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Minnesota Landlord Guide

Everything you need to know about landlord-tenant laws, security deposits, eviction procedures, and property management in Minnesota.

Security Deposit
No state limit
Return Period
21 days after move-out
Non-Payment Notice
14-day notice to pay or quit
Rent Control
No

Minnesota Rental Market Overview

Minnesota's rental market centers on the Twin Cities metro (Minneapolis-St. Paul), which has seen significant tenant protection expansions in recent years. Minneapolis and St. Paul have passed local ordinances including rent stabilization (St. Paul, effective 2022) and advance notice requirements. Outside the metro, markets like Rochester, Duluth, and St. Cloud offer more traditional landlord-tenant dynamics. Minnesota has no state security deposit limit but requires interest payments on deposits held over a year. The state's cold climate means heating system maintenance is particularly important for landlords.

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit

No state limit (reasonable amount)

Return Timeline

21 days after move-out (3 weeks)

Allowed Deductions

  • Unpaid rent
  • Damage beyond normal wear
  • Unpaid utilities (if agreed in lease)
  • Costs to re-rent if tenant breaks lease

Eviction Process

Notice Periods

Non-Payment of Rent
14-day notice to pay or quit
Lease Violation
Immediate termination for material violations; reasonable time for minor issues
Month-to-Month Termination
One rental period (typically 30 days) for month-to-month

Court Process

File eviction action in District Court. Hearing within 7-14 days. Writ of recovery issued immediately after judgment if tenant doesn't vacate.

Rent Control Information

St. Paul passed rent stabilization in 2021 limiting increases to 3% annually. Minneapolis has studied but not implemented rent control. State law doesn't preempt local rent control.

Cities with Local Rent Control:

St. Paul (3% annual cap)

Required Landlord Disclosures

Minnesota law requires landlords to provide the following disclosures to tenants:

  • Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978)
  • Landlord/agent contact and address for notices
  • Outstanding inspection orders or condemnation
  • Covenant not to sue acknowledgment (if applicable)
  • Screening criteria disclosure (Minneapolis/St. Paul)

Late Fee Rules

Must be stated in lease. Cannot be excessive (8% of rent considered reasonable). No required grace period statewide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manage Minnesota Properties with UnitHub

Stay compliant with Minnesota landlord-tenant laws. UnitHub helps you track security deposits, send proper notices, and automate rent collection.