Last Updated October 12, 2023
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What is a Notice to Enter?
A Notice to Enter is a formal letter that a property manager or landlord uses to inform a tenant of their intent to enter the premises. This is both a courtesy and a legal requirement that recognizes both the tenant's and landlord’s property rights.
A Notice to Enter is also known as an:
- Inspection notice
- Intent to enter letter
When should I use a Notice to Enter?
You should use a Notice to Enter any time you need to enter a tenant's home—except in an emergency, which doesn't require any notification.
That being said, landlords can’t just randomly pop into a dwelling unit whenever they feel like it. They need to have a valid reason (as outlined in their Residential Lease Agreement or their State Code).
State laws often dictate when a landlord can and cannot enter an occupied rental property. This is to balance the landlord’s right of entry with the tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment of the property. As such, it’s crucial to know your local laws.
Generally, situations that warrant a Notice to Enter include:
- Property viewings with potential new tenants/buyers
- Scheduled property inspection or appraisal
- Repairs or upgrades to the property
- Pest control services
How much notice does a landlord need to give to enter a property?
Notice periods may vary depending on your local laws and the reason for entering the property. However, tenants can typically expect at least 24 to 48 hours' notice from their landlord.
LawDepot’s Notice to Enter template provides guidelines for notice periods based on your jurisdiction and your answers.
When using a Notice to Enter, the landlord should keep a copy for their records as proof of serving the notice within the appropriate time frame.
How do I write a Notice to Enter?
Use LawDepot’s Notice to Enter template to generate a document that suits your needs. Then, download your document as a PDF or print out copies for your and your tenant’s records.
The information you need to fill out our Notice to Enter form includes:
- The name of the registered tenant
- Your reason for entry
- The rental property address
- The day and time of the scheduled entry
- Contact information for the landlord
Can a landlord force entry?
Although laws vary by jurisdiction, landlords typically retain the right to enter their property—as long as they serve the tenant with proper notice.
In this case, the landlord must deliver a written notice to the tenant within the mandated time frame. The notice must include the landlord’s signature and reason for entering.
With proper notice, the landlord does not need to obtain the tenant’s permission to enter the property. However, if the tenant consents (verbally or in writing), the landlord can enter the premises without waiting for the notice period to elapse.
Furthermore, as the property owner, the landlord should be able to access the dwelling unit without forcing entry.
If the tenant denies entry or changes the locks without the landlord’s permission, they may be in violation of their rental contract and possibly the law. As such, the landlord may be able to take legal action to gain entry to the property.
