Very few circumstances exist for a landlord to enter a tenant's property, but the law can vary from state to state. The biggest exception to the rule deems the landlord able to enter under extreme circumstances. If you are renting a property and want to know more about your rights regarding landlord entry, this guide of information can help.

Emergencies Do Allow A Landlord To Enter

No notice or a short notice would be required if an emergency occurred in the home such as a fire or pipes flooding the dwelling. Some states also allow the property manager or landlord to gain entry if the tenant has an extended absence. Damages or needed repairs can be accomplished in the home if the tenant is gone for more than seven days (if the entry is essential to maintaining or inspecting the premises).

In Most Cases, Advance Notice Is Required

Your landlord needs to provide you with a minimum of twenty-four to forty eight hours to inspect or show your home to future tenants. It must also be a time during the evening or daytime hours that is reasonable for you and your family.

If your landlord fails to observe this rule or if you believe you are not being treated fairly to the point of harassment, you can sue the landlord.

There Are Rules Regarding Changing Locks

If you are attempting to keep the landlord out of your home, in most states, you cannot change the locks unless the landlord has a key for emergency access. A key must be provided within forty-eight hours of the change. If domestic violence is involved, you have seventy-two hours to provide the key.

If you change the locks in the dwelling without giving a copy of the key to the landlord, you can be charged for changing the locks back when you move out. This money could come out of your security deposit.

If you have changed the locks, the agent or landlord can ask you to change the locks back to avoid the extra charges. A notice will probably be provided to you in writing. However, if you don't respond to the request, you will be responsible for the costs of replacement.

Even someone who is renting a property has a right to feel safe in his/her own home. You have a right to not worry that your landlord is just coming and going whenever he/she pleases. Until your lease expires, you do have a right to privacy. Your landlord, legally, cannot enter your home while it is rented to you without giving you notice unless there is an emergency. If your landlord violates your rights, you can hire a lawyer.