Landlord entry and privacy
Guides on landlord entry and privacy, with the actual statute numbers and what to do if your lease crosses the line.
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Can My Landlord Control My Thermostat?
If the landlord pays the utility bills, they generally can control the thermostat — but only within the bounds of habitability. The temperature still has to be safe and livable, which most states define through minimum-heat requirements in winter. Where it gets contested is around smart thermostats that log usage data, restrict your control, or adjust temperature based on whether you're home.
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Can My Landlord Install a Smart Lock on My Apartment?
In most states, a landlord can install a smart lock on your unit — as long as you keep working access. The harder questions are about the data: who sees the access logs, whether the landlord can remotely unlock the unit, and what happens if the system fails. State law hasn't fully caught up with smart-lock technology, so the lease language matters more than usual.
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Can My Landlord Show Up Unannounced?
In most states, no. Landlords have to give written notice — typically 24 to 48 hours — before entering, and entry has to be at reasonable times for a recognized purpose. Texas, New York, Massachusetts, and Georgia don't have specific statutes, so the lease controls. Emergencies are always an exception.
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Is It Legal for My Landlord to Have Cameras?
Cameras in common areas — lobby, parking lot, hallways — are generally legal. Cameras inside your unit, in a bathroom, or pointed at a window into your apartment usually aren't. And audio recording without your consent is illegal in 11 states that require all-party consent.
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