North Dakota Renters: Who Pays for Internet Service?

If you’re renting an apartment in North Dakota and wondering who should pay for or provide internet service, you’re not alone. The topic of internet service responsibilities can affect your monthly budget and your ability to stay connected. Understanding North Dakota’s laws and lease agreements can help you resolve disputes and plan your housing expenses.

Your Rights: Who Is Responsible for Internet in North Dakota Apartments?

There is no state law in North Dakota that requires landlords to provide internet service to rental units. In most cases, internet service is considered an optional utility, not an essential one like heat, water, or electricity. Whether you or your landlord pays for internet depends primarily on:

• The terms written in your lease agreement
• What was advertised or promised before you moved in

If your lease says that internet is included in your rent, the landlord must provide it. If the lease is silent on internet service, renters are generally expected to set up and pay for their own accounts with a provider like Midco, BEK, or Nodak Telephone Company.

Internet as an Amenity vs. Essential Utility

Unlike heat or running water, internet access is not classified by North Dakota law as an essential service. Landlords must ensure the apartment meets the basic habitability standards required by the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant Law)¹, which concerns vital utilities and safe living conditions. However, this does not include internet service unless your lease specifies otherwise.

Lease Agreements: Double-Check Before You Sign

Your lease is your main source of rights regarding utilities. North Dakota law allows landlords and tenants to agree on who provides and pays for services, including internet¹. Check these details in your lease:

• Does it say “internet included” or “tenant responsible for internet”?
• Are there any addendums or written promises about WiFi?
• If yes, are there details on speed, reliability, or provider?

If There’s a Problem: Steps Renters Can Take

If your landlord agreed to provide internet but does not, or if you’re being charged for a service you don’t receive, you have options:

• Document the issue (emails, texts, photos, ads).
• Communicate in writing—ask your landlord to resolve it.
• If unresolved, you may file a complaint or seek mediation through the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division ².

For severe cases (such as being locked out or losing essential utilities), you can take further steps under North Dakota law, but these do not typically apply to internet service. For basic disputes, communication and documentation are usually most effective.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Tenant Complaint Form (Standard):
  Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (ND Attorney General)
  Use this if your landlord fails to deliver something promised in the lease—such as included internet. You’ll fill in your information, describe the issue, and attach evidence. Mail or email to the address listed on the form for review by the Consumer Protection Division.

Where to Turn if You Need Help

While there is no specialized tribunal for residential tenancies in North Dakota, the Attorney General’s Office – Landlord and Tenant Rights provides official guidance, complaint forms, and mediation. The main rental legislation governing these issues is North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 ¹.

FAQ: Internet Service Responsibilities in North Dakota Rentals

1. Is my landlord required to provide internet in my North Dakota apartment?
   No, unless your lease specifically states that internet is included. It is not considered an “essential service” under North Dakota law.
2. Can my landlord restrict which internet provider I use?
   Sometimes. If your building already has bulk internet service, you may be limited to that provider, but you can ask about other options. Check your lease or ask the landlord for clarification.
3. What if my lease says “internet included” but I have no connection?
   Document the issue and remind your landlord in writing. If unresolved, use the Attorney General’s complaint form or mediation services.
4. Can I deduct internet costs from my rent if my landlord doesn’t provide it?
   Not without a written agreement or legal advice. Unauthorized deductions may result in late fees or eviction. Always resolve disputes in writing first.
5. Where can I find official tenant laws for North Dakota?
   You can review the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16, which covers residential leases and tenant rights.

Summary: What North Dakota Renters Should Know

• Internet service is usually the renter’s responsibility unless promised in the lease.
• Always read or request lease details about utilities before signing.
• If a landlord fails to provide agreed internet, document your case and contact the Attorney General’s office.

Knowing your responsibilities can help prevent misunderstandings and protect your rights as a North Dakota renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Rights – Guidance and complaint forms
• Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
• North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant Law)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – North Dakota Rental Information

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant Law)
2. North Dakota Attorney General's Landlord and Tenant Rights

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