Tenant Refusing Access in Ontario? Know Your Rights.

Taking back control when a tenant denies you entry.

Ontario landlords have the legal right to enter a rental unit for valid reasons, even if a tenant objects. When proper notice is given, tenants cannot refuse lawful entry. Blocking access may breach the tenancy agreement, and repeated refusals can justify formal action through the Landlord and Tenant Board, including possible eviction.

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What Is the Landlord’s Right of Entry in Ontario?

Under sections 26 & 27 of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), you are legally allowed to enter the rental unit:


  • With at least 24 hours written notice, for:
  • Repairs or inspections
  • Showing the unit to potential buyers or tenants
  • Assessing damage or maintenance needs


Without notice, in certain cases:

  • Emergency situations (e.g., fire, flood)
  • If the tenant consents at the time of entry


All entry must happen between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. and for a valid reason.


Is Your Tenant Refusing Entry Despite Proper Notice?

Our licensed Ontario paralegals can help you enforce your right of access and take the proper steps through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).


What Makes a Valid Notice of Entry?

Your notice must be:

  • In writing
     - Given     at least 24 hours in advance
     Include:
  • The date and time of entry
  • The reason for entry
  • A time frame between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.


Deliver notice by:

  • Hand-delivery
  • Mail
  • Posting on the door
  • Email (only if previously agreed upon in writing)


Not Sure If Your Notice Meets Ontario’s Legal Requirements?

Our licensed paralegals can review your Notice of Entry to ensure it’s valid under the  Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) — and help you avoid costly LTB disputes.


Can Tenants Refuse Access?

Tenants cannot refuse entry if you:

  • Gave proper notice
  • Follow the time restrictions
  • Have a legal reason for entry


If a tenant blocks entry after proper notice, they may be:

  • Interfering with your rights as a landlord
  • Violating the lease
  • Subject to eviction via the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)


Is Your Tenant Refusing Lawful Access to the Unit?
Our licensed Ontario paralegals can help you file with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) and take legal action to enforce your right of entry.


What to Do If Your Tenant Refuses Lawful Access

  • Document Everything
  • Save copies of all notices
  • Take photos of posted notices
  • Keep records of refused entry
  • Attempt Re-Entry With Proper Notice
  • Try again, following the rules strictly
  • File With the LTB


If refusal persists, you may apply to the LTB for:

  • Termination for interference
  • Order for access
  • Eviction if it becomes a recurring issue


Ready to Take Action Through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)?
Our licensed Ontario paralegals can help you file your N5 Notice or LTB application, prepare your evidence, and represent you at the hearing.

How Cordaie Paralegal Services Can Help

When a tenant refuses access, the key is to respond legally, promptly, and strategically.


Our licensed paralegals help landlords:

  • Draft and serve valid Notices of Entry
  • Gather and organize evidence of refusal
  • File the correct LTB forms
  • Represent you at the LTB hearing
  • Help avoid illegal entry and costly mistakes


Let us protect your rights while keeping you compliant.


Ready to Take Legal Action and Protect Your Rights?
Our licensed Ontario paralegals will guide you through every step — from serving notices to representing you before the Landlord and Tenant Board.


“Wow, I’m thoroughly impressed with how kind and knowledgeable Damian is. I called him on Saturday morning about tenants who were really stressing me out and for free he gave me great advice that would protect me. I will definitely use this paralegal team for bigger issues that may arise. Just that conversation with Damian made me feel lighter and I now know how to deal with this situation! I can’t say thank you enough Cordaie Paralegal Services.”

Aliki L., Former Client

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We Proudly Serve All of Ontario

At Cordaie Paralegal Services, we represent landlords and property owners across the entire province of Ontario — from large cities to small towns.


Whether you’re dealing with a tenant refusing access, an eviction notice, or a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) hearing, our licensed Ontario paralegals are here to help you navigate the process confidently and legally.


With virtual consultations, document preparation, and full LTB representation, we make it easy for landlords anywhere in Ontario to get professional legal support without leaving their home or office.


We regularly assist clients in:
Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, London, Kitchener, Windsor, Barrie, Kingston, Sudbury, and beyond.


No matter where your rental property is located, you can count on our paralegal team to provide reliable, timely, and affordable legal help anywhere in Ontario.


Tenant Refusing Access FAQ for Ontario Landlords

In Ontario, a tenant’s right to reasonable enjoyment of their home is balanced with a landlord’s statutory right to enter the unit for specific purposes, including repairs, maintenance, inspections, and other conditions permitted under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA).


When entry is requested in compliance with the RTA—most commonly through proper written notice given at least 24 hours in advance—a tenant may not unreasonably interfere with or refuse that entry.


A refusal of lawful entry can delay urgent work, compromise safety, or put the landlord at risk of breaching maintenance obligations.


This FAQ outlines:

  • When entry is legally permitted,
  • How notice must be delivered,
  • What qualifies as unreasonable interference,
  • Remedies available through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), and
  • Practical steps to reduce conflict while maintaining compliance.


Still Have Questions About Your Right to Access?
Talk to a licensed Ontario paralegal who can review your situation and guide you through your next legal step.


  • 1. Can I evict a tenant for refusing entry?

    Yes — repeated refusal can be considered interference with your rights and may lead to termination via N5 Notice or other remedies.

  • 2. What if I gave notice but the tenant says “don’t come in”?

    You may still enter if the notice was valid. If they block you physically or threaten legal action, document it and contact us immediately.

  • 3. Can I enter without notice if it's urgent?

    Yes — emergencies like fire, flooding, or serious repair issues allow entry without notice.

  • 4. Can I change the locks if a tenant refuses access?

    No — unless authorized by an LTB order or if the tenant has moved out. Changing locks without legal grounds is illegal.

  • 5. What evidence should I collect?

    Notices served, photos, time-stamped messages, video of blocked entry, and any correspondence from the tenant.

Mistakes Landlords Should Avoid

  • Giving less than 24 hours’ notice
  • Entering outside of 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Not documenting entry attempts
  • Using vague reasons like “to check something”
  • Forcing entry without legal process


Even if your tenant is acting illegally, you must stay within the law.

Let us help you do it right — and win.


Avoid Costly Mistakes and Stay Within Ontario’s Landlord Laws.

Our licensed paralegals will help you serve valid notices, enforce your rights, and handle tenant disputes legally and effectively.