North Dakota Landlord Repair & Maintenance Responsibilities

Knowing your rights around maintenance and repairs can make your rental experience in North Dakota safer and more comfortable. State law spells out what landlords must do to keep properties in good condition, and what steps renters can take if things aren’t fixed. This guide covers landlord repair responsibilities in North Dakota, points to official resources, and provides actionable advice on getting repairs handled promptly and legally.

Landlords’ Legal Duty: Habitability and Repairs

North Dakota landlords are required by law to keep rental properties safe, sanitary, and in good repair. The core obligations include:

• Ensuring heat, water, plumbing, and electrical systems are working properly
• Repairing structural elements like walls, floors, and roofs
• Addressing mold, pests, or hazardous conditions promptly
• Complying with all local housing and building codes

These standards are established by the North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹ A rental property that lacks these basics may be considered "uninhabitable," which can affect your rights and obligations as a renter.

What the Law Says: Required Repairs

Under North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16, landlords must:

• Make all repairs needed to put and keep the property in a fit and habitable condition
• Keep common areas clean and safe
• Maintain pest control and proper weatherproofing

If something essential breaks (like heating in winter), your landlord should respond quickly after being notified. Renters are typically responsible only for repairs due to their own deliberate or negligent actions.

Your Rights: Requesting Repairs

If you need a repair, let your landlord know in writing (email, letter, or text). Be specific about what’s wrong, when the issue started, and request prompt action. Keeping a copy of your message is important in case issues later arise.

If your landlord fails to fix a serious problem in a reasonable time, you may have options under the law, such as withholding rent or making repairs and deducting the cost. However, it’s vital to follow the specific steps outlined in state law to protect your rights.

Official Form: Notice to Landlord for Repairs

• Form Name: "Notice of Required Repairs" (no official state form number in North Dakota)
• When to Use: Use this written notice to inform your landlord of needed repairs and start the process.
• How to Use: Describe the repair needed, provide your address and date, and keep a copy. If possible, send it by certified mail or email for proof. Template letters are available from the North Dakota Office of Attorney General.

Example: If your heat stops working in winter and the landlord is slow to respond, you should issue a written "Notice of Required Repairs" to begin the formal process.

If Repairs Aren’t Made: Next Steps

If your landlord does not act in a reasonable timeframe after being notified, you may have options such as:

• Contacting your local building or health department for an inspection
• Filing a written complaint with the appropriate agency (see resources below)
• Seeking mediation with your landlord
• Withholding rent or arranging repairs yourself—with proper notice and receipts—if permitted by law

The process is set out in detail in the North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

Who Handles Rental Disputes in North Dakota?

Residential tenancy disputes in North Dakota—including repair and habitability concerns—are handled through the District Courts of North Dakota.² There is no separate rental tribunal; complaints must usually be filed as legal actions in these courts.

FAQs: North Dakota Renters’ Rights and Repairs

1. What repairs is my landlord required to make? Landlords must repair heating, plumbing, electrical, structural, and other issues making a property unfit or unsafe. Basic habitability is required by state law.
2. How do I notify my landlord about a repair? Send a written notice (email, letter, or text) describing what needs repair. Keep a copy for your records.
3. Can I withhold rent until repairs are made? Possibly, but you must follow legal steps. Document your requests and consult with a legal expert or court before withholding rent.
4. Who do I contact if my landlord ignores repairs? Contact your local building or health department for an inspection, or consider filing a legal complaint in District Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for ND Renters

• North Dakota law requires landlords to keep rental properties safe and in good repair.
• Always give written notice for repairs and keep a record.
• If serious issues aren’t fixed promptly, escalate through official channels or the courts.

Staying informed and organized helps renters resolve issues efficiently and protect their rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ND Attorney General – Tenant Rights: Comprehensive info and downloadable sample forms
• North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full Statute
• ND District Courts: Locate your local court for disputes
• Legal Services of North Dakota: Free or low-cost legal assistance
• For local code enforcement or health complaints, contact your city or county government offices

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1. North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – NDCC 47-16-01 et seq.
2. District Courts of North Dakota

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