The bill amends section 47-16-13.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, which outlines the obligations of landlords towards their tenants in residential dwelling units. Key responsibilities include compliance with health and safety codes, maintaining the premises in a habitable condition, ensuring common areas are clean and safe, and keeping essential facilities like plumbing and heating in good working order. The bill also allows landlords and tenants to agree in writing for tenants to perform certain maintenance tasks, provided these agreements are made in good faith and do not affect the landlord's obligations to other tenants.

A significant addition to the law is the definition of "reasonable heat," which is specified as a temperature of not less than sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit between October 1 and April 30. This clarification aims to ensure that tenants have a clear understanding of the heating standards they can expect during colder months. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe and habitable living environment while allowing for flexibility in landlord-tenant agreements regarding maintenance responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 47-16-13.1
Adopted by the House Agriculture Committee: 47-16-13.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 47-16-13.1