Building Codes & Habitability — Minnesota
Warranty of habitability, repair obligations, and city rental programs
State Habitability Standard
Implied warranty of habitability under state landlord-tenant law
Contact local housing authority for specific statutory citations and requirements.
Minimum Habitability Requirements
- Structural safety: sound roof, walls, floors
- Working plumbing and hot water
- Adequate heat
- Working electrical systems
- Pest-free premises
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Repair Obligations & Tenant Remedies
Rent Withholding
Consult local housing code — varies by condition severity
Minnesota does not have a statutory repair-and-deduct remedy. Tenants must typically pursue code enforcement or court action for habitability failures. Consult Minnesota Landlord-Tenant Act (Minn. Stat. §§ 504B.001 et seq.) for current tenant remedies.
City-Level Rental Programs
Minneapolis, MN — Rental Program Details
Registration Required
Yes
Fee Per Unit
$50/unit
Inspection Program
Minneapolis Rental Licensing Program
Inspection Frequency
Every 1-3 years based on Tier rating; on complaint
Minneapolis requires a rental license for each property ($50 base + per-unit fees). Properties are assigned a Tier (1-4) based on inspection history; Tier 4 properties inspected annually. Minneapolis Fair Chance in Housing Ordinance is one of the most restrictive in the country — bans most criminal history use in tenant screening. Minneapolis Fair Housing Policy: source of income (Section 8) is protected.
Governing Statute
Minnesota Landlord-Tenant Act (Minn. Stat. §§ 504B.001 et seq.)
This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.