Minnesota state has various laws regarding the use of rental applications. If your document is not compliant with MN law, you may get sued by the applicant and face legal consequences.
Application Fee
There are limits in terms of what application fee can be charged by Minnesota landlords. Property owners may charge no more than the costs of screening the tenant necessary. Any money taken above this amount must be refunded.
Security Deposit
Minnesota doesn’t set any limits on how much you can charge as a security deposit. However, it is recommended not to charge more than 1-2 months rent.
You must return this deposit within 3 weeks of the end of tenancy, or within 5 day under circumstances. (MN Statutes 504B.178)
Housing Discrimination Law
Minnesota has no specific housing discrimination law, but the federal Fair Housing Act applies.
It prohibits asking about race, religion, sex, nationality, disability, or similar traits on rental applications or using them in tenant selection.
Notice of Eligibility
Potential tenants must be informed about the screening criteria and reasons for denial or approval. To prove that these facts were shared, a signature of acknowledgment must be provided within the application or alongside it.
Consent Credit Check
Within Minnesota, federal law is in effect that requires potential renters to provide written consent for a credit history check during the application process. This is known as the Federal Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).