Can a Landlord enter the property I am renting?

When tenants take on tenancy, their rights allow them to enjoy living in the property peacefully and undisturbed without interference from their landlord or landlord’s agent, or anyone acting on their behalf.

However, there are situations when landlord needs to access the property

Emergency that needs immediate action  - A landlord or agent can enter the property immediately. Here are few examples when landlords have the right to enter the property without giving notice:

·         Fire in the property.

·         Serious flooding.

·         Smell of gas from the property.

·         Structural damage that requires immediate attention (from a road accident).

·         Suspicion of criminal activity.

Right to inspect – this allows landlords or their agents to enter properties to carry out repairs. In most cases your landlord will need to give you a notice at least 24 hours before attending – for gas or electric safety check, or property inspection. Yet, all planned visits must occur in reasonable times of the day.

Right to enter to provide a service - If a landlord or their representative provide an ongoing service for tenants, such as room cleaning or garden maintenance, and this is specified in the tenancy agreement, then they can access the property without additional notice to complete these tasks.