The law is not clear on the issue of tenant’s rights to use a mailbox, or get shared or exclusive access to the mailbox on the property. Clearly they have a right to privacy, but with situations where multiple tenants have to use a shared mailbox, this privacy cannot be 100% guaranteed. Some tenants have been successful in applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board to obtain an order that the landlord install a private mailbox for them.

The lease might clarify the rights at the beginning, but if a tenant feels that their privacy is affected, they may feel they have no other option but to ask for keys to the shared mailbox or a private box. Municipal bylaws will also have specific requirements for mailboxes as well.