How much notice is required before a landlord can enter a property?

In most states, landlords may only enter a tenant's unit in an emergency or after providing sufficient notice, as defined by state statute or court opinions. Even after providing notice, state law often limits the reasons landlords may enter the property in order to protect tenants' privacy. Most commonly, landlords are required to provide at least 24 hours' notice, provide the reason for entry, and schedule the entry during normal business hours.

Under state law, landlords can normally enter the property for the following reasons:

• During a genuine emergency—for instance, to stop flooding or to provide access to medical personnel during a medical emergency
• To make repairs and conduct routine maintenance
• To show the property to prospective tenants
• When the landlord has reason to believe the property has been abandoned by the tenant