What is generally required to search residential properties according to the Fourth Amendment?

To search residential properties in accordance with the Fourth Amendment, a warrant is generally required. This requirement stems from the strong emphasis the Fourth Amendment places on protecting individuals' privacy rights within their homes. The amendment underscores that individuals have the right to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Obtaining a warrant involves law enforcement providing a judge or magistrate with sufficient evidence and demonstrating probable cause—that is, reasonable grounds to believe that evidence of a crime will be found in the location to be searched. This process is designed to ensure that searches are conducted lawfully, allowing for oversight by the judiciary, and helps safeguard against arbitrary actions by the government.

While there are limited exceptions to the warrant requirement, such as exigent circumstances or consent from the property owner, these do not negate the general requirement. Therefore, in the context of the question regarding searching residential properties, the correct answer reflects the standard expectation of requiring a warrant.