North Dakota landlords have 30 days after move-out to return your deposit. Learn when key replacement and lock change charges deductions are and aren't allowed under N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1.
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Check My DepositNorth Dakota landlords can charge reasonable costs for unreturned keys, but the charge must be proportionate to the actual cost. Key duplication typically costs $2–$10 per key. Charging for a full rekeying system ($200–$400) because a tenant forgot to return one copy of a standard key is generally disproportionate — unless security was genuinely compromised. If you returned all keys but your landlord claims otherwise, the burden is on them to prove the keys were not returned. Normal wear on key fobs, garage openers, and similar items from regular use is not chargeable under North Dakota law. Lock changes during tenancy are typically the landlord's cost to bear unless you caused the need for the change through negligence or breach of lease.
Return ALL keys at move-out and get a written receipt. Keep this receipt — it proves you returned keys and protects you from false key charges. If possible, photograph all returned keys before handing them over. A full rekeying charge for a single unreturned key is very likely disproportionate.
Quick Answer
Whether this deduction is valid in North Dakota depends on your specific circumstances. Document thoroughly and get a free analysis.
North Dakota landlords can charge reasonable costs for unreturned keys, but the charge must be proportionate to the actual cost. Key duplication typically costs $2–$10 per key. Charging for a full rekeying system ($200–$400) because a tenant forgot to return one copy of a standard key is generally disproportionate — unless security was genuinely compromised. If you returned all keys but your landlord claims otherwise, the burden is on them to prove the keys were not returned. Normal wear on key fobs, garage openers, and similar items from regular use is not chargeable under North Dakota law. Lock changes during tenancy are typically the landlord's cost to bear unless you caused the need for the change through negligence or breach of lease.
Tip
Return ALL keys at move-out and get a written receipt. Keep this receipt — it proves you returned keys and protects you from false key charges. If possible, photograph all returned keys before handing them over. A full rekeying charge for a single unreturned key is very likely disproportionate.
Is your deduction charge legal?
Free analysis · North Dakota law · 2 minutes
Check My North Dakota Deposit (Free)Regardless of whether a key replacement and lock change charges deduction is valid, your North Dakota landlord must provide a written itemized statement of all deductions within 30 days. Each line item must identify the specific charge and dollar amount. A vague entry like “key replacement and lock change charges: $X” without further detail is generally insufficient under N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1. If the itemization was missing or untimely, the deduction may be invalid regardless of its merits.
Check the itemization
Did your landlord provide a written itemized statement within 30 days of move-out? If not, the deduction may be automatically invalid under N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1.
Gather your evidence
Compile your move-in and move-out photos, any written notes about the unit's condition, your lease, and any receipts. Timestamped photos are especially powerful.
Run a free analysis
Use our free tool to evaluate your claim. We check your North Dakota key replacement and lock change charges dispute against N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1, calculate any penalties, and generate a personalized demand letter.
Send a demand letter
A formal demand letter citing N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1 often resolves disputes before court. Our $19 package generates a personalized letter with your specific situation and the exact statute.
File in small claims if needed
North Dakota small claims court handles disputes up to $15,000. No attorney required. Most deposit cases are heard within 4-8 weeks.
Legal Reference
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Questions
Your North Dakota landlord has 30 days after your move-out date to return your security deposit along with an itemized statement of any deductions. This deadline is set by N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1.
If your landlord misses the 30-day deadline, you may be entitled to up to 2× the amount wrongfully withheld under N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1. This penalty applies automatically. You don't need to prove intent.
No. North Dakota law under N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1 explicitly prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear. This includes faded paint, minor scuffs, small nail holes, and carpet thinning from regular use. Deductions must be for actual damage beyond what normal living causes.
Key Replacement and Lock Change Charges deductions can be legitimate in some circumstances in North Dakota, but must be specific, documented, and beyond normal wear and tear. Return ALL keys at move-out and get a written receipt. Keep this receipt — it proves you returned keys and protects you from false key charges. If possible, photograph all returned keys before handing them over. A full rekeying charge for a single unreturned key is very likely disproportionate.
First, check whether the deduction appeared in a proper itemized statement provided within 30 days of move-out. If it did, evaluate whether the charge reflects actual damage beyond normal wear. If the itemization was late or missing, the deduction may be invalid regardless of its merits under N.D. Cent. Code §47-16-07.1. Use our free analysis tool to check your specific situation.
Free analysis | North Dakota law | 2 minutes
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