Minnesota Repair & Habitability Laws

Minnesota landlords must keep rental units in reasonable repair and compliant with health and safety codes.

Key Rules

Repair And Deduct
Not explicitly codified in Minnesota statutes
Rent Withholding
Yes — rent escrow procedure available for housing code violations
Habitability Standard
Reasonable repair; health and safety code compliance
Rent Escrow Process
Tenant files rent escrow petition in district court; hearing held within 14 days

Some citations below have not been confirmed against their official source. Confirm current requirements with local legal aid or an attorney.

Applicable Statutes

Minn. Stat. § 504B.161

Covenants of landlord: landlord must keep the premises in reasonable repair and maintain compliance with applicable health and safety codes throughout the tenancy.

Not confirmed against its source · checked

Minn. Stat. § 504B.385

Rent escrow proceeding: tenant may deposit rent into court escrow if the rental unit has a material violation of housing code conditions that threatens health or safety.

Not confirmed against its source · checked

Legal Aid Resources

HOME Line (Minnesota)

612-728-5767

Statewide Minnesota (tenant hotline)

Read the Full Repair & Habitability Laws Guide

Our comprehensive guide covers federal law, common defenses, real-world examples, and what to do if your rights are being violated.

Read the complete Repair & Habitability Laws guide →

Need Personalized Guidance?

Our free wizard helps you identify your specific issue and find the right next steps.