How much notice must a lessor give to a lessee prior to entering the unit if there is not an emergency?

The requirement for a lessor to provide notice to a lessee prior to entering the rental unit, barring an emergency, is typically set at 24 hours. This notice period is designed to respect the privacy of the tenant while allowing the landlord access for necessary inspections, repairs, or other business related to the property.

Providing 24 hours of notice strikes a balance between the landlord’s need to manage the property effectively and the lessee’s right to quiet enjoyment of their home. This period allows the tenant to prepare for the landlord's visit or to be present during the entry if they wish.

In contexts where longer notice periods such as 1 week or 72 hours are suggested, these durations would likely be seen as excessive in most jurisdictions regarding standard landlord-tenant relations unless specifically stated in the lease agreement. Additionally, stating that no notice is required would undermine the tenant's right to privacy and the provisions typically present in landlord-tenant laws which emphasize the need for prior notification in non-emergency situations.