Alabama Statewide Rule
Alabama Landlord Entry: 2 Days' Notice Required Under § 35-9A-303
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
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?
Can an Alabama landlord enter without notice?
Does posting a note on my door count as notice?
Sources
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