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Finding a rental home in Ontario can feel like striking gold, but staying informed about your rights as a tenant is just as important as finding the perfect place to live. One question that often comes up is whether tenants can refuse a showing when their landlord wants to bring potential buyers or new renters into the home.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I have to let my landlord show my home?” This guide is for you. Living in Ontario means your rights as a tenant are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA), which lays out when a landlord can legally enter your home and what steps they need to take first.

By the end, you’ll feel confident about navigating these situations and protecting your rights. Whether you're a first-time tenant or a seasoned renter, these insights are invaluable for maintaining peace of mind.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Home?

In Ontario, landlords can enter your rental unit for specific reasons, but they must follow certain rules:

• Emergencies: If there's an emergency, like a fire or a flood, the landlord can enter without notice.

• With Notice: For non-emergency reasons, landlords must give you written notice at least 24 hours before they plan to enter. The notice should include:

• The reason for entry.

• The date of entry.

• The time of entry, which must be between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

• Showing the Unit: If you or the landlord have given notice to end the tenancy, the landlord can show the unit to potential tenants or buyers between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. They must make reasonable efforts to inform you in advance.

Your Rights as a Tenant

As a tenant, you have rights to ensure your home remains your private space:

• Reasonable Enjoyment: You have the right to enjoy your home without unnecessary disturbances.

• Proper Notice: Except in emergencies, landlords must provide proper notice before entering.

• Refusing Entry: You can refuse entry if the landlord doesn't provide proper notice or tries to enter at unreasonable times.

When Can You Refuse a Showing?

You can refuse a showing if:

• Improper Notice: The landlord didn't give at least 24 hours' written notice.

• Unreasonable Hours: The showing is planned outside of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• Harassment: If the landlord is showing the unit excessively, causing you distress.

What to Do If There's a Dispute

If you believe your landlord is not following the rules:

• Document Everything: Keep records of notices and any communications.

• Seek Mediation: The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) offers mediation to help resolve disputes.

• File a Complaint: If necessary, you can file a complaint with the LTB.

The Takeaway

Being a tenant in Ontario means having clear rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. While landlords are allowed to show rental units under specific circumstances, they must follow strict guidelines to respect your privacy and peace of mind. By understanding the rules and standing up for your rights, you can ensure a positive rental experience.

If you’re feeling frustrated with your current rental situation and thinking about buying or selling your home, you don’t have to navigate the market alone. The Johnson Team is here to help you every step of the way. With a reputation for excellence, Jeff and Liz Johnson and their team of experts have helped countless buyers and sellers in the Greater Toronto Area achieve their real estate dreams.

Ready to get started? Contact The Johnson Team today to connect with an agent.