HF2985 Summary

• Landlords of residential buildings with 12+ units must provide written leases to tenants; failure to do so is a petty misdemeanor.

• Late fees on rent payments are prohibited unless tenant and landlord agree in writing, with fees not imposed before five days after rent is due and cannot exceed the amount specified in section 47.59, subdivision 6, paragraph (a), clause (4).

• Landlords receiving cash or money order rent payments must provide written receipts immediately upon in-person payment or within one business day if payment is made by mail.

• Security deposits and advance rent payments are limited to one month's rent (or 1-1/4 months if pets are included); violations result in liability for the deposit amount plus $500 in damages.

• Tenants may deduct emergency repair costs from rent after providing 48 hours' notice to the landlord, if repairs involve utilities, sanitary facilities, cooking facilities, refrigeration, elevators, or air conditioning (June 1-August 31 only), and comply with code requirements and licensing; tenants may terminate leases with seven days' notice if landlords fail to make substantial progress on repairs.