North Dakota Landlord Entry Laws: Notice & Tenant Rights

Understanding when your landlord can enter your North Dakota rental property—and what notice is required—protects your privacy and helps avoid landlord-tenant disputes. North Dakota law sets clear rules about entry, notice requirements, and exceptions. This guide explains your rights, what to expect, and how to respond if your landlord enters without notice.

Landlord Entry Rules in North Dakota

North Dakota's landlord-tenant laws specify when and how a landlord can enter a tenant's rental unit. The most important legislation for renters is the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant^[1].

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental?

Landlords may lawfully enter your unit for reasons such as:

• To inspect the property
• To make necessary or agreed repairs or improvements
• To show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or contractors
• If you have abandoned the property
• In case of emergency

Notice Requirements for Entry

Under North Dakota law (Section 47-16-07.3), your landlord must give you at least 24 hours notice in writing before entering your unit, except in emergencies. The notice should state when they plan to enter and the reason for entry.

Notice may be delivered in person, posted on your door, mailed, or by other methods outlined in your lease agreement. Emergencies (such as fire, flooding, or urgent repairs) are an exception—no notice is required if immediate entry is necessary to protect people or property.

Can a Landlord Enter Without Notice?

Except for emergencies, landlords cannot enter your home without delivering proper advance notice. Entry without notice (outside of emergencies) may be a violation of your rights as a tenant.

Relevant Official Forms and Actions

While North Dakota does not provide a specific 'Notice to Enter' government form, landlords must ensure they give written notice as required by law. If you need to report an illegal entry or file a complaint, you may use the following steps:

• Written Complaint or Notice to Landlord: Write a letter detailing the dates and details of entry, and request future compliance. Keep a copy for your records.
• Filing a complaint: If the issue continues, reach out to the North Dakota Attorney General's Consumer Protection & Landlord/Tenant Unit. You may submit a Consumer Complaint Form. This form is used when you believe your landlord has violated state law or your lease rights.

To use the Consumer Complaint Form:

• Download the form (PDF)
• Fill in all sections, including details about the entry issue
• Attach supporting documents (lease, notices, written correspondence)
• Mail or deliver the form to the Attorney General's office (address on the form)

Who Enforces Rental Housing Law in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, there is no dedicated housing tribunal like in some other states. Instead, rental disputes and complaints are generally handled through:

• North Dakota Attorney General – Landlord and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
• Local small claims or district court for formal legal action

Under the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16, tenants have privacy rights, and landlords must respect notice procedures.

Steps to Take If Your Landlord Enters Without Notice

• Document each entry, including dates and details
• Write to your landlord, citing the notice requirement under state law
• If the problem continues, file a Consumer Complaint Form with the Attorney General
• If unresolved, consider seeking mediation or legal advice for next steps

Standing up for your privacy rights is protected by North Dakota law. Always keep written records.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter for maintenance without notice in North Dakota?
   Generally, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering for maintenance, unless it's an emergency.
2. What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?
   Document each incident, remind your landlord of the law in writing, and file a complaint with the North Dakota Attorney General if necessary.
3. Are there exceptions to the 24-hour notice rule in North Dakota?
   Yes, emergencies—such as water leaks or fires—allow landlords to enter immediately with no notice required.
4. Where can I file a complaint about illegal entry?
   Complaints can be reported to the North Dakota Attorney General's office using their Consumer Complaint Form.
5. Does my landlord need to give notice if I have abandoned the unit?
   No, if the property is legally considered abandoned, notice is generally not required, but proof of abandonment is needed.

Summary of Key Takeaways

• Your landlord must give at least 24 hours written notice before entering—unless it's an emergency
• Illegal entry can be reported to the North Dakota Attorney General
• Document all communications and entries for your protection

Following these rules helps protect your privacy and sets clear boundaries in the landlord-tenant relationship.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Rights
• Consumer Complaint Form (PDF) – For reporting violations
• Legal Services of North Dakota – Free legal assistance for eligible renters
• Local District or Small Claims Courts – For legal action in unresolved disputes

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1. [1] North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant
2. North Dakota Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form
3. North Dakota Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Rights

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