North Dakota Renter Rights: Fire Sprinkler Inspections & Safety

Fire safety is a critical concern for renters in North Dakota. If you live in an apartment or rental housing, understanding how fire sprinkler inspections work—and what your rights are—can help protect your safety and your belongings. This article explains landlord and tenant responsibilities, relevant North Dakota laws, and what you can do if you have fire protection concerns.

Fire Sprinkler Requirements for Rental Properties

In North Dakota, many apartment buildings and other multi-unit residences are required to have working fire sprinkler systems. These requirements depend on when the building was constructed and its size. Local fire codes, along with state law, establish these protections to help ensure tenant safety.

• Fire sprinklers are typically required in new multi-family buildings and some older, larger complexes.
• One- or two-family rental homes generally are not required by state law to have sprinklers, but must comply with local fire codes.
• Landlords are responsible for keeping fire protection systems—including sprinklers—properly maintained and inspected as needed.

Who is Responsible for Fire Sprinkler Inspections?

Under North Dakota law, landlords must provide a residence that is safe and fit to live in. This includes ensuring that all safety systems like fire sprinklers, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers are working and regularly inspected.^[1]

• Inspections and testing of fire sprinkler systems are typically required annually by local fire departments or certified inspectors.
• Tenants should be notified in advance when inspections are scheduled, as inspectors may need access to apartment units.
• If a tenant notices leaks, disabled sprinklers, or problems after an inspection, report it promptly in writing to the landlord or property manager.

What Should Renters Do If Sprinklers Are Not Being Inspected?

If you believe fire sprinklers in your building have not been inspected, are broken, or are turned off, your landlord has a legal obligation to address these issues promptly. North Dakota’s primary residential landlord-tenant law is the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 - Landlords and Tenants.^[1] Local city or county fire departments may also enforce compliance under their fire inspection programs.

Important Official Forms for Renters

• ND Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form — This form is used when renters have reported a fire safety concern to their landlord and it remains unresolved. Official form: Consumer Complaint Form (PDF). Complete and submit this form to the North Dakota Attorney General's Office with details of your situation.
• Local Fire Department Request for Inspection Form — Some cities, including Fargo and Bismarck, have online or physical forms you can use to request a fire safety inspection. For example, Bismarck’s is found here: Bismarck Fire Safety Complaint Form. Use this if you suspect violations or want to request a fire safety check.

When using any of these forms, be clear about the location, the problem, and when it was reported to your landlord.

What Is the Tribunal for Tenancy Issues in North Dakota?

North Dakota does not have a residential tenancy tribunal. Instead, housing disputes, including health and safety issues, are handled through the local District Court system. For more information or assistance, you can contact the North Dakota State Court - Landlord & Tenant Legal Self Help Center.

How to Report a Fire Protection Concern as a Renter

If your landlord fails to inspect or maintain fire sprinklers, you have a right to take steps for your safety.

• Report the problem in writing to your landlord as soon as you notice the issue.
• If there’s no response, complete a Consumer Complaint Form for the Attorney General’s Office or submit a fire safety complaint to your local fire department.
• If your problem remains unresolved and safety is at risk, you may file a claim in District Court for enforcement or damages.

Keep all documents and correspondence as evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter my apartment to inspect the fire sprinklers?
   Yes. Landlords must give reasonable notice—usually 24 hours—before entering your apartment for fire sprinkler inspections, except in emergencies.^[1]
2. How often do fire sprinklers need to be inspected in my building?
   Most sprinkler systems in multi-family rentals are inspected at least once per year, as required by local fire codes and insurance standards.^[2]
3. What should I do if my fire sprinkler is leaking or visibly damaged?
   Immediately notify your landlord in writing. If no action is taken, report it to your local fire department and consider submitting a Consumer Complaint Form to the ND Attorney General.
4. Are all rental properties in North Dakota required to have fire sprinklers?
   No. Smaller and older single-family rentals usually are not required by state law to have fire sprinklers. Check with your city’s fire code office to confirm requirements for your building.^[2]
5. Who do I contact if my landlord ignores fire safety issues?
   You can reach out to your local fire department, the ND Attorney General’s Office, or consult the ND State Court landlord-tenant legal resources for further assistance.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Landlords are responsible for inspecting and maintaining fire sprinklers where required.
• As a renter, you should promptly report any fire sprinkler issues in writing and follow up if needed.
• Official complaint forms and support are available through state and local government agencies.

Understanding your fire protection rights under North Dakota law will help you stay safe and advocate for necessary repairs or inspections.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ND State Courts - Landlord and Tenant Legal Self Help Center
• ND Attorney General - Consumer Complaint Process
• Bismarck Fire Department | Fargo Fire Department — for local fire safety complaints
• Fire Inspection Program Information

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1. ND Century Code Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Fire Inspection Program, State of North Dakota

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