter.

Showing a Unit to Buyers

A landlord, or an authorized registered real estate professional, may enter to allow a potential purchaser to view the unit after proper written notice. Selling a property does not eliminate the tenant’s privacy rights.

Practical Steps for Landlords

• Use written notices that clearly identify the lawful reason.
• Give at least 24 hours where required.
• Use a specific time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Avoid unnecessary or excessive entries.
• Keep copies of notices and records of entry.
• Coordinate real-estate showings with the tenancy rules.

Practical Steps for Tenants

• Read the reason, date and time on the notice.
• Remember that a tenant does not generally have to be home for a properly noticed lawful entry.
• Document repeated or improper entries.
• Use the LTB process if there is a serious privacy dispute.

Read the Residential Tenancies Act and our Ontario Landlords & Tenants hub.

Landlord Entry FAQ

Does a landlord always need 24 hours’ notice?

No. Emergencies, tenant consent and certain other situations can allow entry without the usual written notice. For many routine entries, at least 24 hours’ written notice is required.

Can a landlord enter when the tenant is not home?

Yes, if the entry is lawful and the required notice has been given. The tenant does not generally need to be present.

General information only: Entry rights can depend on the circumstances. Verify current legal requirements before entering or refusing entry.