In general, when may a PSO enter a property without prior notice?

• A. In emergencies or when authorized by statute or by-law.
• B. Only with a court order.
• C. For routine maintenance checks.
• D. Never; always with written consent.

Answer: (A)

Entering a property without prior notice is allowed when there is an immediate danger or when the law explicitly authorizes it. This covers emergencies where urgent action is needed to protect people or property, such as a gas leak, a fire hazard, or a concrete risk of collapse that cannot wait for notice. It also includes situations where the Building Code Act, Municipal Act, or a specific by-law gives a PSO authority to enter without notice to conduct inspections or enforce requirements.

In contrast, routine inspections or maintenance checks generally require notice and, if access is refused, the PSO would rely on consent, or a separate legal mechanism such as a warrant. While a court order can authorize entry, it is not the only route, and the general rule is not “never.”