How to Recognize and Avoid Affordable Housing Scams in North Dakota

Finding affordable housing in North Dakota can be a challenging process. Unfortunately, some scammers try to take advantage of renters searching for low-cost rental options. Knowing the warning signs of affordable housing scams and understanding your rights under North Dakota law can help keep your money safe and ensure you find a legitimate place to call home.

Common Affordable Housing Scams in North Dakota

Understanding the types of scams targeting renters is the first step in protecting yourself. Here are some of the most common rental scams in North Dakota:

• Fake Listings: Scammers post rental ads for properties that don't exist or are already occupied, asking for deposits upfront.
• Phantom Landlords: Fraudsters pose as the property owner or agent and request personal information or payments before allowing you to view the property.
• Rental Application Fee Scams: A fake landlord demands non-refundable application or background check fees but never provides access to a rental.
• Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: Extremely low rent, high-pressure tactics, or requests to wire money can signal a scam.

Legitimate landlords and property managers should always be able to prove ownership and encourage you to view the property before exchanging money.

Red Flags: How to Spot a Rental Scam

• Requests for payment by wire transfer, prepaid cards, or cash
• The landlord is “out of the country” or refuses to meet in person
• No opportunity to see the unit before paying
• Rental price is far below market value
• No formal rental agreement or lease is provided

Your Rights Under North Dakota Law

Renters in North Dakota are protected by the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 – Landlords and Tenants. This legislation requires landlords to provide truthful information about available units and prohibits collecting payments under false pretenses¹.

If you are asked to pay fees or deposits, make sure you get receipts, a written lease, and the landlord's contact information. You are entitled to a signed copy of your lease, per state law.

Official Forms for Reporting Rental Fraud

North Dakota does not have a specialized state-wide rental fraud form, but renters can take action through the following:

• North Dakota Consumer Complaint Form
  Download: Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)
  When and How It's Used: Use this form if you believe you have been scammed by a landlord or rental agent. For example, if you paid a deposit on a non-existent property, fill out and submit this form to the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
  Learn more about filing a complaint.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in North Dakota?

Legal disputes about tenancies, including scams, are typically handled by the North Dakota state court system. For help with landlord-tenant issues, including fraud, you can contact your local district court. Visit the North Dakota Courts Directory to find your local court’s contact details.

What To Do If You Suspect a Scam

• Stop all communication and do not send money or personal information.
• Collect and save all email, text, or messaging records with the individual.
• File a complaint with the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division using their official form.
• Report the scam to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (reportfraud.ftc.gov).
• If you have lost money, contact your bank or payment provider right away.

Quick action can sometimes stop fraudulent transactions and help law enforcement investigate ongoing scams.

Frequently Asked Questions: Affordable Housing Scams in North Dakota

1. How do I know if a rental listing is legitimate?
   Always request to tour the property in person, avoid landlords who refuse to meet, and look up ownership through county property records or ask for proof of property management authority.
2. Is it legal for a North Dakota landlord to ask for a security deposit before signing a lease?
   Landlords may request deposits, but you should never pay before seeing the unit and receiving a written lease. Get all payments in writing and receipts for your records.
3. Where do I report a suspected housing scam?
   File a complaint with the North Dakota Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division and your local police department. See the resources below for links.
4. What steps can I take if I already sent money to a scammer?
   Contact your bank or payment provider immediately to try to stop the transaction, report it to local law enforcement, and file an official Consumer Complaint Form.

Conclusion: Staying Safe as a North Dakota Renter

• Verify every rental and landlord before sending money or personal details.
• North Dakota offers protections under state law, and official complaint processes are available for scam victims.
• When in doubt, use official resources and contact trusted agencies for help.

Being proactive and informed can help you avoid scams and protect your rights as a renter in North Dakota.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General – File a Consumer Complaint: Submit the official Consumer Complaint Form if you encounter a scam.
• North Dakota District Courts: For formal disputes or legal help with tenancy issues.
• North Dakota Department of Human Services – Housing Assistance: Find legitimate affordable housing programs.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – North Dakota Tenant Rights: Federal support and local referral resources.

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1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 – Landlords and Tenants
2. North Dakota Attorney General: File a Consumer Complaint

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