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Alabama Statewide Rule

Alabama Landlord Entry: 2 Days' Notice Required Under § 35-9A-303

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Alabama (2026)

Key Facts

Notice before entry
At least 2 days (§ 35-9A-303)
Emergency entry
No notice required
Permitted notice method
Note posted on primary entry door
Entry timing
Reasonable times only
Last verified: September 5, 2026

Summary

Under Ala. Code § 35-9A-303 an Alabama landlord must give the tenant at least two days' notice and enter only at reasonable times for legitimate purposes such as repairs, inspection, or showings. No notice is required in a genuine emergency or by court order.

(c) A landlord shall not abuse the right of access or use it to harass the tenant. Except as provided in this section or unless it is impracticable to do so, the landlord may show the premises at any reasonable time by giving the tenant at least two days' notice of the landlord's intent to enter and may enter only at reasonable times. Posting of a note on the primary door of entry to the residence of the tenant stating the intended time and purpose of the entry shall be a permitted method of notice for the purpose of the landlord's right of access to the premises.

Full Breakdown

Ala. Code § 35-9A-303 lets a landlord enter to inspect, make repairs or improvements, supply services, or show the unit to buyers, lenders, tenants, workmen, or contractors; the tenant "shall not unreasonably withhold consent." The landlord "may show the premises at any reasonable time by giving the tenant at least two days' notice of the landlord's intent to enter and may enter only at reasonable times." Posting a note on the primary entry door stating the time and purpose is a permitted method of notice. A landlord may enter without notice or consent only in an emergency, with tenant consent to shorter notice, or by court order.

Violations & Penalties

If a landlord makes unlawful entry or repeated demands for entry that harass the tenant, the tenant may obtain injunctive relief, recover actual damages not less than an amount equal to one month's rent, plus reasonable attorney's fees under Ala. Code § 35-9A-407.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much notice must an Alabama landlord give before entering?
At least two days' notice of intent to enter, and entry must occur at a reasonable time, under Ala. Code § 35-9A-303. The tenant may consent to shorter notice.
Can an Alabama landlord enter without notice?
Yes, only in an emergency, by court order, or with the tenant's consent. Otherwise the two-day notice and reasonable-time requirements apply.
Does posting a note on my door count as notice?
Yes. Section 35-9A-303 expressly allows posting a note on the primary door of entry stating the intended time and purpose of the entry.

Sources

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