Minnesota Landlord-Tenant Law Guide

Minnesota landlord-tenant law provides balanced protections with specific requirements for security deposits, rent receipts, and property maintenance. The state has detailed statutory provisions and local ordinances in cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul add additional protections.

Security Deposit

Limit: No statutory limit on security deposit amounts.

Return Period: 21 days after tenant vacates and returns keys, or 26 days if withholding any portion. Must provide itemized statement of any deductions.

Rent Increases

No statutory requirement for month-to-month tenancies, but reasonable notice is customary. Minneapolis requires written notice equal to one rental period.

Entry Notice

Reasonable notice required (typically 24 hours), must be during reasonable hours unless emergency.

Key Statutes

  • Minnesota Statutes §504B.178 - Security Deposits
  • Minnesota Statutes §504B.161 - Landlord Duties
  • Minnesota Statutes §504B.211 - Right of Entry
  • Minnesota Statutes §504B.285 - Eviction Actions

Common Issues

  • Not returning deposits within 21 days
  • Failure to provide itemized deductions
  • Entering without reasonable notice
  • Not maintaining heating systems (critical in Minnesota)
  • Retaliatory actions against tenants