Can my landlord enter my apartment without notifying me?
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Can my landlord enter my apartment without notifying me?
Today I noticed some things missing from my apartment (my husband’s prescription medicine and soda) When I called the management company I was informed that they had “checked out” our key to a pest control vendor over the weekend. They tried to reassure me by telling me that the vendor was bonded and insured, and that they’d never had this problem before. Aren’t they required to notify me in writing or otherwise that someone will be entering my home? What rights do I have to avoid this in the future?
Asked on July 18, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Maryland
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
In MD, a landlord must give "reasonable" to enter a tenant's premises. This has been defined as a minimum 24 hours, more if feasible. And without notice if the is tenant present and agrees. Additionally, the days and time of entry must be during normal business hours (8:00 a. to 6:00 pm, M – F) unless the tenant agrees otherwise. So as long as such notice is given, there can be entry without consent. Reasons for entry include: to perform necessary or agreed on repairs, alterations, or redecoration or to exhibit property to potential tenants, buyers, workmen, mortgagees, etc.
Note: In the event of an emergency, where providing notice is impractical, a landlord has the right of entry into a tenant's premises and without notice.
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