MT HB311

Property managers of four or more dwelling units must refund rental application fees within a reasonable time if the applicant does not sign a rental agreement

Property managers may deduct only out-of-pocket costs for services actually performed (such as credit checks) and must provide written notice of cost allocations when collecting the fee

Costs for the property manager's time or effort in arranging or performing services cannot be retained from the application fee

Applicants may bring a civil action to recover wrongfully withheld fees, with attorney fees potentially awarded to the prevailing party at the court's discretion

The burden of proof for services rendered falls on the property manager; applies to fees collected on or after the act's effective date