A North Dakota standard lease agreement is a legally binding document that specifies the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant in a rental contract. Typically, this agreement is for a fixed period of one (1) year.
Considerations on Lease Length
- There is no specific maximum lease duration. Leases can be of any length as long as the term is specific and agreed in writing by both the landlord and tenant.
- Oral leases cannot usually exceed one year.
- If a tenant remains in possession of the property after the lease expires and the landlord accepts rent, it is presumed that the lease is renewed on the same terms for the same time, not exceeding one year. If the lease is for residential purposes, the renewal is presumed to be a month-to-month tenancy if there’s no automatic renewal clause (NDCC § 47-16-06).
- Leases cannot exceed 99 years in duration (NDCC § 47-16-02).
Security Deposit
- Maximum Amount ($): One month’s rent. (§ 47-16-07.1)
- Returning to Tenant: Within 30 days. (§ 47-16-07.1(3))
Rent Grace Period
There is no rent grace period for paying rent. (§ 47-16-20)
Landlord Resources
- Landlord-Tenant Laws – Chapter 47-16 (Leasing of Property).
- Handbook – North Dakota Eviction for Tenants Guide (PDF).
