North Dakota Cure or Quit Notice Rules for Renters

If you’re renting in North Dakota and receive a notice about a lease violation, it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities. Landlords often use “Cure or Quit” notices to inform tenants about issues and give them time to fix ("cure") the problem before starting an eviction process. This guide explains how Cure or Quit Notices work in North Dakota and steps you can take if you receive one.

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice?

A Cure or Quit Notice is a written notice from your landlord that tells you:

• What lease term or rule you are violating (such as unauthorized pets or late rent)
• How long you have to fix the problem (typically 3 days for most lease violations in North Dakota)
• That failure to comply will lead to possible court eviction proceedings

This notice is required under North Dakota law before a landlord can file an eviction for most lease violations.

Legal Basis for Cure or Quit Notices in North Dakota

Under the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-32.1, landlords must usually provide a written notice for nonpayment of rent or violations other than nonpayment. For other breaches, the standard is a 3-day written notice to cure¹.

When Is a Cure or Quit Notice Used?

Cure or Quit Notices are most commonly used for:

• Failure to pay rent
• Having unauthorized occupants or pets
• Noise or disturbance complaints
• Other violations of the lease or rental agreement

Example: If your rent is overdue, your landlord must first serve a 3-day Notice to Quit for Nonpayment before starting an eviction in court.

Official Form: Notice to Quit (No. not assigned)

• Form Name: Notice to Quit (no official form number assigned)
• When to Use: If you receive this form, it means your landlord is giving official notice that you must either fix the violation (such as pay overdue rent) within the required period, or move out.
• Where to Find: Templates, instructions, and requirements are available from the North Dakota Courts' Landlord-Tenant Self Help Center.

How Much Time Do I Have to Cure a Lease Violation?

For most violations—including nonpayment—North Dakota law requires landlords to give renters at least 3 days’ notice to fix the issue or move out. This can vary for some situations, such as imminent danger to others or illegal activity, which may allow for shorter or immediate action.

Always read your notice carefully to confirm your deadline and what action (payment, repairs, stopping a behavior) is required.

What Happens If I Don’t Cure the Violation or Move Out?

If you do not resolve the problem or move out by the deadline on the Notice to Quit, your landlord can start formal eviction proceedings in a North Dakota district court. This is called an "unlawful detainer" action and is overseen by the North Dakota District Courts, which handle all eviction cases.

How to Respond to a Cure or Quit Notice in North Dakota

• Read the notice fully and note the deadline.
• Take action right away to fix the stated violation, such as paying rent or correcting a lease problem.
• Keep written proof of any steps you take (receipts, communication, or photos).
• If you have questions, contact your landlord in writing and request clarification if needed.
• If you believe the notice is mistaken or your rights are being violated, you may wish to seek legal help or contact a tenant resource center for support.

Timely action is your best protection. Ignoring a notice can result in court eviction proceedings.

Your Rights as a Tenant

• You have the right to receive written notice for most non-criminal lease violations.
• You are entitled to the full notice period to fix the issue before your landlord can file for eviction.
• For more information, review the North Dakota Attorney General's 'Landlord and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities' Guide.

If you aren’t sure whether your landlord followed the law when giving notice or starting an eviction, review the official North Dakota eviction rules or consult an attorney.

FAQs About Cure or Quit Notices in North Dakota

1. How many days’ notice does a landlord need to give for most lease violations in North Dakota?
   Most lease violations require a 3-day written notice to cure or move out before eviction proceedings may begin.
2. Can I be evicted immediately without a Cure or Quit Notice?
   Immediate eviction is generally limited to cases involving illegal activity or serious imminent danger. Most situations require a written notice first.
3. What if I fix the problem after receiving the notice?
   If you cure the violation during the notice period, your landlord cannot evict you for that specific issue.
4. Where can I find North Dakota’s official landlord-tenant laws?
   The North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-32.1 covers eviction and tenant rights.
5. Who handles eviction cases in North Dakota?
   Eviction cases are handled by the North Dakota District Courts.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Cure or Quit Notices give you a chance to fix a lease violation before eviction.
• For most issues, you have at least 3 days to cure or move out under state law.
• Take fast action and keep records if you receive a notice—this may prevent eviction.

If you have concerns or need more information, use the resources in the next section.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Courts Landlord-Tenant Self Help Center – Guides, forms, and court process info
• ND Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities – Detailed consumer protections and lease info
• Legal Services of North Dakota – Free and low-cost legal help for eligible renters
• North Dakota District Courts – Find your local court handling eviction cases

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1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-32.1: Eviction of Tenants (Unlawful Detainer)
2. North Dakota Courts Landlord-Tenant Self Help Center
3. ND Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Guide

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