North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law

North Dakota is a state that has something for everyone. From the endless sky to bustling city life, North Dakota boasts a high quality of life. It is also a great state to invest in rental property. North Dakota is an extremely tax-friendly state and with people moving out of the big cities to more rural communities, finding tenants won’t pose a problem. For our recommendations on exactly where to invest in this state, take a look at our North Dakota rental investment report – read below for guidance on North Dakota landlord-tenant law.

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Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find North Dakota voting information here.

North Dakota Renters' Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

  • Security deposit maximum is equivalent to one month’s rent
  • Must give a 30-day notice before raising rent
  • Must give reasonable notice before entering 
  • Repair and deduct law is in place

When it comes to North Dakota rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:

  1. Repair and Deduct – In North Dakota, if a repair is needed, the landlord must make the repair within a reasonable amount of time after being notified by the tenant. The definition of “reasonable” depends on what the repair is. If the landlord fails to make the repairs, the tenant may pay for the fix and deduct the price from their next rent payment.
  2. Raising Rent – Landlords may raise rent however much and often they choose, but they must give the tenant a 30-day notice before doing so.
  3. Notice of Entry – North Dakota law states a landlord must provide reasonable notice before entering a rental property. However, the law doesn’t specify what “reasonable” entails. 
  4. Security Deposit – North Dakota has a limit on how much a landlord may charge for a security deposit which is no more than one month’s rent. The deposit must be returned within 30 days. 

North Dakota Landlords' Rights and Tenant Responsibilities

  • No limit on late fees
  • Victims of domestic violence may terminate their lease
  • Tenants must claim abandoned property within 28 days
  • Tenants must maintain the property
  1. Late Fees – If a tenant is late on paying rent, the landlord may charge whatever they deem reasonable. If a check bounces, the landlord may only charge a maximum of $40. 
  2. Special Protections – Victims of domestic violence and/or stalking may terminate their lease early if they provide proof of status to their landlord. 
  3. Abandoned Property – If a tenant leaves behind personal property after they move out, the landlord must send them a written notice giving them 28-days to claim the property. After this period, the landlord may dispose of or sell the property.
  4. Maintaining The Property – Tenants in North Dakota are responsible for keeping the property safe and habitable. They must also make minor repairs and make sure to not disturb neighbors.

North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law FAQ

Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to landlord-tenant laws in North Dakota:

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Can You Withhold Rent in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, you cannot withhold rent for any reason. If a landlord fails to make repairs, the tenant does have the right to repair and deduct. This is where the tenant will pay for repairs and deduct that cost from their next rent payment.  

How Long Does it Take to Evict a Tenant in North Dakota?

The eviction process in North Dakota typically takes anywhere from two to eight weeks. 

Is North Dakota a Landlord-Friendly State?

North Dakota is generally a landlord-friendly state where landlords can charge whatever they deem reasonable for rent and security deposits. Make sure to always check local area laws along with state laws to ensure you’re fully educated.

What is the Eviction Process in North Dakota?

The first step in the eviction process is to serve the tenant with a notice that explains how they violated the lease. After this notice is served, the tenant has three days to either cure their violation or move out. If they do neither, then the landlord can go to the court to file for an eviction.  After the case is filed, the tenant will receive a copy and will be given a date to appear in court. This hearing is where the judge will hear the landlord’s and tenant’s side of the case and then decide whether or not the tenant will be evicted. 

How Much Notice Does a Landlord Have to Give a Tenant to Move Out in North Dakota?

Tenants are entitled to a 30-day notice from the landlord before needing to move out.

Due Diligence and North Dakota Rental Laws

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TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources along with official state statutes in order to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are always in flux, and landlords and tenants alike should be sure to do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a landlord or tenant in North Dakota . Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.

Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws and consult legal counsel should questions arise.

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North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law Resources

North Dakota Fair Housing Resources

Other State Resources

North Dakota Associations

North Dakota City-Specific Housing Resources

Fargo

Grand Forks

Bismarck

Minot

West Fargo

Williston

Federal Fair Housing Resources

 

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