My landlord keeps coming into my apartment without telling me. What can I do about it?

Hi*****, my name is Dolan, and I’d be happy to help with this. I carefully review each question and provide responses based on my years of hands-on experience as a lawyer.

It sounds like your landlord might not be following the rules regarding tenant privacy. Could you tell me a bit more? For example, how often this is happening and if your lease mentions anything about when they can enter your apartment?

Thanks for sharing more details. Based on what you’re saying, it sounds like your landlord’s actions could be violating your tenant rights. Most states, including California, require landlords to give advance notice before entering a tenant’s home, usually 24-48 hours unless it’s an emergency.

Here are some steps you can take:
1. Check Your Lease: Even if it doesn’t mention much, it’s good to confirm what it says about landlord access.
2. Document Everything: Write down every time this happens, including dates, times, and any reasons they gave.
3. Send a Written Request: Politely remind your landlord that they’re required to give notice before entering.
4. Know Your Local Laws: Since you’re in California, I can give you specific advice about the notice requirements there if you’d like.

Would you like me to help you draft a message to your landlord?

Got it. California law is pretty clear on this: landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering for non-emergency reasons, such as maintenance or inspections. Emergencies like fires or floods are exceptions, but what you’ve described doesn’t sound like emergencies.

Here’s a message you could send:

Subject: Request for Advance Notice Before Entry
Dear [Landlord's Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to reach out to remind you of California’s tenant privacy laws, which require at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property for non-emergency reasons.
Recently, I’ve noticed several unannounced visits to my apartment, and it’s made me feel uncomfortable in my home. I’d appreciate it if you could provide proper notice moving forward, as required by law.
Thank you for understanding, and I hope we can resolve this easily. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]

Great question. If they ignore your message and keep entering without notice, here’s what you can do:

1. Keep Documenting: Continue writing down every unauthorized entry. This will be important evidence if you need to escalate the issue.
2. Reach Out to Authorities: You can file a complaint with your local housing authority or a tenant rights organization. They often help mediate these issues.
3. Send a Certified Warning: If it persists, you can send a formal letter via certified mail reiterating your concerns and warning of possible legal action.
4. Legal Action: As a last resort, you could sue your landlord for violating your rights. In California, you might even be entitled to damages for repeated privacy violations.

If it gets to that point, working with a tenant rights attorney would be your best option. I can help you find one if needed.

Does this help you feel more prepared?

That’s a good plan. Starting with a polite message is always a smart move. Hopefully, it resolves the issue without further steps. If not, you’ve got options, and I’m here to guide you if needed.

If you’re happy with the advice I’ve provided, I’d really appreciate it if you left a review. Best of luck, and I hope this gets resolved quickly!