What indicates a lack of authority to search in a landlord/tenant relationship?

In a landlord/tenant relationship, the tenant's right to privacy and control over their rented space is protected by law. Therefore, a significant factor that indicates a landlord may lack the authority to search the premises is when the tenant is still occupying the space. Tenants maintain a reasonable expectation of privacy, which means the landlord cannot enter or search the property without consent from the tenant or another valid legal reason.

When the premises are still occupied by the tenant, the landlord does not have the unilateral right to conduct searches, as this could violate the tenant's rights. The tenant has the right to refuse access unless there are specific provisions in the lease that allow the landlord to enter, such as for maintenance or inspections, but even these situations typically require advance notice.

Understanding this context clarifies why this choice is the correct indication of a lack of authority for a landlord to perform a search in a property that is occupied by the tenant.