Minnesota Bedbug Disclosure Rules for Apartment Renters

If you're moving into a Minnesota apartment, understanding your rights around bedbug disclosures is essential. The state has specific laws requiring landlords to inform renters about any known bedbug infestations. Knowing what must be disclosed, which forms are needed, and what to do if you suspect a violation helps protect your health and tenancy rights.

What Landlords Must Disclose About Bedbugs in Minnesota

In Minnesota, landlords are legally required to notify prospective tenants about any known bedbug infestations in a rental unit. This is part of broader state regulations designed to ensure safe and habitable living conditions.

• Landlords must disclose if any unit in the building is currently infested with bedbugs.
• Disclosure must be made in writing before a lease is signed.
• These requirements are outlined in the Minnesota Statutes, specifically Minnesota Statutes § 504B.161 – Landlord's Duty to Maintain Premises and § 504B.185 – Disclosure of Environmental Information.¹

This helps renters make informed decisions and protects them from unknowingly moving into a unit with ongoing pest problems.

Official Forms for Bedbug Disclosure

While Minnesota does not have a standardized statewide "bedbug disclosure" form, written disclosure is mandatory whenever a landlord knows about a current infestation. Many landlords use local or custom forms to document this disclosure. Renters should ensure that any disclosures are signed and dated, and request a copy for their records.

• Sample Form Name: Rental Unit Condition and Bedbug Disclosure (not a required standard statewide form)
• Example Use: Your landlord gives you a written notice before move-in, stating whether bedbugs have been discovered in the building or your specific unit.
• Where to Find: While Minnesota does not provide an official downloadable form, you can find more about rental disclosures at the Minnesota Attorney General's Landlords and Tenants Guide.²

If you need clarification about disclosures or didn't receive information in writing, reach out to your landlord or review local city requirements, which may have additional forms or policies.

When and How Are Bedbug Disclosures Made?

Landlords must provide bedbug disclosures before lease signing, and always in writing. It is recommended to get this disclosure as a separate document or as an addendum to your lease agreement.

• Ask for bedbug disclosure in writing if not provided automatically.
• If a disclosure states "no known infestation," and you find evidence after moving in, notify your landlord promptly in writing.

What To Do If You Suspect a Bedbug Problem After Moving In

If you believe your apartment has bedbugs and there was no disclosure, or if an infestation appears after move-in, you have several options:

• Promptly inform your landlord in writing of the suspected problem.
• Request a professional inspection and ask for the inspection report in writing.
• If not addressed, you can report the issue to your local health department or municipal housing inspector.

Relevant Legislation and Tribunal

Minnesota's landlord-tenant laws are found in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant. For formal disputes, such as if a landlord fails to provide proper disclosure or address infestations, renters may apply to the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) for a hearing.⁴

Bedbug Disclosure: Practical Steps for Minnesota Renters

• Before signing any lease, ask for written documentation about any bedbug history.
• Keep a copy of all disclosures and communications with your landlord.
• Report suspected infestations to both your landlord and local authorities promptly.
• If issues persist, consult your local housing authority or the OAH for further help.

Being proactive will help you maintain a healthy, safe rental environment in Minnesota. Protect your rights by staying informed about all disclosure requirements.

FAQ: Bedbug Disclosure and Renters' Rights in Minnesota

1. Are landlords in Minnesota required to tell renters about past or current bedbug infestations?
   Yes. Minnesota law requires landlords to inform potential renters in writing if there is a known bedbug infestation in the building or unit before the lease is signed.
2. What should I do if my landlord didn't disclose a bedbug infestation?
   Notify your landlord in writing about the issue, request prompt treatment, and keep all correspondence. If not resolved, report to your local housing inspector or the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings.
3. Is there an official Minnesota government bedbug disclosure form?
   No, but landlords are required to make written disclosures. Ask for any documentation in writing and ensure it is signed and dated.
4. Can I break my lease if there is a bedbug infestation?
   Depending on circumstances, you may have grounds to break your lease if the landlord does not remedy the problem within a reasonable time frame. Consult Chapter 504B or your local housing authority for guidance.
5. Who handles complaints about landlord-tenant issues in Minnesota?
   The Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) handles formal complaints and hearings for residential tenancy disputes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Landlords must disclose any known bedbug infestations before move-in, in writing.
• Keep copies of disclosures and communicate promptly in writing if issues arise.
• Contact housing authorities or the OAH if your landlord fails to resolve significant problems.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding bedbug disclosures keeps your living space safer and supports a positive rental experience in Minnesota.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General – Landlords and Tenants Guide (Clear explanations of rights and sample letters)
• Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) (Tenant dispute resolution and tribunal)
• Minnesota Department of Health: Bed Bug Information (Tips and reporting contacts)
• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant (Full text of tenancy laws)
• Contact your local city or county housing office for inspections and local ordinances

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1. Minnesota Statutes § 504B.161 – Landlord's Duty to Maintain Premises
2. Minnesota Attorney General Landlords and Tenants Handbook
3. Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings
4. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant

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