Upload your North Dakota lease and get an instant risk report. Our engine checks every clause against North Dakota landlord-tenant law — hidden fees, illegal clauses, and missing protections flagged in seconds.
North Dakota has a moderate set of state-specific lease rules, so LeaseGuard prioritizes the clauses most likely to affect everyday renters there. On this page, that means paying close attention to 1 month max deposit and required condition report, plus the fee and notice language that often creates disputes before move-in.
North Dakota renters do not just need a generic lease summary. The review is tuned to the clauses that most often create disputes in North Dakota, using 15 rules tied to that jurisdiction.
North Dakota deposit terms
North Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. LeaseGuard checks whether the lease wording matches that cap, timeline, or disclosure standard.
North Dakota entry and notice rules
North Dakota requires reasonable notice before entry. We flag clauses that shorten notice windows or give the landlord broader access than renters usually expect.
North Dakota late-fee language
North Dakota does not cap late fees by statute. The report looks for stacked penalties, vague fee triggers, and clause wording that can snowball after one missed payment.
North Dakota Tenant Protection Highlights
Security Deposit
North Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month's rent.
Entry Notice
North Dakota requires reasonable notice before entry.
Late Fees
North Dakota does not cap late fees by statute.
Common North Dakota lease clauses to review
These are the lease areas that usually deserve the closest read in North Dakota, especially when a landlord uses a broad form lease drafted for multiple markets.
1 month max deposit clauses that should match current North Dakota landlord-tenant rules.
Required condition report language that landlords often summarize incorrectly or leave out of the lease packet.
North Dakota requires reasonable notice before entry. LeaseGuard highlights entry wording that is broader than the notice tenants usually receive in North Dakota.
North Dakota does not cap late fees by statute. We also look for daily penalties, multipliers, rent acceleration, and other fee structures that compound quickly.
What stands out in North Dakota renter protections
Rules that usually drive negotiation
1 month max deposit. Required condition report. These are often the clauses renters can raise before signing because they directly affect cost, access, or the landlord's obligations after move out.
Where boilerplate can drift offside
Landlords often reuse one lease packet across multiple states. In North Dakota, that creates the most friction when deposit, notice, or late-fee wording ignores the local rule set or skips a state-specific disclosure entirely.
North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law: What Your Lease Should Comply With
LeaseGuard checks every North Dakota lease against 19 compliance rules tied to North Dakota statutes and case law. Below is a topic-by-topic summary of the rules used by the LeaseGuard analysis engine. This is educational information about North Dakota law, not legal advice.
Security Deposit Rules in North Dakota
5 compliance checks — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine. See the cross-state guide.
Security deposit exceeds statutory maximum
Critical
The stated security deposit of the stated deposit appears to exceed North Dakota's statutory limit. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, security deposits are generally limited to one month's rent or $1,500, whichever is greater. For monthly rent of the monthly rent, the maximum allowable deposit would be the monthly rent (or $1,500 if that is higher).
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to reduce the security deposit to comply with North Dakota law. If the landlord insists on a higher amount, consider consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing.
This lease appears to describe the security deposit as "nonrefundable." Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, security deposits must be refundable except for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or other legitimate deductions. A nonrefundable deposit may not comply with North Dakota law.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove the nonrefundable language and confirm in writing that the deposit will be returned in accordance with North Dakota law. If the landlord refuses, consider consulting an attorney.
The lease does not appear to specify when the security deposit will be returned after you move out. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1 generally requires landlords to return the deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) within 30 days of the tenant vacating the unit. You may want to confirm this timeline is understood by both parties.
What renters can do
Consider asking the landlord to add language confirming the 30-day return timeline required by North Dakota law. Having this in writing may help avoid disputes at move-out.
Security deposit deduction for normal wear and tear
Critical
The lease appears to claim the landlord may withhold part or all of the security deposit for normal wear and tear. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, a landlord may only deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs to restore the unit to its condition at move-in. Deducting for normal wear and tear is generally prohibited.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to revise this clause to clarify that deductions will only be made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, consistent with North Dakota law. Consider documenting the condition of the unit at move-in with dated photos to help resolve any disputes at move-out.
Combined pet deposit and security deposit may exceed statutory cap
High
The combined security deposit (the stated deposit) and pet deposit (the value in your lease) appears to exceed one month's rent (the monthly rent). Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, the total of all deposits that function as security is generally limited to one month's rent (or $1,500, whichever is greater). A separate pet deposit may be treated as part of the security deposit for the purpose of this cap.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord whether the combined total of all deposits complies with the North Dakota security deposit limit. If it appears to exceed the cap, consider negotiating a reduction or asking the landlord to restructure the pet arrangement (for example, as a monthly pet rent instead of a deposit).
9 compliance checks — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine. See the cross-state guide.
Security deposit exceeds statutory maximum
Critical
The stated security deposit of the stated deposit appears to exceed North Dakota's statutory limit. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, security deposits are generally limited to one month's rent or $1,500, whichever is greater. For monthly rent of the monthly rent, the maximum allowable deposit would be the monthly rent (or $1,500 if that is higher).
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to reduce the security deposit to comply with North Dakota law. If the landlord insists on a higher amount, consider consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing.
This lease appears to describe the security deposit as "nonrefundable." Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, security deposits must be refundable except for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or other legitimate deductions. A nonrefundable deposit may not comply with North Dakota law.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove the nonrefundable language and confirm in writing that the deposit will be returned in accordance with North Dakota law. If the landlord refuses, consider consulting an attorney.
The lease does not appear to specify when the security deposit will be returned after you move out. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1 generally requires landlords to return the deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) within 30 days of the tenant vacating the unit. You may want to confirm this timeline is understood by both parties.
What renters can do
Consider asking the landlord to add language confirming the 30-day return timeline required by North Dakota law. Having this in writing may help avoid disputes at move-out.
Security deposit deduction for normal wear and tear
Critical
The lease appears to claim the landlord may withhold part or all of the security deposit for normal wear and tear. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, a landlord may only deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs to restore the unit to its condition at move-in. Deducting for normal wear and tear is generally prohibited.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to revise this clause to clarify that deductions will only be made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, consistent with North Dakota law. Consider documenting the condition of the unit at move-in with dated photos to help resolve any disputes at move-out.
The late fee of the late fee appears to exceed 6% of the monthly rent (the monthly rent). While North Dakota statute does not set a specific cap on late fees, courts may evaluate whether fees are reasonable under general contract law. A late fee should generally represent a reasonable estimate of the landlord's actual costs from late payment rather than serving as a penalty.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord whether the late fee reflects actual costs incurred from late payment. If the fee seems disproportionate, consider negotiating it down or requesting documentation of the landlord's estimated costs.
The lease does not appear to specify a grace period before late fees take effect. While North Dakota law does not mandate a specific grace period, many leases include one (commonly 3 to 5 days). Without a stated grace period, a late fee could theoretically apply on the day after rent is due.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to include a grace period (for example, 3 to 5 days) before late fees apply. This is a common lease provision and may help protect you from fees caused by minor payment delays.
Combined pet deposit and security deposit may exceed statutory cap
High
The combined security deposit (the stated deposit) and pet deposit (the value in your lease) appears to exceed one month's rent (the monthly rent). Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, the total of all deposits that function as security is generally limited to one month's rent (or $1,500, whichever is greater). A separate pet deposit may be treated as part of the security deposit for the purpose of this cap.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord whether the combined total of all deposits complies with the North Dakota security deposit limit. If it appears to exceed the cap, consider negotiating a reduction or asking the landlord to restructure the pet arrangement (for example, as a monthly pet rent instead of a deposit).
The total of recurring monthly fees (not including base rent) appears to exceed 15% of your monthly rent (the monthly rent). While individual fees may each be lawful under North Dakota law, the cumulative effect can significantly increase your actual monthly housing cost. Fees identified include pet fees, parking fees, and similar recurring charges.
What renters can do
You may want to add up all monthly charges beyond base rent to understand your true monthly cost. Consider asking the landlord whether any of these fees are negotiable or whether some can be bundled into the base rent for clarity. Understanding the full cost picture before signing may help you budget more accurately.
Retaliation for contacting emergency or government services
Critical
The lease appears to contain language threatening adverse action (such as a rent increase, decrease in services, or termination) if the tenant contacts law enforcement, health, or safety services. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-16.1, it is generally illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, including contacting government agencies or emergency services. This type of clause is typically void and unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause immediately, as anti-retaliation provisions are a fundamental tenant protection under North Dakota law. The presence of this language is a serious red flag. If the landlord refuses to remove it, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney or contact local housing authorities before signing.
2 compliance checks — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.
Landlord entry notice period below statutory minimum
Critical
The lease appears to allow the landlord to enter with only the value in your lease hours of notice. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.3 generally requires landlords to provide at least 24 hours of reasonable notice before entering a rental unit (except in emergencies). A notice period shorter than 24 hours may not comply with this requirement.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to revise the entry notice period to at least 24 hours, consistent with North Dakota law. If the landlord is unwilling to make this change, consider consulting a tenant-rights organization or attorney.
The lease appears to grant the landlord the right to enter the unit without reasonable notice or at any time. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.3 generally restricts a landlord's right to enter a tenant's unit and requires reasonable notice (typically 24 hours) for non-emergency entry. Lease provisions that purport to waive this protection may be unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove or revise this clause to comply with North Dakota's entry-notice requirements. A tenant generally has the right to reasonable notice before a landlord enters, except in genuine emergencies. If the landlord refuses to change this language, consider consulting an attorney.
Renewal, Termination & Notice Periods in North Dakota
4 compliance checks — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.
Early termination liquidated damages exceed statutory cap
Critical
The early termination fee of the value in your lease appears to exceed two months' rent (the monthly rent). Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.3, liquidated damages for early termination cannot exceed two months' rent. A fee above this amount may not be enforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to reduce the early termination fee to comply with North Dakota's two-month statutory cap. If the landlord refuses, the excess amount may not be legally collectible.
Missing domestic violence early termination rights
Low
The lease does not appear to mention early termination rights for domestic violence situations. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-17.1 generally allows tenants who are victims of domestic violence to terminate their lease early under certain circumstances. While not required to be disclosed, awareness of this right may be important for tenant safety.
What renters can do
You may want to be aware that North Dakota law generally provides early termination rights for victims of domestic violence. If you or someone in your household ever faces such a situation, consult local domestic violence resources or a tenant-rights attorney about your options.
The lease appears to authorize the landlord to change locks, remove tenant belongings, or shut off utilities without a court order. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.5, a landlord is generally prohibited from engaging in any form of self-help eviction, including interrupting utilities, changing locks, or removing a tenant's property. A landlord who wishes to remove a tenant must generally obtain a court order through the proper legal process. Self-help eviction provisions are typically void and unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause entirely, as self-help eviction is generally illegal in North Dakota. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing. The presence of this clause may signal a willingness to engage in unlawful eviction practices.
Retaliation for contacting emergency or government services
Critical
The lease appears to contain language threatening adverse action (such as a rent increase, decrease in services, or termination) if the tenant contacts law enforcement, health, or safety services. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-16.1, it is generally illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, including contacting government agencies or emergency services. This type of clause is typically void and unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause immediately, as anti-retaliation provisions are a fundamental tenant protection under North Dakota law. The presence of this language is a serious red flag. If the landlord refuses to remove it, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney or contact local housing authorities before signing.
1 compliance check — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.
Tenant appears to waive habitability rights
Critical
The lease appears to contain language asking the tenant to waive or disclaim the warranty of habitability. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.2, a residential tenant generally cannot waive the implied warranty of habitability, and lease provisions attempting to do so are typically unenforceable. This warranty requires the landlord to maintain the property in a condition fit for human occupation.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove any language that purports to waive your habitability rights. Even if such a clause remains in the lease, it is likely unenforceable under North Dakota law. However, its presence may signal the landlord's approach to maintenance responsibilities. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing is strongly advisable.
2 compliance checks — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.
Missing lead paint disclosure for potentially older property
High
The lease does not appear to include a lead-based paint disclosure. Under federal law (42 USC 4852d), landlords of housing built before 1978 are generally required to disclose known lead-based paint hazards and provide an EPA-approved information pamphlet. If this property was built before 1978, the absence of this disclosure may indicate a compliance gap.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord when the property was built. If it was constructed before 1978, request the required lead-based paint disclosure and the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." This is especially important if children will reside in the unit.
The lease does not appear to clearly identify the landlord or authorized agent with their contact information. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-05 generally requires disclosure of the landlord's name and address or the name and address of an authorized agent. This information is important for communicating about repairs, notices, and other tenancy matters.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to provide written contact information including the landlord's name and address, or the name and address of an authorized agent who can receive notices and handle tenancy matters.
Dispute Resolution & Tenant Protections in North Dakota
13 compliance checks — North Dakota-specific rules in the LeaseGuard engine.
Security deposit labeled as nonrefundable
Critical
This lease appears to describe the security deposit as "nonrefundable." Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, security deposits must be refundable except for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or other legitimate deductions. A nonrefundable deposit may not comply with North Dakota law.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove the nonrefundable language and confirm in writing that the deposit will be returned in accordance with North Dakota law. If the landlord refuses, consider consulting an attorney.
The lease does not appear to specify when the security deposit will be returned after you move out. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1 generally requires landlords to return the deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) within 30 days of the tenant vacating the unit. You may want to confirm this timeline is understood by both parties.
What renters can do
Consider asking the landlord to add language confirming the 30-day return timeline required by North Dakota law. Having this in writing may help avoid disputes at move-out.
Security deposit deduction for normal wear and tear
Critical
The lease appears to claim the landlord may withhold part or all of the security deposit for normal wear and tear. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.1, a landlord may only deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs to restore the unit to its condition at move-in. Deducting for normal wear and tear is generally prohibited.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to revise this clause to clarify that deductions will only be made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, consistent with North Dakota law. Consider documenting the condition of the unit at move-in with dated photos to help resolve any disputes at move-out.
Landlord entry notice period below statutory minimum
Critical
The lease appears to allow the landlord to enter with only the value in your lease hours of notice. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.3 generally requires landlords to provide at least 24 hours of reasonable notice before entering a rental unit (except in emergencies). A notice period shorter than 24 hours may not comply with this requirement.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to revise the entry notice period to at least 24 hours, consistent with North Dakota law. If the landlord is unwilling to make this change, consider consulting a tenant-rights organization or attorney.
The lease appears to grant the landlord the right to enter the unit without reasonable notice or at any time. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-07.3 generally restricts a landlord's right to enter a tenant's unit and requires reasonable notice (typically 24 hours) for non-emergency entry. Lease provisions that purport to waive this protection may be unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove or revise this clause to comply with North Dakota's entry-notice requirements. A tenant generally has the right to reasonable notice before a landlord enters, except in genuine emergencies. If the landlord refuses to change this language, consider consulting an attorney.
Missing lead paint disclosure for potentially older property
High
The lease does not appear to include a lead-based paint disclosure. Under federal law (42 USC 4852d), landlords of housing built before 1978 are generally required to disclose known lead-based paint hazards and provide an EPA-approved information pamphlet. If this property was built before 1978, the absence of this disclosure may indicate a compliance gap.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord when the property was built. If it was constructed before 1978, request the required lead-based paint disclosure and the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." This is especially important if children will reside in the unit.
The lease does not appear to clearly identify the landlord or authorized agent with their contact information. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-05 generally requires disclosure of the landlord's name and address or the name and address of an authorized agent. This information is important for communicating about repairs, notices, and other tenancy matters.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to provide written contact information including the landlord's name and address, or the name and address of an authorized agent who can receive notices and handle tenancy matters.
Missing domestic violence early termination rights
Low
The lease does not appear to mention early termination rights for domestic violence situations. North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-17.1 generally allows tenants who are victims of domestic violence to terminate their lease early under certain circumstances. While not required to be disclosed, awareness of this right may be important for tenant safety.
What renters can do
You may want to be aware that North Dakota law generally provides early termination rights for victims of domestic violence. If you or someone in your household ever faces such a situation, consult local domestic violence resources or a tenant-rights attorney about your options.
The lease appears to include an attorney fee clause that may benefit only the landlord. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.6, if a lease provides that one party may recover attorney fees in a dispute, that right is generally made reciprocal by law -- meaning the prevailing party in any action on the lease may recover fees, regardless of which party the clause names. You should be aware that this reciprocity likely applies even if the lease text suggests otherwise.
What renters can do
You may want to be aware that North Dakota law generally makes one-sided attorney fee clauses reciprocal. If a dispute arises and you prevail, you may be entitled to recover your attorney fees even if the lease only mentions the landlord's right to fees. For clarity, you could ask the landlord to make the clause explicitly reciprocal.
The lease appears to contain language asking the tenant to waive or disclaim the warranty of habitability. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.2, a residential tenant generally cannot waive the implied warranty of habitability, and lease provisions attempting to do so are typically unenforceable. This warranty requires the landlord to maintain the property in a condition fit for human occupation.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove any language that purports to waive your habitability rights. Even if such a clause remains in the lease, it is likely unenforceable under North Dakota law. However, its presence may signal the landlord's approach to maintenance responsibilities. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing is strongly advisable.
The lease appears to authorize the landlord to change locks, remove tenant belongings, or shut off utilities without a court order. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.5, a landlord is generally prohibited from engaging in any form of self-help eviction, including interrupting utilities, changing locks, or removing a tenant's property. A landlord who wishes to remove a tenant must generally obtain a court order through the proper legal process. Self-help eviction provisions are typically void and unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause entirely, as self-help eviction is generally illegal in North Dakota. If the landlord refuses to remove this language, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney before signing. The presence of this clause may signal a willingness to engage in unlawful eviction practices.
Retaliation for contacting emergency or government services
Critical
The lease appears to contain language threatening adverse action (such as a rent increase, decrease in services, or termination) if the tenant contacts law enforcement, health, or safety services. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-16.1, it is generally illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, including contacting government agencies or emergency services. This type of clause is typically void and unenforceable.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause immediately, as anti-retaliation provisions are a fundamental tenant protection under North Dakota law. The presence of this language is a serious red flag. If the landlord refuses to remove it, you may want to consult a tenant-rights attorney or contact local housing authorities before signing.
The lease appears to contain a confession of judgment clause, in which the tenant agrees in advance to allow a judgment to be entered against them without notice or the opportunity to be heard. Under North Dakota Century Code Section 47-16-13.1, confessions of judgment are generally void and unenforceable in residential leases. This type of clause attempts to strip the tenant of fundamental due process rights, including the right to contest claims in court.
What renters can do
You may want to ask the landlord to remove this clause entirely, as confessions of judgment are generally void under North Dakota law. The presence of this provision is a serious concern and may indicate other problematic terms in the lease. Consider consulting a tenant-rights attorney before signing if the landlord refuses to remove it.
Want this checked against your specific lease? Upload your North Dakota lease and LeaseGuard runs every rule above against your exact lease wording, returns a risk score, and generates a ready-to-send negotiation letter.
What does LeaseGuard focus on first in a North Dakota lease review?
The first pass focuses on the clauses most likely to create money or access disputes in North Dakota: security deposit terms, entry notice wording, late-fee language, and any state-specific disclosure or timeline requirements mentioned in the lease.
Why does the North Dakota page talk so much about deposits and fees?
North Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. North Dakota does not cap late fees by statute. Those money terms are often where lease language drifts away from what renters expect, so they are a high-value part of every North Dakota review.
What kinds of North Dakota lease clauses should renters double-check before signing?
North Dakota requires reasonable notice before entry. In practice, renters in North Dakota should also double-check clauses about move-out deductions, notice periods, add-on fees, and any lease language that tries to waive standard protections or shift too much risk to the tenant.
Renter guides for North Dakota leases
Before you review your lease, learn how specific clauses work.
This page provides general information about North Dakota landlord-tenant law for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Laws change frequently — always verify current requirements with a licensed attorney in North Dakota.
This North Dakota overview is designed to help renters understand the issues LeaseGuard checks most closely there, especially around 1 month max deposit, required condition report, 30-day deposit return. It is educational guidance, not legal advice, and local ordinances can add extra rules on top of statewide law.