Can a Landlord Show Your Apartment While You’re Packing in Oregon?

As an Oregon renter preparing to move out, you might wonder about your privacy and the landlord’s right to access your home for showings. Understanding Oregon’s rules helps you protect your rights and avoid unexpected disruptions.

Your Rights When a Landlord Wants to Show Your Apartment

In Oregon, landlords have the right to enter your rental for certain reasons, including showing the apartment to prospective renters or buyers once you (the tenant) have given your notice to move out or after receiving a notice to vacate. However, key rules ensure you receive proper notice and protection of your privacy.

Oregon’s Notice Requirement for Entry

• 24-hour written notice: Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your apartment for showings, unless you agree to shorter notice.
• The notice must state the date, time, and reason for entry (e.g., showing to new tenants).
• Entry must occur at a reasonable time, typically between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you allow otherwise.

These rules are set by the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically ORS 90.322.^[1]

Can a Landlord Show the Apartment While You Are Packing?

Yes, Oregon law allows landlords to show the rental to prospective tenants or buyers before you move out, as long as the proper notice is given and it’s done at a reasonable time. You can continue packing and living in the unit during these showings.

• Your presence during a showing is allowed but not required.
• If showings disrupt your move, you can discuss setting specific times or days for visits with your landlord.

It’s important to know that repeated, disruptive, or unreasonable entry attempts without proper notice may violate your rights. If you feel harassed or your landlord is not following the law, you have the right to address this issue.

What If You Don’t Want the Apartment Shown?

While you generally cannot refuse all showings if the landlord follows the law, you may:

• Request specific times or days for showings that work better with your schedule.
• Refuse entry if proper 24-hour written notice is not given (unless it’s an emergency).
• Document any entry that violates your rights, such as unannounced visits.

Key Official Forms for Renters

• Landlord’s Notice of Intent to Enter (No Standard Form Number)
  Use: Landlords must give you written notice at least 24 hours in advance for non-emergency entry, including showings.
  Example: If your landlord wants to show the apartment on Thursday at 3 p.m., they should give you written notice by 3 p.m. Wednesday, stating the purpose is to show the unit.
  See guidance from Oregon Housing and Community Services.
• Tenant Complaint Form (Optional, No Standard Statewide Form)
  Use: If a landlord violates entry rules, you can submit a written complaint to the landlord or, in serious cases, seek help from local fair housing resources.
  Example: If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice, use this form to document violations for your own records or when contacting the landlord in writing.
  Resource: Oregon Housing and Community Services

Oregon does not provide a standard state-issued entry notice or complaint form, but you can find templates and more information from the Oregon Housing and Community Services.

The tribunal handling rental disputes is the Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) in the form of your local Small Claims or Circuit Court.

What to Do If Your Landlord Violates Entry Rules

If your landlord enters without notice or repeatedly disturbs you, Oregon law provides ways to address the issue:

• Keep a written record of each entry (date, time, and details).
• Notify your landlord in writing of the violation and request compliance.
• If the behavior continues, you may be able to file a complaint in local court or seek resolution through mediation.

For information on legal rights and possible action, review the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment without notice for showings?
   Generally, no. Oregon law requires landlords to give at least 24 hours’ written notice for non-emergency entry, including showings.
2. What should I do if my landlord keeps entering without permission?
   Document each incident, notify your landlord of the violation in writing, and seek help from the Oregon Judicial Department if needed.
3. Can I refuse all apartment showings?
   No, you cannot refuse all showings if your landlord follows the law, but you can request reasonable scheduling accommodations.
4. Is it legal for my landlord to show the apartment while I am still living there?
   Yes, as long as you have given notice to vacate or received notice, and proper 24-hour written notice is given for each showing.
5. Where do I file a complaint about landlord entry violations?
   You may file with your local Small Claims or Circuit Court within the Oregon Judicial Department.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Oregon can show your apartment before you move out, but must give 24 hours’ written notice and enter only at reasonable times.
• As a renter, you have the right to privacy and can request certain times for showings.
• Document any rights violations and seek help if your landlord does not comply with Oregon law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Renters & Landlord Info
• Oregon Judicial Department – Find Your Local Court
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
• Local legal aid (contact information available from Oregon Law Help)

---

1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, ORS 90.322 – Access
2. Oregon Housing and Community Services – Landlord/Tenant Information
3. Oregon Judicial Department – Local Court Finder

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations