Minnesota Eviction & Landlord Tenant Law

Landlord-tenant disputes are relatively common. An issue such as the proper timing of rent payments could cause discord. When a dispute arises, it may be important to work with a professional with experience handling these issues.

A Minnesota landlord-tenant dispute lawyer could help both parties protect their rights during disputes. A skilled real estate lawyer could discover evidence concerning the disagreement, represent a party’s interest during negotiations, and present convincing cases to judges in case of a trial.

What Landlords Can Expect During Disputes

Every landlord in Bloomington assumes certain responsibilities when allowing a tenant to live on their property. Minnesota Statute §504B.161 states that a landlord must keep their property fit for its intended use, under good repair, reasonably energy-efficient, and in compliance with the relevant health and safety laws.

A landlord must draft rental leases that contain these clauses and also fully define the landlord-tenant relationship. Common topics that should be included leases and could be sources of conflict if they do not include:

• The amount and timing of rent
• Processes for lease termination
• The status of security deposits
• Which party is liable to pay for utilities

Unfortunately, some conflicts between landlords and tenants may result in an eviction. However, landlords cannot simply throw a tenant out without proper cause. Eviction is a legal process that all landlords must follow. Whether an eviction is based on a lack of rent, an illegal use of property, or a refusal to vacate at the end of a lease term, a Bloomington landlord-tenant dispute lawyer could help landlords protect their property.

Legal Rights of Tenants in Minnesota

Tenants also have substantial rights under Bloomington landlord-tenant laws. Just as a landlord must provide a safe and habitable living space, a tenant has the right to expect compliance with these laws.

Additionally, specific laws protect the right of tenants to the enjoyment of their rented property. A core concept in landlord-tenant law is that a tenant has a right to privacy. MN Statute §504B.211 provides that a landlord may only enter a unit for a reasonable business purpose and only after making a good faith attempt to contact the renter. This entry can be for the purpose of performing maintenance work, showing the unit to a prospective new tenant, or investigating a bona fide disturbance complaint.

Tenants also have rights in case of a potential eviction. MN Statute §504B.271 says that in case of tenant abandonment of the unit, the landlord cannot dispose of property for at least 28 days following the date of abandonment. Furthermore, a tenant can remain on the property, regardless of circumstances, until an eviction is finalized by a court.

A Minnesota Landlord-Tenant Dispute Attorney May be Able to Help

The laws in Minnesota and around the state are clear when it comes to defining the landlord-tenant relationship. Both parties have various obligations concerning the payment of rent, the maintenance of the property, and the enjoyment of the land. A Bloomington landlord attorney could help reach a negotiated settlement. Call today to discuss your situation.