Are college students protected by Alaska tenancy laws?

Yes, most student renters, including those in private or college-managed housing, are covered by Alaska's Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. On-campus dorms may have special exceptions—consult your school.

How soon do I get my security deposit back in Alaska?

You should receive it within 14 days of move-out if no deductions are made, or within 30 days if deductions for damages or unpaid rent are claimed.

What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?

If you receive a Notice to Quit (CIV-725), you can respond by submitting an Answer to Complaint for Eviction (CIV-735) to the court. This allows you to contest the eviction.

Can I withhold rent if repairs are not made?

Alaska law does allow rent withholding or repair-and-deduct, but only if written notice is properly given to the landlord and timelines are followed.

Where do I get help with unresolved housing complaints?

Contact the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit or your campus legal aid for support with unsafe or unfair housing situations.

Student Housing Rights for College Renters in Alaska

Special Housing Types & Situations Alaska published June 21, 2025

If you're a college student renting an apartment, dorm, or off-campus housing in Alaska, it's important to know your rights as a renter. Student housing rentals are protected under state law, and knowing your protections helps you handle issues like rent increases, eviction, and repairs with confidence. This guide covers key rights and responsibilities for student renters in Alaska—including legislation specifics, official forms, and resources to help if problems arise.

Student Housing Basics in Alaska

Most college student rentals in Alaska—whether dormitories or private apartments—fall under the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This law covers security deposits, required maintenance, rent increases, eviction procedures, and notice periods for all renters, including students.^[1]

Dormitories owned by the college may have specific rules—check with your school’s housing office.
Private apartments, co-ops, student houses, and rooms are covered by state rental protections.
Rooming houses or motels used as year-round housing are generally also protected, unless they qualify as transient lodging.

Key Student Renter Rights

Right to a written rental agreement specifying terms
Protection against unfair rent increases or illegal eviction
Right to repairs and a living space that meets health and safety standards
Right to proper notice before entry or lease changes
Security deposit protections

Your Rental Agreement: What to Look For

Always read and keep a copy of your written lease or rental agreement. It should include:

Rent amount and payment schedule
Deposit details and refund policy
Length of your tenancy (month-to-month or fixed term)
Rules on guests, noise, maintenance responsibilities, and early termination

If any terms seem unfair, ask your college housing office or a legal aid group to review them.

Security Deposits and Move-In/Move-Out Inspections

In Alaska, landlords may require up to two months' rent as a security deposit. You’re entitled to a move-in inspection and must receive an itemized list of deductions at the end of your lease.^[2]

Use the Move-In/Move-Out Condition Checklist provided by your landlord. Ask for a copy filled out by both parties.
Your landlord must return your security deposit (minus legitimate deductions) within 14 days if there’s no damage, or 30 days if there’s damage or unpaid rent.

Repairs and Maintenance

Your landlord must make necessary repairs to keep your home safe and livable. If your apartment needs repair, immediately submit a formal written notice to your landlord describing the issue. If repairs aren’t made within a reasonable time, you may be able to fix the problem yourself and deduct costs from your rent, or even end your tenancy if conditions are unsafe.

Official Repair Request Example

Use the sample Notice to Landlord to Make Repairs found in the Alaska Landlord & Tenant Guide.
Give written notice and keep a copy for your records.

Rent Increases and Eviction Rules

Landlords must follow Alaska law for rent increases and eviction. They must provide written notice:

Rent increases: At least 30 days’ advance written notice for month-to-month rentals
Eviction (Termination of Tenancy): You have rights to receive written notices. Reasons can include non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, or end of rental period.

Official Notices and Forms

Notice to Quit (Form CIV-725): Used by landlords to start eviction. You may respond or contest by contacting the court listed. Download the official CIV-725 Notice to Quit form.
Answer to Complaint for Eviction (Form CIV-735): Used by tenants to respond to eviction lawsuits. Download the official CIV-735 Answer to Complaint form. Submit this to the Alaska court listed on your notice, along with any proof supporting your case.

All eviction cases for students and other renters are handled by the Alaska Court System – Landlord and Tenant Court.^[3]

What to Do if You Need Help

If you face issues with your student rental—like lack of repairs, illegal charges, or eviction threats—reach out to one of the help resources below. Alaska has renter helplines, student legal aid, and free online guides.

Save all written communication with your landlord, and keep signed copies of every form you submit. This can protect you if a dispute goes to court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are college students protected by Alaska tenancy laws?
Yes, most student renters in Alaska—including those in private rentals or school-managed housing—are covered by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Some exceptions may apply to on-campus dormitories—check with your college’s housing office if unsure.
How quickly should I get my security deposit back after move-out?
Your landlord must return your security deposit within 14 days if there are no deductions, or within 30 days if deductions are being made for damages or unpaid rent.
What if my landlord tries to evict me without notice?
Alaska law requires written notice before eviction. If you are given a Notice to Quit (CIV-725), you can submit an Answer to Complaint for Eviction (CIV-735) to the court to contest the eviction.
Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
Alaska law may allow tenants to withhold rent or make repairs and deduct the cost, but you must follow the proper written notice process first as described in the Alaska Tenant Guide.
Where do I report unsafe or unhealthy housing conditions?
First, give your landlord written notice. If conditions aren’t resolved, contact your city’s housing enforcement office or the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit.

Summary: Student Housing Law in Alaska

Student renters have legal rights to secure housing, repairs, and fair eviction process under state law.
Always use Alaska Court System forms for notices and responses.
If you need support, reach out to official government and student legal aid resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alaska Department of Law – Consumer Protection Unit: For complaints and general tenant rights information.
Alaska Court System – Landlord and Tenant Court: All eviction and housing dispute cases.
University of Alaska Fairbanks Student Legal Services: Free legal help for UAF students.
Alaska Landlord & Tenant Guide (Official PDF): Full plain-language guide to your rights and obligations.