Senate Bill No. introduced by M. Dunwell aims to revise tenant move-out laws in Montana by clarifying what constitutes normal wear and establishing limits on deductions from security deposits. The bill defines normal wear to include minor damages such as small nail holes, scuffs, and visible wear in high-traffic areas. It stipulates that landlords cannot charge for their labor beyond the prevailing costs of professional cleaning and prohibits deductions for painting or recarpeting after a tenancy of two or more years. Additionally, if professional cleaners are used, landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the cleaner's bill.

The bill also revises timelines related to wrongful withholding of security deposits, reducing the notice period for landlords from 30 days to 21 days for providing a list of damages and any charges to tenants after the termination of a tenancy. It requires landlords to notify tenants of any cleaning that needs to be done and allows tenants 24 hours to address these issues. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that a tenant who fails to provide notice of intent to vacate relieves the landlord of the requirement to give notice. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance tenant protections and ensure fair practices regarding security deposits and move-out procedures.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1(1): 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1(2): 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1(3): 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1(4): 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1(5): 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1(6): 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204
SB0126_1: 70-25-201, 70-25-202, 70-25-204