What can a tenant legally do if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

If a tenant in North Dakota lives in a living environment that is not considered habitable, then the tenant has certain legal rights. First, the tenant has the right to inform the landlord that the living environment is in an unlivable condition. The tenant should do this in writing and document all damages, so they can be used as evidence in the event of a dispute. The tenant can also legally withhold rent. Withholding rent in North Dakota is only legal if the landlord is not providing a habitable living environment. The tenant is not allowed to use the withheld rent for any other purpose, and must deposit it in a trust account until the issue is resolved. The tenant can also sue the landlord in small claims court for damages caused by the landlord’s failure to provide a habitable living environment. If successful, the small claims court judge may award the tenant damages for the cost of repair, any rent paid during the time the property was unlivable, and other fees such as attorney’s fees or court costs. Finally, the tenant can also end the rental agreement without penalty if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment. The tenant must provide written notice to the landlord and follow the state’s guidelines for ending the rental agreement. In conclusion, a tenant in North Dakota has certain legal rights when their landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment. The tenant can inform the landlord, withhold rent, sue the landlord, and end the rental agreement.

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What can a tenant legally do if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

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