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 building 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 bill is the definition of "reasonable heat," which specifies that from October 1 to April 30, the temperature must not be less than sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). This clarification aims to ensure that tenants have a clear understanding of the heating standards they can expect during the colder months. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance tenant protections and clarify landlord responsibilities in maintaining safe and habitable living conditions.

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