As a landlord, there are many reasons you may want to enter a property. Yet, there are only some reasons for which you can. Understanding the laws is crucial to avoid a tenant claiming you invaded their privacy.
Landlords usually need the tenant’s permission to enter the property
If you wish to enter a property, there are some steps you need to follow:
- Give the tenant notice: While a client may choose to let you in if you knock on the door, they do not usually have to. If you wish to enter, you should provide at least 24 hours’ notice and agree on a time. You can stipulate how much warning you need to give in the lease contract. If the time you suggest does not suit your client, they should offer you another time.
- Have a valid reason: Repairs or improvements are a valid reason. Showing the property to a prospective buyer or renter is also a valid reason. Those are simple to justify. Some can be tricker. You may need to enter the property if you feel the tenant is violating the terms of the contract. You need to take care to avoid them accusing you of harassment.
Emergencies are a valid reason regardless of permission. However, knocking first reduces the chance your tenant can complain later.
If a tenant continues to refuse your request to enter, consider legal help to seek a court order. If you suspect a tenant’s refusal is due to them breaching the lease terms, you may want to take action. Going about things in the wrong way could make solving the problem or evicting the tenant more difficult.
