Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am over 55?

No, landlords cannot refuse to rent to you based on age unless the property is designated for seniors as allowed by law.

What if I need modifications in my apartment because of a disability?

You may request reasonable accommodations in writing, and your landlord must consider them under state and federal law.

How do I report housing discrimination in North Dakota?

Fill out the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (SFN 14200) and submit it to the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.

Are seniors given extra eviction protections?

Seniors have the same basic rights as other tenants unless living in subsidized housing, which may offer additional safeguards.

Do rent increases work differently in senior apartments?

Generally, rent increases follow the same rules, unless the senior housing is federally subsidized and has additional limits.

Senior Housing Rights for Renters in North Dakota

Special Housing Types & Situations North Dakota published June 21, 2025

If you’re a senior renter in North Dakota, it’s important to know your specific rights and protections. State and federal laws offer special rules that can help protect you from discrimination, unfair eviction, or unsafe living conditions. Understanding these protections ensures you can stay safe and secure in your home as you age.

Senior Housing Protections in North Dakota: What You Need to Know

North Dakota offers housing protections to renters who are seniors (typically 55 or older). These rules aim to ensure fair treatment and to prevent age-based discrimination in both standard and specific "senior housing" complexes.

Senior Housing Defined

In North Dakota, "senior housing" often refers to rental communities designed for residents aged 55 and older. These homes can include independent apartments, assisted-living communities, or federally subsidized housing for seniors. Some of these communities set their own age minimums and eligibility rules, but they must comply with both state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Key Legal Protections for Senior Renters

Anti-Discrimination Laws: Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the North Dakota Human Rights Act, it is illegal for a landlord to discriminate based on age, disability, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or familial status. Senior communities can limit residency to seniors but can’t discriminate on other protected grounds.
Disability Accommodations: Landlords must make reasonable accommodations for seniors with disabilities. This may include permitting assistive animals, ramps, or grab bars, often at the tenant’s request and sometimes at the tenant’s expense.
Eviction Protections: Seniors have the same basic eviction protections as all tenants under the North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. All evictions must follow official notice and court processes.

Reporting Discrimination or Unsafe Conditions

If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly because of your age or disability, you can:

File a complaint with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights
Request a review by a federal agency such as HUD

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (SFN 14200)
- When to Use: If you suspect discrimination (due to age, disability, race, or other protected status) when applying for or living in senior housing.
- How to Use: Fill out details about the discrimination, including names, dates, and supporting facts. Submit the form to the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.
- Download the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (SFN 14200)
Request for Reasonable Accommodation
- When to Use: If you need your landlord to make changes (like installing ramps or grab bars) because of a disability.
- How to Use: Put your request in writing with details and relevant medical needs. No special form required, but clear written requests are essential. See more on the HUD Reasonable Accommodations Guidance.

How North Dakota Resolves Rental Disputes

Rental disputes, including those involving senior housing, are typically handled by the courts in North Dakota, specifically at the county district court level. There is no separate tenancy tribunal. The North Dakota Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is the primary legislation governing rental rights, including for special housing situations.

Official Tribunal/Board: District Court of North Dakota (North Dakota Courts)
Relevant Legislation: North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16.1 (Residential Landlord and Tenant Act)

Tip: Always keep copies of all correspondence and records related to your rental, especially when submitting accommodation requests or discrimination complaints.

Action Steps for Senior Renters Facing Problems

Document the issue (take notes, save correspondence).
Raise problems in writing with your landlord or property manager first.
If issues aren’t resolved, consider filing a complaint or seeking help from a government agency.
Evictions must follow formal legal procedures — never move out based on verbal threats.

Frequently Asked Questions about Senior Housing in North Dakota

Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am over 55?
No, landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of your age unless the property is designated as senior housing for those 55+. Discrimination based strictly on age outside of these communities is not allowed under state and federal law.
What if I need modifications in my apartment because of a disability?
You can submit a written request for reasonable accommodations. Your landlord cannot deny fair accommodations without legal grounds, and more information is available from the HUD guidance on this right.
How do I report housing discrimination in North Dakota?
Complete the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (SFN 14200) and submit it to the Department of Labor and Human Rights. You can also call 701-328-2660 for assistance.
Are seniors given extra eviction protections?
North Dakota law gives the same eviction process rights to all tenants, but seniors in government-subsidized housing may have additional notice protections. Always check your lease and official notices carefully.
Do rent increases work differently in senior apartments?
Rent increases in senior housing generally follow the same rules as standard rental units but might be subject to additional federal regulations if the community receives subsidies. Always ask for written notice and check any lease provisions or subsidy rules that apply.

Key Takeaways for Senior Renters

Senior renters in North Dakota are protected from discrimination and have the right to request disability accommodations.
Rental disputes, including evictions, are handled through North Dakota District Courts.
Know your rights and always use official forms and channels when reporting problems.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights – File discrimination complaints, learn about fair housing laws, or call 701-328-2660 for assistance.
North Dakota Courts – Information about eviction actions and court processes for tenant-landlord issues.
ND Department of Human Services – Aging Services – Senior support, advocacy, and referral programs.
HUD North Dakota Tenant Rights – Federal fair housing and senior housing information.