Security Deposit Laws in North Dakota
North Dakota caps the security deposit at one month's rent in most cases, requires it to be held in an interest-bearing account, and requires return with an itemization within 30 days after the lease ends and the tenant moves out.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
North Dakota at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 1 month's rent
- 1 month's rent (up to 2 months for certain tenants; separate pet deposit allowed)
- Deposit return deadline
- 30 days
- 30 days after lease termination and delivery of possession
- Interest on deposits
- Required in some cases
- State law requires interest only in some situations, for example above a unit count or holding period
- Notice before landlord entry
- See the rule
- Reasonable hours, with notice and tenant consent identifying a time certain unless impractical
The rules in North Dakota
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in North Dakota?
North Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (up to 2 months for certain tenants; separate pet deposit allowed).
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in North Dakota?
North Dakota rule: 30 days after lease termination and delivery of possession.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in North Dakota?
Only in some cases. North Dakota law requires interest only in certain situations, for example above a number of units or after the deposit is held for a set time. Check the statute for the details.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in North Dakota?
North Dakota rule: Reasonable hours, with notice and tenant consent identifying a time certain unless impractical.
Where do the North Dakota rules for residential leases come from?
They come from N.D. Cent. Code ch. 47-16. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How North Dakota compares
North Dakota is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 30-day return deadline is the same as the most common deadline of 30 days; 15 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.