Minnesota State Law

Minneapolis Security Deposit Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Under Minn. Stat. §504B.178, Minneapolis landlords have 21 days to return your deposit after move-out. Potentially up to 2x your deposit if they miss the deadline or make improper deductions.

Check My Minneapolis Deposit

Minneapolis Key Rules

Security Deposit Rules at a Glance

Return Deadline

21 days

21 days after move-out, per Minn. Stat. §504B.178

Penalty if Late

Potentially up to 2x your deposit

Applies automatically on deadline violation

Itemization Required

Yes

Written itemization required within 21 days

Common Questions

Minneapolis Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord in Minneapolis have to return my security deposit?

Under Minn. Stat. §504B.178, Minnesota landlords have 21 days after move-out to return your security deposit along with an itemized written statement of any deductions. The clock starts on your official move-out date.

What happens if my Minneapolis landlord keeps my deposit illegally?

If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the deadline or makes bad-faith deductions, your landlord may owe you up to 2x the deposit amount as a penalty. This is governed by Minn. Stat. §504B.178, subd. 4. You can start by sending a formal demand letter and, if necessary, file a claim in Minnesota small claims court (limit: $20,000).

Can my Minneapolis landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?

No. Minnesota law explicitly prohibits deductions for normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration that results from ordinary use of the property over time, such as minor scuffs, faded paint, or worn carpet. Landlords may only deduct for actual damage beyond normal use that you caused.

How do I dispute a security deposit deduction in Minneapolis?

Start by sending your landlord a formal written demand letter citing Minn. Stat. §504B.178. State the amount owed, the deadline violation or improper deductions, and the penalties that apply. If your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, you can file a small claims court case in Minnesota (limit: $20,000). GetItBack can generate a personalized demand letter for free in under 2 minutes.

Know Your Rights

Your Rights as a Minneapolis Renter

Timely return: Your landlord must return your deposit within 21 days after move-out. Missing this deadline can entitle you to penalties under Minn. Stat. §504B.178.
Written itemization: If your landlord makes any deductions, they must provide a written itemized statement within 21 days. Failure to do so can forfeit their right to keep any portion of the deposit.
No normal wear and tear deductions: Minnesota law explicitly prohibits deductions for normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot charge you for minor scuffs, faded paint, or worn carpet that results from ordinary use.
Penalty enforcement: If your landlord violates the law, you can demand potentially up to 2x your deposit. Start with a formal demand letter, then escalate to Minnesota small claims court if needed. The filing limit in Minnesota is $20,000.