Landlord Entry Rules for Showing Apartments in Kentucky

If you're preparing to move out of your rental in Kentucky, you might wonder if your landlord can show the apartment to new tenants while you are still packing. Understanding your rights helps prevent disputes and ensures a smoother transition for everyone involved. Kentucky law offers guidance on when and how landlords may enter your rental unit, especially during the last days of your lease.

When Can a Landlord Show Your Apartment in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) gives landlords and tenants clear rules about access to rental units. According to KRS § 383.615, except in emergencies, your landlord must give you at least two days’ notice before entering your apartment to show it to prospective tenants or buyers¹.

• Notice must be provided in writing or another agreed method (like email or text, if you have agreed to that in your lease).
• Entry is only allowed at reasonable times — typically during regular business hours unless you agree otherwise.
• You do not have to agree to showings at inconvenient or unreasonable times.

While it is legal for your landlord to show the apartment during your packing, they must always provide advance notice and respect your privacy.

Your Right to Privacy During Move-Out

Renters in Kentucky maintain the right to personal privacy, even in the last days of their lease. The law requires landlords to balance their need to re-rent the property with your need for quiet enjoyment of your home.

• Your landlord cannot enter without giving the required notice, except in emergencies.
• If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice or disrupts your packing, you may be entitled to remedies under Kentucky law.
• If you have special circumstances — for example, an illness or work-from-home obligations — you can negotiate alternative showing times.

What Notice Is Required for Showings in Kentucky?

Kentucky’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act requires at least 48 hours’ advance notice before the landlord enters the property for non-emergency reasons such as showing your apartment. This notice should:

• State the intended date and time of entry
• State the reason for entry (e.g., showing the unit to new tenants)
• Be delivered in writing or the communication method specified in the lease

If you receive less than the required notice, you may politely remind your landlord of the law and request a new, compliant showing time.

Key Forms and Their Use in Kentucky

• Notice to Enter Premises (No Official Form Number)
  This is a written statement your landlord gives you before entering, stating the date, time, and purpose. There is no state-mandated form, but you can review Kentucky’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for details. For example, if your landlord wants to show your apartment this Thursday at 10 a.m., they should give you written notice by Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, rental disputes are typically handled in the District Court of Kentucky. If your city or county has adopted the URLTA, you can rely on these tenant protections. If you live in an area that has not adopted it, the legal process may differ. Always check Chapter 383 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes for relevant provisions².

If Your Landlord Violates the Law

Here’s what you can do if you believe your landlord is not following the entry rules:

• Remind your landlord of the required notice and your rights
• Document all communications and instances of unlawful entry
• If problems continue, you may file a complaint with your local Kentucky Housing Corporation or seek assistance in District Court

Keep your lease and all written communications as records.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord show my Kentucky apartment while I’m still living there?
   Yes, your landlord can show the apartment with proper notice, but only at reasonable times.
2. How much advance notice does my landlord need to give me?
   At least 48 hours’ (two days’) written notice is required, except in emergencies.
3. Can I refuse a showing if it conflicts with my schedule?
   You can request to reschedule for a reasonable reason; landlords must make a reasonable effort to accommodate you.
4. Who do I contact if my landlord repeatedly enters without notice?
   Document the incidents and consider contacting your local District Court or the Kentucky Housing Corporation for advice.
5. What if I live in a part of Kentucky that hasn’t adopted the URLTA?
   You may have fewer formal protections. Refer to your lease agreement and consult your local court for guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must provide at least 48 hours’ notice before showings.
• Entry must occur at reasonable times and should respect your privacy.
• Disputes are handled by the District Court of Kentucky; keep records of all communications.

Understanding these rules protects both your rights and your peace of mind during move-out.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Housing Corporation – Renters’ Rights and Resources
• District Court of Kentucky – For Resolving Rental Disputes
• Read Kentucky’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)

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1. KRS § 383.615 – Landlord access; notice required
2. Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 383

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