Can Landlords Gain Entry Without Permission?

When we enter the rental market as tenants we have certain expectations, rights and obligations. We have the obligation of keeping the premises clean, tidy and free from vermin and damage. We also have the right to expect privacy during our tenancy, and the right to be notified if our landlord wishes to gain entry to the premises for a specific reason. If the reason for wanting access is legitimate and we agree to allow the entry, then the time for the entry must be at a reasonable hour. Sundays and public holidays are not considered suitable.

Some of the reasons for access are not only reasonable but also desirable for our own safety. For instance a smoke alarm that isn't checked can cost us our lives, as can a defective electricity safety switch. This benefits both us and the landlord, as it safeguards his investment as well. There are also other areas that are of benefit to us as in leaking faucets, toilets or hot water systems. These are part of the landlord's obligations and taking care of them keeps his investment in good shape, so it is in our best interests to allow entry to have them repaired. Structural problems need to be taken care of as well by the landlord or his agent if he is using property management to handle his investment.

Unless tenants are agreeable to the request for entry at a certain time, then a time must be decided that is suitable to both parties. Landlords must give notice of at least twenty-four hours before gaining entry for repairs and inspections. Inspections of the premises can only be carried out once in every three months, which ensures the privacy of tenants isn't compromised. In the event of a landlord deciding to sell the investment, he does not have the right to hold an open house inspection unless he has the written consent of the tenant. This also applies to property management if the landlord has hired them, and to real estate agents that may accompany the landlord. Again this protects the tenant's right to privacy.

However, if the landlord has reason to believe that his property is being damaged and wishes to prevent further damage happening, he may enter the property to inspect it to be sure, without having to give notice at all. This too is fair and reasonable because of the time and money that has been put into gaining and maintaining his investment. After all, you would want to have the same opportunity if you were in his place, wouldn't you?


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Landlords are wise to choose property management Sydney, such as one provided by LHI Real Estate http://www.lhi-re.com.au/ , for their investment rentals. Real estate Double Bay agents must give notice to tenants if they wish to gain entry to the home.