Minnesota Renters’ Rights on Pest Infestations

Pest infestations in Minnesota apartments—such as cockroaches, bedbugs, or mice—can impact your health and comfort. If you're facing this problem, it's important to know your rights and the steps you can take under Minnesota law. Understanding pest control responsibilities and using official forms gives you the power to protect your home environment.

Landlord Responsibilities for Pests in Minnesota

Under Minnesota law, landlords must keep rental units fit to live in. This includes making sure your apartment is free from pest infestations. The law states that all residential buildings must be kept in “reasonable repair” and comply with health and safety codes, even if your lease says otherwise. Read the current Minnesota repair and habitability statute for full details.^[1]

• Landlords must address pest problems when notified in writing.
• Regular maintenance is required to keep units safe and sanitary.
• Tenants must keep their unit clean and not contribute to infestations.

Most cities also have local health codes landlords must follow, often enforced by city inspectors.

What Should Minnesota renters Do If They Find Pests?

If you notice signs of pests, act quickly to protect your rights. Here are practical action steps:

• Document the issue: Take photos or videos of the infestation and any damage.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Describe the problem clearly and ask for prompt treatment.
• Keep copies of your emails, letters, and any landlord response.

It is best to use written communication (email or letter) so you have proof of your report.

Which Official Forms Should Renters Use?

If your landlord fails to fix the pest problem after reasonable notice, you have options. Minnesota offers formal steps for renters:

• Rent Escrow Action Affidavit (Form HOU102): This form lets you deposit rent with the court until the problem is resolved. Use it if your landlord ignores your pest complaint. Find the official Rent Escrow Affidavit (HOU102) here and file it with your local district court.^[2]
  
  Example: If you reported bedbugs to your landlord twice with no result, you could file the Rent Escrow Affidavit to involve the court and pause paying rent directly to the landlord until pests are eliminated.
• Repair Orders (Tenant Remedies Action): Use the Tenant Remedies Action if urgent court action is needed for health or safety violations. Forms and instructions are available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.^[3]

Both processes are handled by your county's Minnesota District Courts, the state’s residential tenancy tribunal. They help resolve disputes and enforce repair requirements.

Pest Problems and Minnesota Tenant Law

All residential renters in Minnesota are protected under Minnesota Statutes section 504B.161. This law guarantees that homes must be fit for use and meet health and safety standards, including being free from pests. Landlords who don’t respond to repair requests may face court-ordered repairs or rent payment changes.

What Tenants Should NOT Do

• Do not stop paying rent without legal process (such as official rent escrow).
• Do not attempt major pest control on your own; this is generally a landlord’s duty.
• Do not move out without written documentation and proper legal steps.

FAQ: Common Questions About Pest Infestations in Minnesota Rentals

1. Who is responsible for pest control in Minnesota apartments?
   Landlords are generally responsible for ensuring rental units are free of pests and complying with health and safety rules.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t fix a pest issue?
   No. Instead, use the Rent Escrow Action process to deposit rent with the court until the problem is addressed.
3. What happens if I cause the pest infestation?
   If the infestation is due to a tenant’s actions or neglect, you may be held responsible for the costs of treatment.
4. How long must my landlord take to respond to pest complaints?
   There’s no fixed deadline, but landlords must act in a reasonable time—usually within a few days—especially for health-related issues.
5. Where can I get help filing a repair complaint?
   You can contact the local district court or housing inspectors, or speak to renter advocacy groups for guidance.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Landlords must respond to and resolve pest issues under Minnesota law.
• If ignored, renters can use official forms like Rent Escrow Affidavit (HOU102) and Tenant Remedies Action for help.
• Always use written notice and keep copies for protection.

Act quickly, communicate clearly, and use the legal steps available if your home is affected by pests.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota District Courts Locator – Find your local court to file official rent escrow or repair forms
• Minnesota Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Rights – In-depth rights, complaint forms, and guidance
• LawHelpMN: Repairs in Minnesota – How to address repair and pest problems in rental housing
• Minnesota Department of Health – Healthy Homes Pests – Educational info and local resources

---

1. Minnesota Statutes §504B.161 – Covenants of landlord and tenant
2. Minnesota Rent Escrow Affidavit Form (HOU102)
3. Tenant Remedies Action – Minnesota Judicial Branch

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