Montana Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Montana's landlord-tenant law provides balanced protections with specific requirements for security deposits and rental agreements. The state has clear procedures for lease agreements and evictions.
Security Deposit
Limit: No statutory limit on security deposit amounts.
Return Period: 30 days after termination of tenancy, or within 10 days after receiving tenant's forwarding address. Must provide itemized statement of damages.
Rent Increases
30 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.
Entry Notice
24 hours notice required for entry, except in emergencies.
Key Statutes
- Montana Code §70-25-201 - Security Deposits
- Montana Code §70-24-303 - Landlord Obligations
- Montana Code §70-24-312 - Right of Entry
- Montana Code §70-27-101 - Eviction Process
Common Issues
- Not returning deposits within required timeframe
- Failure to provide itemized deductions
- Entering without 24-hour notice
- Not maintaining habitability standards
- Improper eviction procedures