Rent Caps and Local Ordinances for North Dakota Renters

If you rent a home or apartment in North Dakota, it's important to know your rights concerning rent increases and local rent laws. Unlike some states, North Dakota takes a straightforward approach to rental laws, but City-level ordinances and general state legislation can impact your rent and tenancy security. Here's what you need to know about local rent caps, ordinances, and your protections as a North Dakota renter.

Are There Rent Caps or Rent Control in North Dakota?

There is no statewide rent control or rent cap in North Dakota. This means that, in most situations, landlords can increase rent by any amount once your lease term ends, so long as proper notice is provided. North Dakota law does not currently allow cities to establish their own rent control ordinances, and there are no major cities with local rent caps. All renters should be aware of these general rules.

How Much Notice Must a Landlord Give for Rent Increases?

Under the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant Act), landlords must provide advance written notice to tenants before any rent increase:

• Month-to-month tenancy: At least 30 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect.
• Fixed-term leases: Rent cannot be increased during the lease period unless the lease allows it. Increases apply only after renewal or with tenant agreement.

If you receive a notice of rent increase, check your lease and ensure the required notice has been given.

Local Ordinances & Special Municipal Rules

Currently, no city in North Dakota has adopted its own rent control or rent cap ordinance. The state's law on 'preemption' prevents local governments from creating stricter rent rules. Cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks follow the same statewide rules for rent increases and notices.

What About Rent-Related Protections?

While there are no city-specific rent caps, the following protections apply statewide:

• Notice Before Termination: Landlords must provide 30 days' written notice to end a month-to-month lease.
• Security Deposit Rules: Landlords can't charge more than one month's rent, with extra allowed for pets (Chapter 47-16-07.1).
• Retaliation Prohibited: Landlords can’t increase rent or evict you solely for reporting health/safety violations.

For all tenancies, protections like proper notice and anti-retaliation apply. For residents in subsidized or special housing, additional federal rules may exist.

Official Forms for Renters

• Notice to Terminate Lease (no form number)
  When used: If you wish to move out or end a month-to-month rental, you must give your landlord a written notice at least 30 days in advance. You may draft your own notice, as no state-issued form is required. See official guidelines at North Dakota Legal Self Help: Landlord & Tenant.
• Housing Discrimination Complaint (HUD Form 903)
  When used: If you suspect your landlord increased rent based on discrimination (e.g., race, disability), you can file this form online with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

If your landlord proposes a rent increase, keep the notice in writing and examine your lease for relevant clauses. If you feel your rights have been violated, you can contact the state’s landlord-tenant resource agencies for help.

The Tribunal That Handles Rental Disputes

Rental disputes in North Dakota are generally handled through the North Dakota District Court. There is no separate residential tenancy board or tribunal. Tenants and landlords can file small claims or general civil actions for deposit disputes, improper rent increases, or wrongful termination. Detailed procedures can be found on North Dakota Legal Self Help: Landlord-Tenant.

Relevant Legislation: Your Rights Under State Law

Your core rights regarding rental increases and tenancy protections are found in the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant Act). Read the full text for details about lease terms, required notices, and housing standards.

If you receive a rent increase notice you believe is retaliatory or discriminatory, document everything and contact a state agency or seek legal support before taking further steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are there any rent control laws in North Dakota cities?
   No, neither North Dakota nor its cities have rent control laws. All rent increases must follow state notice requirements.
2. How much notice do I get before my landlord can raise the rent?
   If you rent month-to-month, your landlord must provide at least 30 days written notice before a rent increase.
3. What should I do if my landlord raises rent without proper notice?
   Politely inform your landlord that state law requires 30 days written notice for rent increases. If issues persist, you can seek help through North Dakota District Court or state legal resources.
4. Can my landlord increase rent as retaliation for a complaint?
   No, retaliation—such as rent hikes for reporting code violations—is prohibited under North Dakota law.
5. Where do I take my case if I dispute a rent increase?
   Rental disputes may be addressed in North Dakota District Court. There is no separate tenancy tribunal in the state.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• There are no rent caps or rent control laws statewide or locally in North Dakota.
• Landlords must provide written notice—usually 30 days—before raising rent on periodic leases.
• Protection against retaliation and proper legal process applies to all renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Legal Self Help: Landlord-Tenant – Official guides, resources, and court info
• North Dakota Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Rights
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – File a Fair Housing Complaint
• North Dakota District Court – For disputes, evictions, and claims

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1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant Act
2. North Dakota Century Code 47-16-07.1: Security Deposits
3. North Dakota Legal Self Help: Landlord-Tenant
4. File a Fair Housing Complaint – HUD

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