Landlord Rights to Show Apartments in North Dakota

Moving out of a rental can be stressful enough without surprises or confusion about your landlord’s rights during the notice period. In North Dakota, knowing when and how a landlord can show your apartment while you are still living there—and possibly packing—can help prevent misunderstandings and keep your final month stress-free.

When Can a Landlord Show the Apartment in North Dakota?

Under North Dakota law, landlords typically have the right to show a rental unit to prospective tenants or buyers at the end of a lease. However, this right is balanced with the renter’s right to privacy and reasonable quiet enjoyment of their home.^[1]

• Proper Notice: Your landlord must give you “advance notice” before entering your rental unit, except in emergencies.
• Reasonable Times: Showings must occur at reasonable times—usually during normal daytime hours—unless you agree otherwise.
• Packing or Moving: You still have full tenancy rights while packing or preparing to move. The landlord must respect your time, possessions, and space during this period.

Required Advance Notice

North Dakota law requires landlords to provide "reasonable notice" before entering for non-emergency reasons, such as showing the apartment. While the law does not specify a set number of hours, 24 hours is commonly considered reasonable.^[2]

Your Options if You Want to Limit Showings

If showings would interfere with your packing, work schedule, or personal needs, you can communicate preferences to your landlord. Consider the following practical steps:

• Request that showings be clustered into specific days or times
• Ask for written notice of each showing appointment
• Schedule showings when you can be present, if you feel more comfortable

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• North Dakota Civil Complaint Form (No. C-1): If your landlord enters without notice or violates your rights, you can use this form to start a complaint in small claims court.
  Example: If your landlord repeatedly enters your home to show it without proper notice while you're packing, you can file this form with your local court.
  Access the Civil Complaint Form (C-1) on the ND Courts website

Which Agency Oversees Landlord-Tenant Issues?

Residential tenancy issues in North Dakota are overseen by the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. This official agency provides guidance, complaint resources, and offers the North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act as your main legal reference.

What Does the Law Say?

The main legislation governing these situations is the North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (N.D.C.C. Chapter 47-16). For entry and showing the premises, focus on Section 47-16-07.3, which covers landlord entry requirements.

FAQ: Common Questions About Showings While Moving Out

1. Does my landlord always need to give notice before entering for a showing?
   Yes, except in the case of an emergency. Advance notice is required by North Dakota law for any non-emergency entry, including showings.
2. How much notice should my landlord give?
   North Dakota law states the notice must be reasonable. While not defined, 24 hours is considered typical. Be sure to check your lease in case it specifies more details.
3. Can I refuse a showing if it doesn’t work with my schedule?
   You can discuss your availability and ask for alternative times, but you generally cannot block all showings without good reason. Your landlord and you are encouraged to work together on a practical schedule.
4. What should I do if my landlord enters without providing advance notice?
   Document each instance, communicate your concerns in writing, and if necessary, consider filing a complaint with the Attorney General’s office or in small claims court.
5. What if I am not comfortable with strangers entering while I’m packing or not home?
   You can request to be present at all showings or ask the landlord to be present. Make your preferences known in writing for clarity.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General – Landlord & Tenant Rights
• North Dakota Courts – Small Claims Information & Forms
• North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• North Dakota Legal Services or a local tenant advocacy group for additional support

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• ^[1] North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, N.D.C.C. Chapter 47-16
• ^[2] Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities Guide

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