North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law Guide

North Dakota'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: 1 month's rent for security deposits, or $2,500 if no monthly rent is specified.

Return Period: 30 days after termination of tenancy. Must provide itemized statement of damages. If landlord fails to comply, tenant may recover damages.

Rent Increases

30 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.

Entry Notice

Reasonable notice required, typically 24 hours except in emergencies.

Key Statutes

  • North Dakota Century Code §47-16-07.1 - Security Deposits
  • North Dakota Century Code §47-16-13 - Landlord Obligations
  • North Dakota Century Code §47-16-07.3 - Right of Entry
  • North Dakota Century Code §33-06-01 - Eviction Process

Common Issues

  • Charging deposits above legal limits
  • Not returning deposits within 30 days
  • Failure to provide itemized deductions
  • Entering without reasonable notice
  • Not maintaining habitability standards