Landlord Entry Laws in North Dakota

How much notice does a landlord have to give in North Dakota?

North Dakota requires landlords to give reasonable advance notice before entering under N.D. Cent. Code § 47-16-07.3. The statute does not set a specific hour count — courts typically treat 24 hours as reasonable in practice.

What is your landlord allowed to enter for in North Dakota?

Under N.D. Cent. Code § 47-16-07.3, permitted entry reasons in North Dakota include:

• Repairs and maintenance
• Inspections
• Showing to prospective tenants
• Showing to prospective buyers
• Agreed-upon services
• Emergencies
• Apparent abandonment

What counts as an emergency in North Dakota?

Emergency entry permitted at any time without notice. Entry is also permitted without notice on reasonable belief of tenant abandonment or of a substantial lease violation.

What are your remedies if your landlord enters without notice in North Dakota?

If your landlord violates entry rules in North Dakota, your remedies under N.D. Cent. Code § 47-16-07.3 may include:

• Actual damages

In practice, start by documenting the unauthorized entry (photos, texts, a written log), then send a written objection citing the statute. If violations continue, consult a local tenant-rights attorney or your state's housing court.

Important North Dakota-specific notes

North Dakota (§ 47-16-07.3) requires the landlord to first notify and receive the tenant's consent (not to be unreasonably withheld) to enter at a time certain, unless giving notice is impractical. Entry must be during reasonable hours and in a reasonable manner. Notice may be given by personal service, conspicuous posting, or any method resulting in actual notice — the statute does not require writing. Statutory purposes include inspection; necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements; supplying services; and showing the unit to actual or potential purchasers, insurers, mortgagees, real estate agents, tenants, workers, or contractors. The landlord may also enter without notice on a reasonable belief of tenant abandonment or of a substantial lease violation, in addition to emergencies. The landlord shall not abuse the right of access or use it to harass or intimidate the tenant.