Notify tenant of intent to evict in Minnesota: Minnesota Eviction Notice
What we’ll cover
What is a Minnesota Eviction Notice or Notice to Quit?
If you own or manage residential property in Minnesota, you can create a Minnesota Eviction Notice to notify renters of impending legal action if they do not comply with the terms of the lease agreement or leave the property when lawfully asked to do so.
With Minnesota Eviction Notices, you can enforce your terms, while still giving your tenant(s) time to address the issue before a specific deadline. That said, in some instances, there won't be any resolution, and going to court is inevitable.
Our Eviction Notice for Minnesota can be used for residential property within the North Star State. If rent control or local laws complicate your tenant eviction, you may want to Consult an attorney.
When to use a Minnesota Eviction Notice:
- Your tenant has failed to pay the rent.
- Your tenant has violated a provision of the lease or rental agreement.
- Your tenant materially damaged the property.
- Your tenant is a nuisance or has caused trouble among other tenants.
- Your tenant has used the property for illegal activity.
- You wish to end a periodic tenancy (such as month-to-month).
- The lease has expired and the tenant has remained on the property.
Please note: you may never forcibly evict a tenant without going through the formal tenant eviction process.
Have questions about your Minnesota Eviction Notice?
Whether you're preparing your Minnesota Eviction Notice, reviewing one someone sent you, or just want to understand it better, here's how to get help.
- Understand what it says or review it. Use our AI legal assistant to ask questions about your Minnesota Eviction Notice, understand what it says, and spot anything that may need a closer look.
- Ask an attorney a question. Connect with an attorney for legal information, with a written answer within one business day or a live consultation.
- Get advice on what to do. For privileged, confidential advice about your specific circumstances and next steps, book a Legal Advice Session with an attorney.
Sample Minnesota Eviction Notice
The terms in your document will update based on the information you provide
This document has been customized over 34K times
Documents and communicates
Consult an Attorney to ask questions or review your document
Complies with relevant laws
NOTICE TO PAY RENT OR QUIT
, Minnesota
TO TENANT(S) AND ALL OTHERS IN POSSESSION OF THE PREMISES LOCATED AT:
, , Minnesota
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the tenancy dated
THIS NOTICE IS INTENDED AS FOURTEEN (14) DAY LEGAL NOTICE FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEMANDING RENT BE PAID IN FULL. THIS NOTICE IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH MINNESOTA STATUTE § 504B.135.
LANDLORD RESERVES ALL THE RIGHTS AND REMEDIES PROVIDED UNDER THE RENTAL AGREEMENT AND UNDER APPLICABLE LAWS OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO DAMAGES FOR UNPAID RENT OR PROPERTY AND NOTHING IN THIS NOTICE MAY BE CONSTRUED AS A WAIVER OF SUCH RIGHTS AND REMEDIES.
Dated:
By:______________________________
| , , |
About Eviction Notices in Minnesota
Learn about how to notify tenant of intent to evict in Minnesota
-
Different types and reasons for evictions in Minnesota
REASON FOR EVICTION
TYPE OF NOTICE
NUMBER OF DAYS FOR NOTICE
LAWS
Nonpayment of rent
“Minnesota Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate”
14 days’ notice
Minnesota Statutes § 504B.291
Violation of lease or rental agreement
“Minnesota Notice to Cure”
Landlord’s choice
Minnesota Statutes § 504B.291
Termination of weekly periodic tenancy
“Minnesota Notice to Terminate Tenancy”
7 days’ notice
Minnesota Statutes § 504B.135
Termination of monthly periodic tenancy
“Minnesota Notice to Terminate Tenancy”
30 days’ notice
Minnesota Statutes § 504B.135
Lease holdover
“Minnesota Notice to Terminate Tenancy”
30 days’ notice
Minnesota Statutes § 404B.141
Regardless of the type of notice you need, we can help you build it. Get started now!
-
Requirements, liabilities, and tenant protection for evictions in Minnesota
EVICTION NOTICE REQUIREMENTS IN THE CASE OF: NONPAYMENT OF RENT
A landlord may start the process to evict a tenant who hasn't paid rent. For leases longer than 20 years, they must give a 30-day notice before taking further steps. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.291)
EVICTION NOTICE REQUIREMENTS IN THE CASE OF: NONCOMPLIANCE
There is nothing contained in subdivisions 2 and 3 of Minn. Stat. § 504B.285 that prevents a landlord from ending a lease if a tenant breaks any important rules in the lease or causes damage to the property. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.285, Subd. 4)
When a landlord wants to take back the property, they may include claims for unpaid rent and lease violations together in the same lawsuit. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.285, Subd. 5)
NOTICE REQUIREMENTS AND LANDLORD LIABILITY REGARDING PERSONAL PROPERTY
After getting the court's permission to take back the property, the landlord must handle the tenant's belongings properly. If they don't take good care of them and something gets damaged, the landlord is responsible. If the tenant doesn't pay the landlord to move the belongings within two months, the landlord may then sell the items to cover the costs. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.365)
The landlord may sell or dispose of the tenant's belongings if it looks like the tenant has abandoned them and hasn't come back for it. However, they must wait at least 28 days after they're sure the tenant's gone. Before selling the stuff, the landlord must try to tell the tenant about the sale at least 14 days beforehand. They can do this by giving a written notice in person or sending it by mail to the tenant's address.
They also have to post a notice about the sale on the property where it's easy to see, at least two weeks before selling anything. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.271)
TENANT PROTECTION REGARDING FORECLOSURES
Tenants living in a foreclosed property must be notified about the foreclosure process, including advice and information about the process itself. (Minn. Stat. § 580.042) Once the landlord knows about a foreclosure sale, they must inform any potential tenants about the sale and when the previous owner's time to buy back the property ends. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.151)
During the last month before the previous owner's time to buy back the property ends, a tenant can use their security deposit as the last month's rent payment. (Minn. Stat. § 504B.178)
MORE RELEVANT LAWS
Minn. Stat. § 504B.151; Minn. Stat. § 504B.178; Minn. Stat. § 504B.271; Minn. Stat. §§ 504B.281 through 504B.471; Minn. Stat. § 580.042; Minn. Stat. § 504B.291.
-
How to write a Minnesota Eviction Notice
Below is a list of details you may need when preparing a Minnesota Eviction Notice. Not all items will apply to every situation. Any documents related to the rental agreement, lease violation, including any late rent notices or proof of lease violation, will also be helpful.
1. Start with the rental addresses
Addresses of the rental property and landlord or property management company.
2. List all tenant names
Every tenant listed on the Lease Agreement, pays rent, or lives there must be included in the notice.
3. Include the status and date of the Lease Agreement
Whether the lease is still active or not, or if there is a lease at all.
4. Detail the reason that the notice is being served
Landlords should always refer to state laws regarding evictions to make sure they have a legally valid reason to evict a tenant. The reason for the eviction will determine the type of notice being delivered.
Review each provision in the lease or rental agreement. If you are evicting tenants for unpaid rent, determine the amount of unpaid rent, if any. If you are evicting tenants for lease violations, determine violations of the lease or rental agreement, if any. Including documentation and the original lease agreement is also a good idea.
Remember, you will need to confirm that any policies and terms referred to in the Eviction Notice are actually present in the fully executed rental contract or lease agreement.
5. Provide the number of days for the notice period
The Eviction Notice should clearly spell out how much time the tenant has to resolve the situation before further legal action is taken. Rocket Lawyer can help you determine how much notice is required for your state and situation and build the right type of Eviction Notice.
6. Attach the proof of service
When using a proof of service to document the delivery of an Eviction Notice, the serving party should sign the document at the time of delivery. In Minnesota, this is often called an Affidavit of Service.
Luckily, you don't need to start from scratch when making a Minnesota Eviction Notice with Rocket Lawyer. Just answer a few simple questions and we’ll build the right eviction notice for the situation, as well as help with next steps on how to serve your Eviction Notice.
-
The eviction process in Minnesota: what happens after making an Eviction Notice?
Now that you have made your Minnesota Eviction Notice with Rocket Lawyer, you might be wondering: what now?
The next step is to serve it. You must sign the notice before serving it on the tenant(s) – and there are a few methods for serving the notice:
- Send it via certified mail with a return receipt (if unable to deliver in person or post it).
- Hire a process server.
- Deliver the notice personally.
Please remember that "self-help" or "DIY" evictions are illegal in Minnesota. Landlords shouldn't throw out belongings, shut off utilities, change the locks, or in any way attempt to intimidate tenants in an effort to force them to move. Taking the appropriate lawful actions before and throughout the eviction process is critical to removing tenants successfully under a court order.
What happens after the notice period?
If a tenant does not pay rent or move out after the notice period, the landlord can choose to file an eviction lawsuit, also known as an Unlawful Detainer.
What are some essentials throughout the eviction process?
As you prepare to file for an eviction, it is always a good idea to work with a lawyer. An attorney with experience in evictions can answer your questions and help make sure you follow local laws and processes. Also, outside of reviewing your Eviction Notice document, your lawyer can help you prepare and argue your case once it goes in front of a judge.
In order to assemble all of your records for your lawyer, you may want to fill out an Eviction Process Worksheet. This document provides basic information about your tenant and their violation(s) of your rental agreement. You can also attach documentation, including a copy of the lease, photographs of the damage, repair estimates, written statements of witnesses, police reports, and other records to support your case.
If you need to move forward with legal action after delivering the Eviction Notice, you will need to file your lawsuit properly with the local courts. The Minnesota website can tell you which documents you will need to file and what the fees might be – or you can ask a lawyer to get started and find an attorney in your state. A local lawyer with experience in evictions can help you navigate the process efficiently.
Minnesota Eviction Notice FAQs
-
Do I need an Eviction Notice in Minnesota?
Generally speaking, yes, if you wish to remove a tenant from your Minnesota rental property, you must always provide them with a Notice of Eviction first to start the process.
Some of the most common situations in which you might need one include:
- The tenant is habitually late to pay their rent or they are behind on payments.
- The tenant has caused substantial damage.
- The tenant harasses or disturbs the quiet enjoyment of their neighbors.
- The tenant is using your property for an illegal business.
- The tenant gets a dog or cat and the rental contract forbids pets.
- The tenant sublets their unit in breach of the agreement.
Outside of these violations, a renter may also be evicted for reasons unrelated to anything they’ve done wrong – like when the property owner needs to move back in.
Please note that the list above isn't exhaustive and that the acceptable reasons for evicting a tenant may be a little different from place to place. If you've got any concerns about Minnesota eviction laws, reach out to a attorney.
-
Do I need a lawyer if I am evicting someone in Minnesota?
While you can choose to make a Minnesota Eviction Notice without support from a lawyer, many landlords find having a lawyer available for questions and consultations extremely helpful. The eviction process often involves strict requirements, deadlines, and documentation, and mistakes can lead to delays or even dismissal of your case. An attorney experienced in evictions can help you follow the correct procedures, prepare your notice, and handle more complex situations—especially if the tenant disputes the eviction.
Rocket Lawyer makes the process easier. You can create the appropriate eviction notices and use Rocket Copilot to review your documents, identify potential issues, and feel more confident before moving forward.
-
How do Minnesota eviction laws affect me as a rental property owner?
Laws change depending on where you (and your property) are. The notice periods in Minnesota, for example, might be different from the ones in other states – in fact, there might even be differences between counties and cities. All the ways the document may be served to the tenant also vary.
This is all to say that the eviction process and restrictions can be complicated to navigate, particularly when keeping in mind state-specific requirements. As a result, it is strongly recommended that every property owner Consult an attorney when making a Notice of Eviction in Minnesota - or anywhere else - to any tenant.
-
How do I create a Minnesota Eviction Notice template for free?
Don’t worry – you don’t have to make it all on your own: you can use the document tools on Rocket Lawyer to make a Minnesota Eviction Notice for free. All you have to do is answer a few simple questions and we will put together a customized notice for you, piece by piece, and with all the details customized to your situation. This is often much less time-consuming than other solutions.
-
How is a Minnesota Notice to Vacate structured?
That might change a little depending on the type of Eviction Notice you may need. However, some information must always be provided. Before getting started, you might want to gather the following critical details:
- The address and description of the property.
- The renter's contact information.
- How many past due rent payments should be made (if any) to bring the tenant into compliance with the lease or rental agreement.
- Which of the lease clauses have been violated (and a copy of the Lease Agreement, in this case).
- How much time the tenant has to resolve the situation.
In the event that the tenant isn't at fault, you may want to provide more context. Further customization is permitted as well. You'll need to confirm that all of the policies and terms mentioned in the Minnesota Eviction Notice are present in the fully executed rental contract.
-
How much might it normally cost to evict a tenant in Minnesota?
The cost of evicting a tenant in Minnesota can vary depending on your situation. Common expenses may include court filing fees, service of notice costs, and, if needed, attorney fees. If the eviction becomes contested or goes to court, costs can increase. Because the process involves strict legal requirements and timelines, mistakes can lead to delays or additional expenses.
Rocket Lawyer can help you manage costs by making it easy to create the required eviction notices and stay on track. You can also use Rocket Copilot to ask questions or review your documents, or you can Consult an attorney about your specific situation.
-
How long does it take to complete the Minnesota eviction process from beginning to end?
The duration of the eviction process for Minnesota tenants will usually depend on the notice period required, as well as the lawsuit period if you proceed with one.
Below, you'll find a basic explanation of Minnesota notice periods to get you started:
- Rent-related: 14-day notice for "at-will" tenants.
- Violation of terms: No notice is required by law.
- No cause: 3-month notice or the rent payment period, whichever is less.
If the tenant decides to leave before the notice period ends - which is common - the process actually becomes a lot shorter.
If that doesn’t happen, when your notice period is over, the actual eviction may take anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months. Please note that with certain kinds of housing, for instance where rent is subsidized, the mandated notice period is often even longer.
-
What are my next steps after I have made an Eviction Notice/Notice to Quit in Minnesota?
After making a Minnesota Eviction Notice, the next step is to serve it in accordance with state and local law. This typically involves delivering the notice in person, by substituted service, or by posting and mailing it, depending on the situation and local laws.
Once the notice period has passed, you can move forward with filing an unlawful detainer (eviction) case in court if the tenant has not complied with the notice.
-
What happens after the given notice period is over in Minnesota?
If a tenant does not pay rent after being given a notice, the landlord can choose to file an eviction lawsuit, also known as an Unlawful Detainer.
