What should I do before filing a complaint in Minnesota?

Always contact your landlord in writing about the issue and keep a record. If it isn't fixed, contact your city housing office before turning to the court.

Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't repair my apartment?

No, you must pay your rent to the court with a Rent Escrow Action. Never just stop paying rent directly to your landlord.

What if my landlord tries to evict me after I complain?

Minnesota law prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who file complaints or enforce their legal rights.

Where do I file landlord-tenant forms in Minnesota?

Forms are filed at your local Minnesota District Court. You can find your nearest court location on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

Is there a fee to file a complaint against my landlord?

Yes, but you may qualify for a waiver. Use the Motion to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (fee waiver) if you need help with filing costs.

How to File a Landlord Complaint in Minnesota

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Minnesota published: June 21, 2025

If you're a renter in Minnesota and facing problems like maintenance delays, rent increases, or concerns about your landlord's conduct, you have rights and options for taking action. Minnesota law protects tenants from unfair treatment and gives you the ability to formally file complaints about housing conditions, lease violations, and more. Understanding the process and your legal protections can help you resolve issues effectively and safeguard your home.

Know Your Renter Rights in Minnesota

Renters in Minnesota are covered by the Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant, which outlines your rights and your landlord's responsibilities. If your rental isn't being maintained, or if you feel your rights are being violated, you may be able to seek help through state and local agencies.

When Should You File a Complaint?

Filing a complaint against your landlord can be appropriate for issues such as:

Lack of repairs or unsafe living conditions
Unlawful eviction or non-renewal of lease without cause
Improper rent increases or fee charges
Violation of privacy or harassment

Start by notifying your landlord in writing about the concern. If it isn't resolved after a reasonable time, you may escalate the issue.

Step-by-Step: How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord

Here’s a clear process to help you organize and submit your complaint. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of a fair resolution.

1. Communicate and Document

Notify your landlord in writing (email or letter) about the issue.
Keep copies of all communication, photos, and receipts as evidence.

2. Contact Local Health or Housing Inspection

For urgent health, safety, or habitability concerns, contact your city's housing inspector or code enforcement office. For example, Minneapolis renters can report housing violations to Minneapolis Regulatory Services. St. Paul residents can reach out to St. Paul Department of Safety and Inspections.

3. Filing With Minnesota District Court

If the issue isn’t fixed, you may file an official complaint with the court using a process called an “Emergency Tenant Remedies Action” or a "Rent Escrow Action." These are handled by the Minnesota Judicial Branch (the state's official tribunal for residential tenancy matters).

Emergency Tenant Remedies Action (Form: Petition for Emergency Relief – HOU102): For urgent repairs affecting health or safety.
Petition for Emergency Relief (HOU102)
Use this form if your landlord refuses necessary repairs that affect your safety or health, such as no heat in winter.
Rent Escrow Action (Form: Rent Escrow Action Affidavit – HOU102): For less urgent issues or ongoing repair disputes.
Rent Escrow Action Affidavit
If your landlord hasn't made repairs after written notice, you may pay your rent to the court instead of your landlord until the problem is fixed.

Both forms are filed at your local district court. Find court locations at the Minnesota Judicial Branch website. You’ll need to bring supporting documents and may be asked to pay a filing fee (fee waivers are available if you have limited income).

Your Rights During the Complaint Process

Under Minnesota law, landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for exercising their rights, such as by filing a complaint or contacting a city inspector. If you face retaliation, such as threats of eviction, you may have grounds for further legal action.
For additional details, review the section on eviction protections in Minnesota Statutes §504B.285.

If you're unsure about the next step, ask for help from free legal resources or city offices listed below. Acting promptly protects your rights and helps resolve issues faster.

Forms You May Need

Petition for Emergency Relief (HOU102): Used for urgent health and safety repairs.
Download from the Minnesota Judicial Branch
Rent Escrow Action Affidavit (HOU102): Used when you need the court’s help to resolve ongoing repair issues.
Get the form and instructions here
Motion to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP102): If you cannot afford court fees.
Apply for a fee waiver

FAQ: Renters' Common Questions

What should I do before filing a complaint in Minnesota? Always contact your landlord in writing about the issue and keep a record. If the problem isn't fixed, contact your city housing office before going to court.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't repair my apartment? In Minnesota, you must pay your rent to the court (not your landlord) by filing a Rent Escrow Action. Never simply stop paying rent.
What if my landlord tries to evict me after I complain? Minnesota law prohibits retaliation against tenants who make a good-faith complaint or enforce their rights.
Where do I file landlord-tenant forms in Minnesota? File all official tenant remedy and rent escrow forms at your local district court. Locations and details are available on the Minnesota Judicial Branch Find Courts page.
Is there a fee to file a complaint against my landlord? Yes, but you may request a fee waiver with the Motion to Proceed In Forma Pauperis form if you qualify based on income.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

Minnesota law protects renters who file complaints or seek remedies for unsafe or unfair conditions.
Use official court forms and contact your city housing office for help before filing a formal court complaint.
Keep records, act quickly, and know that free legal help is available.

Addressing problems early and following the right steps can make the process less stressful and protect your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Minnesota Judicial Branch: Housing Court – Official information and forms
Minnesota Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Rights
LawHelpMN – Free legal information and help for renters
For local health/code complaints: Contact your city or county housing inspection office