How to Write a Demand Letter to Your Landlord in Minnesota

Having trouble with your landlord in Minnesota—maybe over repairs, a deposit refund, rent increases, or eviction threats? One of the strongest tools at your disposal is a written demand letter. In Minnesota, sending a demand letter is not just good practice—it’s often your first step before seeking formal legal remedies. This guide walks you through writing an effective demand letter under Minnesota law, making your concerns clear and setting the stage for fair resolution.

What Is a Demand Letter and When Should You Use One?

A demand letter is a formal, written request asking your landlord to resolve a specific problem, such as making repairs, returning a security deposit, or correcting a lease violation. In Minnesota, demand letters often serve as required notice before you can take further action, like filing a court claim or complaint with housing authorities.

• Requesting habitable living conditions or urgent repairs
• Disputing wrongful rent increases or charges
• Seeking return of a security deposit after moving out
• Contesting illegal eviction notices

What Should Be Included in a Minnesota Demand Letter?

Your demand letter should be clear, polite, and specific. Minnesota law does not require a special form for demand letters, but including certain elements ensures it is effective and legally valid.

• Your full name, rental address, and contact information
• The date you are writing the letter
• A clear description of the problem (e.g., “Heat not working in the apartment since January 1”)
• References to relevant Minnesota law, such as requirements under the Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Law (Chapter 504B)
• The specific action you want your landlord to take and a reasonable deadline (usually 7–14 days)
• A brief explanation of what steps you may take if not resolved (such as making a complaint or seeking mediation)
• A polite but firm tone—avoid insults or threats

Sample Demand Letter Example

While there is no official state form, here’s how your demand letter could be structured:

Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing about [describe the issue briefly, e.g., a broken heater], which has not yet been resolved despite my previous notices. I request that you fix the problem within 7 days as required under Minnesota Statute 504B.161.
If this issue is not addressed by [specific date], I may exercise my right to file a rent escrow action or seek help from Minnesota’s housing court.
Please contact me to confirm when the repair will be made.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]

How to Deliver Your Demand Letter

Delivery matters! To protect yourself, always:

• Send your letter by certified mail or another trackable method
• Keep copies of your letter and any delivery confirmation
• Follow up with an email or a second copy hand-delivered to your landlord if possible

What Official Forms or Departments Are Involved?

Minnesota does not offer a standardized demand letter form. However, if your landlord fails to act after your letter, you may use these official forms:

• Rent Escrow Action (Form CON111): Use this form to ask the court to order repairs if basic services (like heat, water, or locks) are not provided. You must show that you asked your landlord to fix the problem first, usually with a demand letter. Access Minnesota Rent Escrow Forms here.
• Conciliation Court Claim Form (Form CONC111): For recoverable damages or disputes under $15,000 (like unreturned security deposits), you may file a claim if your written demand is ignored for at least 14 days. View Conciliation Court Forms on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

The main tribunal for residential tenancy matters in Minnesota is the Housing Court division of the Minnesota Judicial Branch, which operates in select counties including Hennepin and Ramsey.

What Laws Protect Renters When Writing a Demand Letter?

• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B covers all key landlord-tenant rights, including repairs, deposits, rent increases, and eviction.
• If you’re seeking return of your security deposit, see Section 504B.178.
• For maintenance and habitability, refer to Section 504B.161.

Action Steps: How to Write and Send Your Demand Letter in Minnesota

• Write a detailed, polite letter explaining the problem, your request, and your expectations.
• Reference any applicable Minnesota laws (like Section 504B.161 for repairs).
• Set a clear deadline for response—usually 7–14 days.
• Send the letter via certified mail and keep copies for your records.

If you do not receive a response, you may proceed to file a Rent Escrow Action or take your claim to Conciliation Court, attaching your demand letter as proof.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I have to send a demand letter before taking my landlord to court in Minnesota?
   Yes. Most Minnesota courts require proof that you properly notified your landlord in writing before you can file an action for repairs or damages.
2. What if my landlord ignores my demand letter?
   You may file a claim in Housing Court or Conciliation Court, attaching your letter as evidence that you tried to resolve the issue first.
3. Is there a specific form for demand letters in Minnesota?
   No, but your letter should be clear, detailed, and reference relevant Minnesota law.
4. How long should I give my landlord to respond?
   A reasonable timeframe is 7–14 days, depending on the urgency and nature of the problem.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Demand letters set the foundation for resolving rental issues and preserve your legal rights in Minnesota.
• Reference Minnesota Statutes and keep full records of all written communications.
• If your landlord does not act, use official Rent Escrow or Conciliation Court forms and your letter as evidence.

Taking these steps can help you resolve disputes efficiently and protect your rights as a Minnesota renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General: Landlords and Tenants Handbook
• Minnesota Housing Court: Landlord-Tenant Help Topic
• LawHelpMN: Free Legal Information and Assistance
• Minnesota Housing Finance Agency

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1. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
2. Minnesota Rent Escrow (CON111) form
3. Minnesota Conciliation Court (CONC111) form
4. Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court
5. Minnesota Attorney General: Handbook for Landlords and Tenants

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