Does North Dakota have rent control or stabilization?

No, North Dakota does not have rent control or stabilization laws for most private residential rentals.

How much notice must a landlord give for rent increases?

A landlord must provide at least 30 days' written notice for rent increases on month-to-month leases.

What should I do if my landlord raises rent without proper notice?

Contact the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for help, and keep written records of communications.

Can rent be increased during a fixed-term lease?

Rent generally cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless both the landlord and tenant agree in writing.

Are there special rules for subsidized housing?

Yes, rent increases in federally subsidized housing often have different rules and may require approval from a housing authority.

Understanding Rent Stabilization Rules in North Dakota

Rent Control & Rent Stabilization North Dakota published June 21, 2025

If you rent a home or apartment in North Dakota, you might wonder if there are any protections or limits on how much your landlord can increase your rent. While some states have rent stabilization or rent control laws, North Dakota has its own approach. This article explains how rent rules work in North Dakota, including what renters can expect, what resources are available, and where to go if you have concerns about rent increases or lease changes.

Is Rent Stabilization Used in North Dakota?

Unlike states with rent control or rent stabilization programs, North Dakota does not have laws that limit how much landlords can raise the rent in private residential leases. In most cases:

Landlords can set rents at market rates and raise them without a specific cap for most residential properties.
Rent increases are only limited by the terms of your lease and notice requirements under state law.
There are no statewide or local rent stabilization or rent control boards in North Dakota.

However, federal programs or subsidies (such as Section 8 housing) may have separate rent rules for qualifying properties.

Legal Requirements for Rent Increases in North Dakota

Even though North Dakota does not have rent stabilization, the law requires landlords to provide proper notice before increasing the rent.

How Much Notice Must Be Given?

For month-to-month tenancies: Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before raising the rent.
For fixed-term leases: Rent can only be increased at the end of the lease unless both parties agree to change the terms sooner.

These notice requirements are explained in the North Dakota Century Code, Title 47, Chapter 16.^[1]

Required Rental Forms and Notices

North Dakota does not have a specific form number for rent increase notices. Landlords typically must provide a written letter or notice including:

The date of the notice
The current rent and the new amount
When the increase will take effect (at least 30 days from notice for month-to-month tenants)

Example: If your landlord wants to raise your rent on a month-to-month lease starting August 1, they must provide written notice by July 1.

There is no official North Dakota government form for reporting improper rent increases or for filing rent-related complaints. If you are part of a federal program (like Section 8), check with the North Dakota HUD office.

Your Rights and Recourse as a Renter

If you believe your landlord has improperly raised your rent—such as giving less than 30 days’ notice—you can:

Refer to your written lease agreement for any specific rules.
Communicate concerns to your landlord in writing and keep copies.
Contact the North Dakota Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division for guidance or help with complaints.

Tip: Always have rent increases and other rental changes documented in writing. This can help protect your rights and avoid confusion.

Which Government Body Handles Rental Disputes?

North Dakota does not have a separate residential tenancy tribunal or housing board. Instead, disputes over rent increases, evictions, or leases are generally handled through:

The local District Court system for formal legal action.
The Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division offers information and may help mediate non-court disputes.

If your situation involves housing assistance or discrimination, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development accepts complaints.

Understanding Federal and Subsidized Housing Rent Rules

Some renters in North Dakota live in housing that is part of a federal subsidy program, like Section 8 or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit properties. In these cases:

Rent increases may be restricted or require approval from a public housing authority.
Always check with your property manager or local housing authority for specific rules and how to challenge rent changes.

Summary of Key North Dakota Rent Increase Rules

No statewide rent stabilization or rent control for private tenancies.
Landlords can raise rent with at least 30 days’ written notice for month-to-month tenants.
No official rent increase forms—written notice must state the effective date and new amount.
Disputes are generally settled through the court system or with help from the state's Consumer Protection Division.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does North Dakota have rent control or stabilization laws?
No, North Dakota does not have a rent control or stabilization program. Landlords can set and raise rents as permitted by lease terms and notice requirements.
How much notice must a landlord give before increasing rent?
At least 30 days’ written notice is required for rent increases on month-to-month leases.
Can a landlord raise rent during a fixed-term lease?
Landlords generally cannot raise rent during the term of a fixed-lease unless both parties agree to new terms in writing.
Where can I file a complaint if I think my rent was increased unfairly?
You can contact the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or seek resolution through your local District Court.
Are there any exceptions for subsidized or federal housing?
Yes. Rent rules for subsidized housing may be different and are often managed by a local housing authority or the federal government. Check with your property manager for details.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

North Dakota does not use rent control or stabilization for most private rentals.
Landlords must give proper written notice—usually 30 days—before raising rent on month-to-month leases.
Know your lease terms, document any communications, and seek help from official state or federal resources if needed.

Understanding your rights and the absence of rent stabilization in North Dakota can help you plan ahead and respond calmly to changes in your rental agreement.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

North Dakota Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Resources – Information and guidance for rental disputes.
North Dakota District Courts – Where to file legal actions relating to tenancy and leases.
North Dakota HUD Office – Assistance and guidance for federally subsidized renters.