North Dakota Move-In Damage Documentation Guide

Starting a new rental in North Dakota is exciting, but taking time to document the property's condition at move-in is crucial. Proper documentation protects you if issues arise about damage or your security deposit when you move out. Here's what North Dakota renters should know to keep their rights protected.

Why Document Existing Damage at Move-In?

Careful documentation helps ensure you aren’t held responsible for pre-existing damage. Legally, this can prevent conflicts over deductions from your security deposit after moving out. North Dakota law requires landlords to be transparent about property condition and sets guidelines for move-in and move-out inspections.

Move-In Inspections: What Does North Dakota Law Say?

Under the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 on landlord and tenant rights, landlords are required to provide a written statement describing the condition of the property at the time of move-in if a security deposit is collected. Renters can inspect the unit and note any existing damage.^[1]

• Move-In Condition Statement: You are legally entitled to receive and complete a move-in condition statement.
• Request this form from your landlord if it is not provided.
• Use it to record all visible damage, wear, or cleanliness issues.

How to Document Existing Damage

Follow these practical steps to ensure everything is recorded:

• Request the Official Move-In Inspection form from your landlord. If they do not have one, you may create your own, referencing the requirements in North Dakota Century Code § 47-16-07.2.
• Walk through every room and note damage, stains, chips, broken fixtures, or appliances not working.
• Take clear, date-stamped photos or video of every item and area you mention, saving digital copies for your records.
• Make sure both you and the landlord sign and date the move-in statement.
• Keep a personal copy of this completed document.

If your landlord requires a specific move-in inspection form, ask for North Dakota's official rental inspection resources or sample forms from their website or the local housing authority.

What Forms Are Used in North Dakota?

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist or Condition Statement (no state-issued form number):
  • When used: At move-in and move-out to record property condition. Completing this form is especially important when you pay a security deposit.
  • How to use: Review and fill out the checklist with your landlord. Note every damage, no matter how minor. Both parties should sign, date, and keep copies.
  • Download the North Dakota Sample Move-In Checklist (PDF - ND Department of Labor & Human Rights)

These documents are vital if disputes arise before the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or in small claims court.

What If You Find Damage After Moving In?

If you notice damage missed initially, notify your landlord in writing immediately. Include photos, a detailed description, and the date discovered. Timely notices help ensure you are not found responsible.

What Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

In North Dakota, the North Dakota Court System handles residential tenancy disputes—including those over deposits or move-in condition. For information, visit the Landlord and Tenant section on their official website.

FAQ: North Dakota Move-In Damage Documentation

1. Do I have to use the landlord’s move-in checklist in North Dakota? Yes, if your landlord supplies a move-in condition form or checklist, complete it together to ensure you both agree on the property’s condition at move-in.
2. What should I do if the landlord refuses to give me a checklist? Document the condition yourself (take photos, make notes), then email or send a copy to your landlord as proof for your records.
3. Can the landlord deduct for damage not listed at move-in? Typically, deductions are allowed only for damage beyond normal wear and tear and not noted at the start—your documentation helps avoid unfair claims.
4. Where can I get an official move-in inspection form? Download the ND Department of Labor’s Sample Move-In Checklist for free, or request one from your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Department of Labor & Human Rights — housing complaint resources and forms
• North Dakota Courts — Landlord & Tenant Resources
• Legal Services of North Dakota — free or low-cost legal help for renters

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1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant
2. ND Dept. of Labor Sample Move-In Checklist (PDF)

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