North Dakota Apartment Bedbug Disclosure Laws Explained

As a renter in North Dakota, understanding your rights regarding bedbug disclosures can make moving into a new apartment safer and less stressful. While bedbug infestations are a common concern in rental housing across the country, state laws vary when it comes to landlord responsibilities and disclosure requirements. This guide highlights what North Dakota law requires, what to do if you discover bedbugs, and links you to the official resources you need.

What Are Bedbug Disclosure Laws in North Dakota?

North Dakota law currently does not require landlords to provide a specific written disclosure about the presence or history of bedbugs when you move into an apartment. However, landlords have general obligations to keep rental properties safe and sanitary. If bedbugs are discovered after you move in, the landlord is typically expected to act within a reasonable time to address the problem.

Landlord Responsibilities About Bedbugs

Under North Dakota Century Code, landlords must:

• Comply with applicable building and housing codes affecting health and safety
• Make all repairs necessary to keep the property in a fit and habitable condition
• Keep common areas clean and safe

While not mentioned by name in state law, bedbug infestations fall under these general repair and habitability requirements set by the North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.1¹.

Required Inspections and Disclosure Documents

North Dakota does not have an official statewide bedbug disclosure or inspection form for new tenants. Unlike some other states, you are not entitled to a specific bedbug notice at move-in. However, you are encouraged to do a walk-through inspection and document any issues found. If you spot signs of bedbugs, notify your landlord immediately in writing.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (No Official Form Number): While not required by law, it is a good practice to complete a checklist with your landlord when moving in. You can request or create your own documenting the condition of the apartment. Reference the ND Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide for more information.
• Written Notice of Repairs Needed: If you discover bedbugs, submit a repair request in writing to your landlord. This acts as your first formal notice. There is no required format; use a dated, signed letter or email.

Documenting the condition of the apartment at move-in and providing written notice if you find bedbugs helps protect your rights as a tenant. If your landlord is unresponsive, you may have further options (see "Help and Support" below).

If Your Landlord Fails to Act

If your landlord does not act within a reasonable time to resolve a bedbug issue after notification, you may be able to seek help from the North Dakota State Court System, which resolves disputes under landlord-tenant law. You also retain the right to file a claim for damages or, in some circumstances, terminate your lease.

Where Can I Learn More?

• North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide by the Attorney General
• Full text of state rental law: North Dakota Century Code Title 47, Chapter 16.1
• Rental disputes are handled in state district court

FAQ: North Dakota Bedbug Disclosure and Renter Rights

1. Do landlords have to tell renters about prior or current bedbug infestations?
   No, North Dakota law does not require landlords to disclose bedbug history, but landlords must provide habitable housing.
2. What should I do if I find bedbugs after moving in?
   Notify your landlord in writing promptly, keep copies, and request immediate treatment or repairs.
3. Who pays for bedbug treatment in a North Dakota apartment?
   This depends on the cause and lease terms, but typically it is the landlord’s obligation if you did not cause the infestation.
4. Can I break my lease if the bedbug problem is not resolved?
   In some cases, unresolved health and safety problems may give you the right to end your lease, but seek legal advice first.
5. Which agency oversees rental disputes in North Dakota?
   The North Dakota State Court System handles landlord-tenant disputes.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Landlords must provide habitable housing, which includes prompt action against bedbug infestations.
• There is no law requiring bedbug disclosure, but documenting problems and reporting them quickly is crucial.
• For unresolved issues, seek legal help or contact the North Dakota courts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General - Landlord/Tenant Rights
• North Dakota State Court System (District Court) – handles tenant complaints and disputes
• North Dakota Department of Human Services – for additional housing referrals
• For legal assistance, consider contacting North Dakota Legal Services (official site)

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1. North Dakota Century Code Title 47, Chapter 16.1 – Landlord and Tenant Obligations
2. ND Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights
3. North Dakota State Court System

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