Minnesota Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, guidelines and advocacy in Minnesota
What are the late fee regulations in Minnesota?
Minnesota law allows landlords to charge late fees if specified in the lease agreement. Late fees are limited to 8% of the overdue rent payment. The lease must clearly state the late fee amount and when it will be charged. Landlords cannot charge a late fee until rent is at least three days late. The late fee must be a reasonable estimate of costs the landlord will incur due to the late payment.
What are the rules for security deposits in Minnesota?
Minnesota law limits security deposits to two months' rent. Landlords must return deposits within 21 days after the tenant moves out, along with a written explanation of any deductions. Interest must be paid on deposits at a rate of 1% per year. Landlords must provide written notice of where the deposit is being held. Tenants should document the condition of the unit at move-in and move-out with photos and a written inventory to protect their deposit.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in Minnesota?
Minnesota requires: 1) 14-day notice for non-payment of rent, 2) 30-day notice for lease termination in month-to-month tenancies. Self-help evictions are illegal. Landlords must file an eviction action (unlawful detainer) in court. Tenants have the right to redeem their tenancy by paying all past due rent plus costs before the court hearing. Special protections exist for victims of domestic violence. Cold weather eviction restrictions apply from October 15 through April 15. Tenants may defend against eviction if the landlord has violated the lease or housing codes.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords in Minnesota?
Minnesota law requires landlords to maintain: 1) Building structural elements in good repair, 2) Plumbing, heating, and electrical systems in working order, 3) Weather protection and waterproofing, 4) Safe and sanitary common areas, 5) Pest-free conditions, 6) Compliance with local housing codes. The Minnesota Covenants of Habitability law requires rental properties to be fit for intended use and kept in reasonable repair. Tenants must provide written notice of repair needs. If landlords fail to make repairs within 14 days, tenants may file a rent escrow action, make repairs and deduct costs (up to $500), or file a complaint with local housing authorities.
What notice is required for landlord entry in Minnesota?
Minnesota law requires landlords to provide reasonable notice before entering a rental unit, typically 24 hours, except in emergencies. Entry must be during reasonable hours. The lease should specify notice requirements. Landlords must have a legitimate purpose for entry such as repairs, inspections, or showing the unit. Tenants cannot unreasonably deny access. Unauthorized entry may violate tenant's right to quiet enjoyment and privacy. Some local ordinances may specify minimum notice periods.
What are the rules for rent increases in Minnesota?
Minnesota law requires landlords to provide written notice before increasing rent, typically at least one rental period in advance (30 days for month-to-month tenancies). For fixed-term leases, rent can only be increased at renewal unless specifically allowed in the lease. Rent increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory. Minnesota has no statewide rent control laws, though some municipalities like Minneapolis and St. Paul have enacted rent control ordinances. Landlords must follow local ordinances where applicable and ensure increases are not discriminatory or retaliatory.
What are my rights regarding repairs in Minnesota?
Minnesota tenants have specific repair rights under state law: 1) Notify landlord in writing of needed repairs, 2) Give landlord reasonable time to make repairs (typically 14 days), 3) If landlord fails to make repairs, tenants can exercise 'repair and deduct' rights, withhold rent through rent escrow, or file a complaint with local housing authorities. Minnesota's Housing Law establishes minimum standards for habitability. Tenants must document all repair requests and landlord communications. For serious habitability issues affecting health/safety, tenants may be able to terminate the lease after proper notice.
What are the rules about security deposit deductions in Minnesota?
Minnesota landlords can deduct for: 1) Unpaid rent or utilities, 2) Damage beyond normal wear and tear, 3) Other lease violations. They must return deposits within 21 days of move-out and provide an itemized list of deductions. Security deposits cannot exceed two months' rent and must earn 1% annual interest. Tenants should document the unit's condition at move-in and move-out. Landlords who fail to follow security deposit laws may be liable for up to three times the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees.
What are Minnesota's requirements for smoke detectors?
Minnesota law requires working smoke detectors in all rental units. They must be installed on each floor including basements, outside each sleeping area, and inside each bedroom. Smoke alarms must be UL listed and properly maintained. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in residential properties with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. Landlords must ensure detectors are working at the start of each tenancy. Tenants are typically responsible for testing devices and replacing batteries during their tenancy. Tampering with smoke detectors is illegal under Minnesota law.
What disclosures are required from Minnesota landlords?
Minnesota landlords must disclose: • Lead paint (pre-1978 buildings) as required by federal law • Security deposit terms and financial institution information • Rent control ordinance notice (if applicable) • Property manager/owner contact information • Utility arrangements and responsibilities • Any existing damage or defects • Notice of entry rights • Information about any outstanding code violations • Smoke and carbon monoxide detector compliance • Presence of known environmental hazards • Bedbug infestation history • Crime-free housing addendum (if applicable) • Tenant's rights and obligations under Minnesota law
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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
