North Dakota Security Deposit Limit
1 month's rent (unfurnished units)North Dakota generally caps residential security deposits at 1 month's rent (unfurnished units) — the cap is not uniform. A lease demanding more than the cap that covers your situation may be unenforceable — the FAQ below covers the exact conditions.
Educational information: generated from our North Dakota law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How North Dakota compares
30 of 51 US jurisdictions cap security deposits by statute; the other 21 set no statewide cap (local caps can still apply in some cities). Here is how North Dakota compares with other states in our database.
| State | Security Deposit Limit |
|---|---|
| North Dakota | 1 month's rent (unfurnished units) |
| Ohio | no statutory limit |
| Oklahoma | no statutory limit |
| Oregon | no statutory limit |
| Pennsylvania | 2 months' rent (first lease year) |
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in North Dakota?
- North Dakota generally limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (unfurnished units). Maximum 1 month rent (unfurnished), 1.5 months (furnished), 2 months (felony/violation history). Pet deposit up to $2,500 or 2 months rent. Must hold in interest-bearing account. Return within 30 days. Penalty: 3x amount wrongfully withheld.
- Does North Dakota require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
- Yes — North Dakota requires landlords to pay interest on held security deposits (leases of 9+ months). It is one of 14 US jurisdictions with an interest requirement.
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in North Dakota?
- North Dakota landlords generally must return the deposit within 30 days after move-out.
Check Your Lease Against North Dakota Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with North Dakota law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
Analyze My Lease FreeEducational tool — not legal advice. First analysis is free, no signup required.
More North Dakota lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in North Dakota for your specific situation.