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N
Natalie
Chicago, IL · March 23, 2026
Legal Advice

My landlord keeps entering my apartment without telling me. I came home from work twice and things were moved. Is this legal?

D
Daniel Harris
Legal Consultant · 12 years experience
Verified Expert

In virtually every state, a landlord cannot enter without proper notice except in genuine emergencies (fire, flood, gas leak). Required notice is typically 24 to 48 hours, at reasonable times. Your landlord is violating your right to quiet enjoyment. Steps: 1) Send written notice via email and certified mail citing your state tenant rights law, stating you are aware of unauthorized entries and requiring proper notice for all future entry. 2) Install a $20 smart camera or door sensor for documentation. 3) If entries continue after written notice, you can file a complaint with your local housing authority, potentially withhold rent (check state laws first), break the lease due to the violation, or sue in small claims court. 4) Keep a written log of every unauthorized entry with dates and what was disturbed.

👍 97 people found this helpful·Answered March 23, 2026
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