Help! Can my landlord show my apartment before I move out?

Moving out of a rental when the lease is about to end can be stressful. Your landlord will want to start looking for new tenants, and the last thing you’d want is strangers walking through your home while you’re still living there. Are you also wondering, “Can my landlord show my apartment before I move out officially”? Can I stop them from showing the rental to prospective tenants? What happens if I refuse property access to them?

The answers depend on several factors, including your lease agreement, local laws, and common rental etiquette. Let’s break it down so you know your rights—and what to do if your landlord wants to show the property while you’re still there.

When can a landlord show up in your apartment?

Landlords usually have the right to enter your apartment for legitimate reasons.

These include:

• Showing the unit to prospective tenants
• Conducting repairs or home inspections
• Handling emergencies (such as a water leak or water damage)

However, they must follow the rules laid down by your state. If they don’t, you may be able to refuse entry (though it’s best to communicate first).

What if you’re still living there?

Even if you’re moving soon, you still have rights. Your landlord can’t:

• Enter without proper notice.
• Force you to keep the apartment spotless at all times.
• Harass you with constant showings.

If you feel they’re overstepping, politely remind them of your rights—or check your local tenant laws for backup.

Understand your rights as a tenant

Most states in the U.S. allow landlords to show the rental to potential tenant applicants before their lease ends—but with some important conditions.

The landlord must give the tenant reasonable notice

Landlords can’t just show up unannounced. They must give you reasonable notice before entering. While the exact time frame varies by state, 24 to 48 hours is generally considered fair. Some leases specify this, so check your rent agreement document.

The showings should be during convenient hours

Showings should typically happen during business hours (e.g., 9 AM to 5 PM) unless the tenant agrees to a different time. Late-night or early-morning visits are usually off-limits unless you’ve given permission.

The landlord can’t impose on your time

You have a legal right to quiet enjoyment of your home. This means your landlord or property owner can’t disrupt your life with excessive showings. If they’re scheduling multiple tours daily, you may have grounds to push back.

What should you do if your landlord breaks the rules?

If your landlord:

• Enters without notice.
• Shows up at odd hours.
• Brings too many people through.

You can:

• Politely remind them of the lease terms or state laws.
• Send a written request (email/text works) asking them to follow proper procedures.
• Check local tenant rights organizations if the issue persists.
• In extreme cases, you might have legal recourse—but communication usually resolves most problems.

Read more: What happens if I break my lease on my apartment?

Can you say no to showings?

In most cases, you can’t completely refuse showings if your landlord follows the rules. However, you can negotiate terms, such as:

• Limiting showings to certain days/times.
• Requiring advance notice.
• Requesting that the landlord or real estate agent accompany visitors.

If the tenant agrees to specific conditions, the landlord should respect them.

However, if you unreasonably deny your landlord access to show the property—despite proper notice—you could face serious consequences:

Most leases require tenants to allow showings with notice. Refusing may break your agreement. Your landlord could even take legal action against you. 

They may:

• Start eviction proceedings (forcing you to move out early).
• Sue you for lost rent (if your refusal delays finding a new tenant).
• Charge fines (in some states).

What is the norm in California?

In California, landlords must follow California Civil Code Section 1954 when showing a rental unit to prospective tenants or buyers. They must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entry, specifying the purpose, date, and time. Showings should occur during normal business hours (8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday) unless the tenant agrees otherwise.

While the law does not limit the number of showings, excessive entries could violate the tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment and be considered harassment. For open houses, landlords must give tenants 10 days’ advance notice, and tenants can propose alternative dates within 48 hours. Open houses are generally limited to two per month and should be scheduled on weekends between 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. If disputes arise, tenants can seek guidance from tenant advocacy groups or legal counsel to protect their rights.

What are some useful tips for handling apartment showings while you live there?

If your landlord wants to show your place before you move, here’s how to make it easier:

• Keep the house tidy (but don’t stress): You don’t need a magazine-perfect home, but a little tidying helps. Clear clutter, make the bed, and ensure walkways are clear.
• Secure your valuables: While most prospective tenants are honest, it’s smart to lock away cash, jewelry, or sensitive documents.
• Be present or absent—your choice: You can stay during showings or leave. If you stay, be polite but don’t feel obligated to chat. If you leave, ensure your pets are secured.
• Be courteous and respectful: When your landlord shows the apartment, don’t sabotage the home-selling process—avoid making negative comments about the property or landlord, and stay polite to potential renters. Being professional helps maintain a good relationship and ensures a smoother move-out.
• Document the condition of the rental property: Take photos of the house before and after showings in case of disputes over damages.

Can my landlord show my apartment before I move out: Key takeaway

The situation when a lease is ending is a little tricky: Landlords need to start showing the place to new renters, but you’re still living there. It’s still your home. 

The good news? This doesn’t have to turn into a battle. Whether you’re the landlord or tenant in this situation, knowing the rules and keeping the lines of communication open can make all the difference. 

You can find a way to make those showings work without anyone feeling stepped on. Always review your lease and local laws so you’re prepared. Remember, you can ensure a smoother transition before the next tenant moves in.

Written by Ramona Sinha. March 31, 2025

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.