When Can Landlords Shut Off Electricity for Non-Payment in Minnesota?

For Minnesota renters, issues around utilities like electricity can be stressful—especially if you've fallen behind on rent or utility payments. Knowing your legal rights and what your landlord can (and cannot) do is essential. Here, we break down when, if ever, a landlord can shut off your electricity for non-payment, explain the key laws that apply, guide you to official complaint forms, and highlight practical steps you can take to stay protected.

Landlords and Utility Shut-Offs: The Law in Minnesota

In Minnesota, the ability of a landlord to shut off electricity or any essential utility is strictly regulated under Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.221 (“Termination of Utility Service by Landlord”)¹. Electric service is considered an essential service. Landlords may not cut off or intentionally diminish utility services—including electricity—except for necessary repairs or emergencies, even if you have not paid rent or a utility bill.

What Your Landlord Cannot Do

• Landlords cannot shut off your electricity as punishment for non-payment of rent or utilities, unless permitted by court order.
• It is illegal for a landlord to reduce or interrupt service to force you out or make you pay.
• Any utility shut-off done to harass, retaliate, or pressure you is prohibited by law.

Minnesota law protects renters strongly on this issue, recognizing electricity as a basic right for health and safety.

When Can Electricity Be Lawfully Interrupted?

• Emergencies or Repairs: Temporary interruptions are lawful if needed for urgent repairs or emergencies, but the landlord must restore services as soon as possible.
• Pursuant to a Court Order: Only if a judge has issued an order specifically allowing a shut-off (for example, after an eviction judgment) can a landlord legally turn off utilities.
• Utility Company Action: If you hold the account with the utility provider and fail to pay your bill directly, the company—not the landlord—may disconnect service (after following proper notice and procedure).

What to Do If Your Landlord Shuts Off Your Electricity

If your landlord unlawfully disconnects or interferes with your electricity, you have clear legal steps to protect your rights.

• Document the Shutoff: Take note of when, how, and for how long the service was stopped. Get photos or videos for proof.
• Contact Your Landlord: Notify them in writing that the shut-off is illegal under Minnesota law.
• File an Emergency Tenant Remedies Action (ETRA): In urgent cases, you can ask the court to order immediate restoration of power and possibly award damages.

Official Form: Emergency Tenant Remedies Action (ETRA)

• Form Name: Emergency Tenant Remedies Action (ETRA)
• When to Use: When electricity or another essential service is shut off unlawfully or not repaired promptly, and prompt court intervention is needed.
• How It Works: You fill out and submit the ETRA form at your local district court; a judge can order the landlord to restore services immediately.
• Download the Emergency Tenant Remedies Action Form (official Minnesota Judicial Branch)

For more information, visit the Minnesota Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Help Topic.

Relevant Tribunal: Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court

The Housing Court (under the Minnesota Judicial Branch) handles residential tenancy disputes, including illegal shut-offs, rent escrow, and repair orders.

Be aware that timelines for getting relief can move quickly in emergency situations—always act as soon as possible if your electricity is interrupted.

Key Laws Protecting Utility Access for Renters

• Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.221 – Termination of Utility Service
• Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Law (Chapter 504B)

These laws reinforce that landlords must provide and maintain essential services—unless allowed otherwise by law or court order.

FAQ

1. Can my landlord ever shut off my electricity if I haven’t paid rent?
   No. In Minnesota, your landlord cannot legally turn off your electricity due to unpaid rent unless ordered by a court.
2. Who do I call if my landlord turns off my electricity illegally?
   You can contact the Housing Court through the Minnesota Judicial Branch, or call Legal Aid for help. Document the shutoff and consider filing an Emergency Tenant Remedies Action.
3. Is my landlord responsible for repairs if a power outage is their fault?
   Yes. If the landlord controls the utility and the outage is due to their failure to maintain or pay, they must fix it promptly.
4. Will I lose electricity if I don’t pay the utility company (not my landlord)?
   If the utility is in your name, only the company can disconnect service, following proper notice procedures—not your landlord.
5. What damages can I recover if my landlord wrongfully shuts off my electricity?
   Under Minnesota law, you may be entitled to compensation, including actual damages and up to $500 per occurrence, plus court costs and attorney’s fees.

Conclusion: What Minnesota Renters Should Remember

• Landlords cannot legally shut off electricity for non-payment without a court order.
• If your power is turned off unlawfully, act quickly—document, notify, and file the proper forms with Housing Court.
• Essential services like electricity are protected in Minnesota, with strong remedies and court processes if your rights are violated.

Staying informed is your best protection. If in doubt, reach out to a legal professional or one of the resources below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Judicial Branch – Landlord and Tenant Help
• LawHelpMN – Minnesota Housing Law Information
• Minnesota Attorney General’s Office – Landlord and Tenant Handbook
• Minnesota Housing Finance Agency – Contact Us

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1. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.221 – Termination of Utility Service
2. Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Laws (Chapter 504B)
3. Minnesota Judicial Branch – Tenant Forms

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