Landlord Entry Laws in Delaware

How much notice does a landlord have to give in Delaware?

Under 25 Del. Code § 5509, landlords in Delaware must give at least 48 hours' advance notice before entering your rental unit for non-emergency purposes. The statute does not require the notice to be in writing, though written notice is better practice.

Even with proper notice, entry is restricted to reasonable hours.

What is your landlord allowed to enter for in Delaware?

Under 25 Del. Code § 5509, permitted entry reasons in Delaware include:

• Repairs and maintenance
• Inspections
• Showing to prospective tenants
• Showing to prospective buyers
• Agreed-upon services
• Emergencies

What counts as an emergency in Delaware?

Emergency entry permitted without notice; police or fire emergencies as well as immediate hazards.

What are your remedies if your landlord enters without notice in Delaware?

If your landlord violates entry rules in Delaware, your remedies under 25 Del. Code § 5509 may include:

• Court order stopping future violations (injunction)
• Right to terminate the lease
• Actual damages

In practice, start by documenting the unauthorized entry (photos, texts, a written log), then send a written objection citing the statute. If violations continue, consult a local tenant-rights attorney or your state's housing court.

Important Delaware-specific notes

Delaware requires 48 hours advance notice for non-emergency entry. Entry window: between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. unless otherwise agreed. Tenant-requested repairs do not require separate 48-hour notice. The statute itself does not enumerate remedies; tenants rely on the broader Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code's general remedies and common-law quiet-enjoyment claims.