There are rules about when a landlord or agent is allowed to enter a rented property. As a tenant you are entitled to enjoy peace and quiet in the property you rent and you must allow your neighbours peace and quiet in their properties.

A landlord or agent can enter your property, as long as you have been consulted not more than seven days in advance and have agreed on the time. Landlords can also enter on 24-hour written notice to:

• Carry out duties such as repairs and maintenance
• Have the property valued
• Show the property to prospective buyers or lenders
• Verify a reasonable belief that you have not met your duties as a tenant
• Make one general inspection in any six-month period, but not within the first three months of the tenancy

The written notice must also be posted or hand delivered between the hours of 8.00am and 6.00pm. Landlords can also enter the property when you are not present, providing they abide by the rules regarding written notices. They must also take responsibility for the actions of anyone they authorise to enter the property.

However, regardless of agreed times and 24 hour a written notice, landlords do not have the right to:

• Enter in an unreasonable way
• Stay any longer than necessary to do what is required, unless you have given permission

Further information is available in the fact sheet Privacy and access and the booklet Renting a home: A guide for tenants and landlords.

This booklet is also available in English, Italian, Greek, Turkish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian and Serbian in the Forms and Publications section.