North Dakota Rent Control Laws: 2025 Guide for Renters

For renters in North Dakota, concerns about rising rent and housing costs are common. With housing policies changing in states nationwide, many wonder whether North Dakota now has rent control or rent stabilization laws in place. This updated 2025 guide outlines what you need to know about rent regulation, legal protections, and where to get official help as a tenant in North Dakota.

Is There Rent Control or Rent Stabilization in North Dakota?

North Dakota currently does not have any state or municipal rent control or rent stabilization laws as of 2025. Landlords may generally set and increase rents without specific legal limits.

This means you could experience rent increases at the end of your lease term, as long as the landlord follows notice requirements set by state law. Local cities and counties in North Dakota also do not have authority to pass their own rent control ordinances.

What Are the Rules for Rent Increases in North Dakota?

While there is no rent control, state law still outlines how and when your landlord can raise the rent. The key points include:

• For month-to-month tenancies: Landlords must give at least 30 days' written notice before increasing the rent.
• For fixed-term leases: Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless your agreement allows it.
• Any changes, including rent increases, must be delivered in writing.

Notice of Rent Increase Form and Use

While there is no state-issued, standardized “Notice of Rent Increase” form in North Dakota, your landlord's written notice should state:

• The current rent amount
• The new rent amount
• The date when the new rent will take effect

If you receive such a notice and have questions, it's important to keep the written document for your records. You do not need to sign a new lease unless your landlord is starting a new fixed-term agreement.

Your Rights as a Renter: Protections and Resources

Even with no rent control, North Dakota law offers tenants important legal protections. Landlords must:

• Honor written lease agreements and state-required notice periods
• Deliver habitable housing and make necessary repairs
• Abide by legal processes for eviction and security deposits

The main legislation covering rental housing in North Dakota is the North Dakota Century Code, Title 47 – Landlord and Tenant Law.^[1]

How Evictions and Disputes Are Handled

If you have a dispute about rent, repairs, eviction, or other rental issues, these are typically handled in North Dakota district courts. There is no separate state landlord-tenant board.

• Eviction actions (known as "unlawful detainer" cases) are filed in the local District Court. Find your district court using the North Dakota Courts directory.
• Both landlords and tenants may present their case before a judge. Forms and procedures are governed by the state court system.

Official Tenant/Landlord Forms in North Dakota

• Summons and Complaint for Eviction – Used by landlords to start the eviction process. Access template forms and instructions at the North Dakota Court System Landlord/Tenant Self Help page.
• Answer Form (Eviction) – Used by tenants to respond to an eviction complaint. Obtain the Answer Eviction Form and guidance from the official court website.

Example: If you receive an eviction summons, you can use the Answer Form to tell the court your side—including if you believe a rent increase was improper or received without proper notice.

FAQ: North Dakota Rent Control & Rent Increases

1. Does North Dakota have any rent control laws in 2025?
   No, there are no state or city rent control or rent stabilization laws in North Dakota.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   If you rent month-to-month, you must receive at least 30 days' written notice before any rent increase.
3. Where can I get official court forms for rental disputes?
   Forms and instructions are available on the North Dakota Courts Landlord/Tenant Self Help page.
4. Can my landlord raise my rent during my lease?
   In most cases, the landlord cannot raise your rent during a fixed-term lease unless your lease allows for mid-term increases.
5. Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in North Dakota?
   Tenant-landlord disputes, including eviction proceedings, are handled by the North Dakota District Court in your county.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• No rent control or rent stabilization laws currently apply in North Dakota.
• Landlords must provide at least 30 days' notice for rent increases in month-to-month rentals.
• Tenant rights and landlord duties are defined in the North Dakota Century Code – Landlord and Tenant Law.
• Eviction and rental disputes go through the District Court system—not a separate tribunal.

Understanding your basic rights is the best protection against unfair practices. Keep records, ask questions, and know where to find official help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Court System – Landlord/Tenant Self Help: Official forms, legal information, and court procedures for tenants and landlords.
• Legal Services of North Dakota: Free civil legal aid for eligible renters facing eviction or housing problems.
• North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services – Housing: Rental assistance and housing support programs.
• North Dakota Century Code, Title 47: Full text of the state’s landlord-tenant laws.

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Title 47 – Landlord and Tenant Law
2. North Dakota Courts – Residential Tenancy Cases
3. North Dakota Court System Landlord/Tenant Self Help Resources

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