wow i didnt mean to spark a big ol debate over the issues of management entering a rented property with or without the tenants permission. i know my info cuz i've had management of several places flat out tell me that they can and will, if they deem fit, enter the apartment. i've been given the minimum 24 hr notices and ive also had them pop up for random inspections.
i agree however that just cuz they think they can doesnt mean they should.

now timNA - i know you feel its within your rights to own a snake and your most likely right but...the person that snitched to the management said they were gonna do everything in their power to make it so you couldnt have the snake. are you really prepared to go through that cuz the management will take their side over yours if the other tenant raises a big enough fuss.
it sucks. its not fair. i know.
renting a place does not = no rights but sometimes it seems that way.