Minnesota Laws on Automatic Lease Renewals: What Renters Need to Know

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a renter in Minnesota is essential, especially when it comes to automatic lease renewals. If you're unsure what happens when your lease is about to expire, it's important to know how Minnesota law treats automatic renewals, landlord notice requirements, and what steps to take if you don’t want your lease to continue. This guide uses plain language to help Minnesota renters feel confident about their options, from required notices to official state resources.

How Automatic Lease Renewals Work in Minnesota

In Minnesota, many rental agreements include automatic renewal clauses. This means your lease could continue for another term if neither you nor your landlord gives notice to end or change it. The law protects renters by outlining clear requirements for advance notice of renewal conditions, including any rent increases or changes to lease terms.

Notice Requirements for Landlords

According to Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.145, landlords must follow strict rules about notice when a lease contains an automatic renewal clause. The key requirements are:

• Landlords must provide written notice to tenants if a lease will automatically renew for more than two months unless the tenant objects.
• The notice must be delivered between 15 and 30 days before the deadline for the tenant to object to renewal.
• If the landlord fails to provide this notice, the automatic renewal clause may not be enforceable.

As a renter, always check your lease for an automatic renewal section, and keep records of any notices you receive.

What to Do if You Don’t Want Your Lease to Renew

If you do not want your lease to renew automatically, you generally need to give the landlord written notice according to the timelines set in your lease. Minnesota law requires that you follow the notice terms in your agreement—usually 30 or 60 days before renewal—but always consult your lease for the specific requirement.

Relevant Official Forms

• Notice to Vacate (no official state-wide number): Used when a renter wishes to end the lease to prevent automatic renewal.
  Example: If your lease renews on June 1, and your lease requires 30 days' notice, deliver this notice by May 1.
  Download a blank template or get advice from the Minnesota Attorney General's Office.
• Notice of Lease Nonrenewal (landlord-issued; not a standardized form): Landlords may issue this if they do not intend to renew your lease. Always read the notice carefully, and contact the Attorney General’s Landlord and Tenant Handbook if you have questions.

Currently, Minnesota does not have a state-wide, mandatory lease nonrenewal form for tenants, so written communication is accepted. Always date and sign your notice.

Who Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes?

In Minnesota, disputes relating to rental agreements, including notices about automatic renewal, are generally handled through the district court in the county where the rental property is located. See the Minnesota Judicial Branch Housing Court resources for more information and guidance on how to file or respond to actions related to your tenancy.

What Does the Law Say?

• Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.145: Automatic Renewal of Leases
• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B: Landlord and Tenant

These statutes specify what is required for automatic lease renewal and the notice landlords must give to tenants.

Frequently Asked Questions: Automatic Lease Renewal in Minnesota

1. Does my lease automatically renew in Minnesota?
   It depends on your lease terms. Many leases have clauses allowing automatic renewal unless either party provides written notice to end the tenancy.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give about lease renewal?
   For automatic renewals longer than two months, landlords must give between 15 and 30 days’ notice before the deadline to object, as required by law.
3. What happens if my landlord doesn’t send a renewal notice?
   If your landlord fails to give proper notice as required, the automatic renewal clause may not be legally enforceable.
4. How do I prevent my lease from renewing automatically?
   Send your landlord a dated, written notice indicating you do not wish to renew before the deadline specified in your lease agreement.
5. What if I want to dispute an automatic renewal?
   You may bring your dispute to your local district court, using Minnesota Housing Court procedures. Always keep records and seek legal advice if needed.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Most automatic lease renewals must include clear notice from the landlord, especially for renewals longer than two months.
• Always review your lease and respond in writing if you do not wish to renew.
• If you have concerns or receive improper notice, Minnesota Housing Court and the Attorney General’s Office are available resources.

Staying informed will help you avoid unwanted lease renewals and protect your rights as a Minnesota renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court (for dispute resolution)
• Minnesota Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Handbook (for comprehensive legal guidance and sample forms)
• Minnesota Housing (housing resources and support)
• Local legal aid resources: Dial 2-1-1 or visit LawHelpMN

---

1. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.145: Automatic Renewal of Leases
2. Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court
3. Minnesota Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Handbook
4. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B: Landlord and Tenant

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations