Minnesota Renters’ Mold Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

Mold can cause serious health issues and damage to rental properties. In Minnesota, renters have clear protections under state law when they discover mold in their living space. Understanding your rights and the proper steps to address mold problems can help you resolve the issue quickly and safely.

Understanding Mold and Rental Property Habitability

Mold often grows in damp or poorly ventilated areas. In Minnesota, all rental units must be maintained to ensure they are “fit for the use intended” and comply with health and safety laws. This standard means landlords have a legal duty to keep your apartment safe and livable, which includes preventing and addressing significant mold issues.

Your Rights as a Minnesota Renter

• Your landlord must keep your apartment or house “fit for occupancy” (Minnesota Statutes § 504B.161).
• You are entitled to prompt repairs when mold threatens your health or the habitability of your unit.
• If your landlord fails to act, you can take legal steps. You have the right to seek action through the Minnesota Housing Court (a division of the District Court).

Tip: Document all mold issues and communications with your landlord as evidence in case you need to escalate the matter.

Steps to Take If You Discover Mold in Your Rental

• Notify Your Landlord in Writing: Tell your landlord about the mold problem as soon as possible. Email or a written letter is best so you have proof of your request.
• Allow Time for Repairs: Minnesota law gives landlords a ‘reasonable time’ to make non-emergency repairs. For urgent situations affecting health, action is expected quickly.
• Get Repairs in Writing: Request a timeline for repairs or removal of mold.
• Gather Evidence: Take photos, note dates, and keep copies of all correspondence.

Taking Legal Action: Tenant Remedies Action

If your landlord does not fix the mold problem, you can file a Tenant Remedies Action (TRA) with Minnesota Housing Court. This legal process lets a renter ask the court to order repairs or reduce rent.

• Form Name: Tenant's Petition for Relief (TRA Form; No official number)
• When to Use: Use this form if you have notified your landlord of mold and repairs have not happened within a reasonable time.
• Example: If you've contacted your landlord twice about black mold in your bathroom and no action has been taken in 10 days, you can file this form with your local Housing Court.
• Download the Tenant's Petition for Relief form here under the “Tenant Remedies Action” section.

Relevant Tribunal in Minnesota

Minnesota does not use a separate residential tenancy board. Instead, housing issues for renters—including mold—are handled by the Minnesota District Court Housing Court.

If your health is in immediate danger due to mold or another serious hazard, contact your city’s local inspections or health department for assistance.

Legislation Protecting Renters

Minnesota renters are protected by the Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Law. This statute requires landlords to:

• Keep properties free from mold that threatens health or safety
• Comply with state and local housing codes
• Respond to maintenance requests and remove hazardous conditions

Learn more about your rights and housing standards at the State of Minnesota’s Tenant Rights page.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mold in Minnesota Rentals

1. Can I withhold rent if my landlord does not fix the mold problem?
   Minnesota law does not allow renters to withhold rent without court approval. Instead, use a Tenant Remedies Action to seek repairs or reduced rent through Housing Court.
2. How long does my landlord have to fix mold problems?
   Landlords must resolve health and safety issues in a "reasonable time," typically as soon as possible, especially if mold affects habitability.
3. What proof do I need about the mold?
   Take dated photos, keep records of all conversations and requests to your landlord, and get any professional diagnosis in writing for your records.
4. Who pays for mold testing and cleanup?
   Unless the mold is caused by tenant behavior (e.g., not ventilating the unit), the landlord is responsible for fixing water leaks, conducting cleanup, and repair costs.
5. Where do I file a complaint if the landlord does nothing?
   File a complaint or Tenant Remedies Action at your local Minnesota District Court Housing Court, or contact your city’s inspections or health department.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota District Court Housing Court: Handles tenant petitions and disputes
• Minnesota Attorney General – Landlord and Tenant Rights
• Minnesota Department of Health – Mold Resources
• Tenant Resources & Rights – Metropolitan Council
• Contact your city or county housing inspector for urgent health or safety concerns

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1. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.161 – Landlord's Covenants of Habitability
2. Minnesota Courts – Housing Court Forms
3. Minnesota Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Rights
4. Minnesota Department of Health: Mold in Homes

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