Minnesota Residential Lease Disclosure Requirements Explained

Understanding what landlords are legally required to disclose in a Minnesota residential lease helps renters make informed decisions, avoid surprises, and protect their rights. This article breaks down the current disclosure requirements, highlights important forms, and points to official resources for Minnesota renters.

What Landlords Must Disclose in Minnesota Residential Leases

Landlords are legally required to share certain information before a renter signs a lease. These disclosures help ensure transparency and prevent misunderstanding between renters and landlords.

Key Required Disclosures in Minnesota

• Landlord or Agent Identity: Landlords must identify themselves, or any agents who manage the property, in writing. This includes an address for notice and communication.^[1]
• Outstanding Inspection Orders: If there are any uncorrected housing code inspection orders, the landlord must provide a copy to the renter before or at lease signing. For example, if a city inspector found electrical issues that aren't fixed yet, this must be shared.
• Disclosure of Fees: All non-refundable fees (e.g., cleaning fees) must be stated in writing in the lease.^[2]
• Foreclosure Notice: If the property is in foreclosure, landlords must notify renters in writing before accepting rent or signing a lease.^[3]
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For rentals built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to provide specific information about lead hazards, using the "Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards" form. Get the federal lead-based paint disclosure form here.
• DRAFT Inspection Orders: For properties in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, extra disclosure is needed if there are existing draft orders for code violations. Check your city's ordinances for details.
• Notice of Written Lease Rights: If a tenant pays a security deposit or pre-lease fees, the landlord must tell them in writing about their right to a written lease and provide the lease for review before signing.^[1]

These disclosures equip renters with essential information before they commit to a lease, ensuring a fair rental agreement.

Important Forms for Minnesota Renters

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (EPA Form): Required for rentals built before 1978. Landlords must complete and give renters a copy before lease signing.
  When used: If you're renting an older home or apartment, ask your landlord for this form before moving in.
  Official EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Form
• City Housing Code Orders: Cities like Minneapolis provide official records of code violations. Renters can request copies or view reports online.
  When used: Before signing, ask the landlord for documentation, or check your city's housing department for records.
  Minneapolis Property Housing Information

Where Issues Are Decided: The Tribunal for Renters in Minnesota

Disputes between renters and landlords in Minnesota are typically handled by your local Housing Court, a division of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. These courts handle eviction (unlawful detainer), repair orders, and other rental disputes.

What Happens If Required Disclosures Aren't Made?

If a landlord fails to provide these disclosures, renters may have protections under Minnesota’s rental laws. In some cases, you may be able to:

• Cancel or withhold from signing a lease
• Request written disclosures before paying any deposits or rent
• Seek remedies in Housing Court

Always keep a record of communication and seek written disclosures for your files.

Your Rights Under Minnesota’s Tenant-Landlord Law

The main legislation protecting renters in Minnesota is Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant. This set of laws covers lease rules, disclosures, deposit handling, and much more.

FAQs: Minnesota Lease Disclosure Rules

1. What if my landlord didn’t tell me about code violations before I signed?
   Landlords must disclose active uncorrected inspection orders. If this wasn’t shared, you can request a copy and may have the right to take action in Housing Court.
2. Can my landlord charge fees that aren’t in the lease?
   No, all non-refundable fees must be disclosed in the written lease. Fees not listed can be challenged.
3. I’m renting a unit in a building from before 1978. Should I get a lead paint disclosure?
   Yes. Landlords are required by federal law to give renters a lead-based paint disclosure before move-in for these buildings.
4. Where do I take disputes about disclosures?
   Most rental disputes are decided by your local Housing Court, part of the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
5. What law protects my rights as a Minnesota renter?
   Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant is the primary law protecting your rights.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Minnesota law requires landlords to disclose important information, including identity, active inspection orders, certain fees, and lead paint risks.
• Always get a written lease and copies of any required forms or disclosures.
• If disclosures are missing, check with Housing Court or consult tenant resources listed below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court: Handles rental disputes statewide.
• Minnesota Attorney General’s Office – Landlord & Tenant Guide: Comprehensive, plain-language resource on renter rights.
• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant: Full legal text for reference.
• Tenant Resource Center: Advocacy, advice, and support (regional and local options listed).

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1. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.181 – Disclosure of ownership; identification of landlord and agents. See Section 504B.181 Disclosure law
2. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.173 – Limitation on nonrefundable fees. Read Section 504B.173
3. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.151 – Notice of foreclosure. Review Section 504B.151

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