Watford City, ND Security Deposit Laws 2026
North Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month(s) of rent. In Watford City, that's $1,354 at the median 2BR rent of $1,354/month. Miss the 30-day return deadline and you could owe $2,708+.
In North Dakota, landlords must return security deposits within 30 days after move-out. The maximum deposit is 1 month(s) of rent. Failure to return on time or provide an itemized statement can result in penalties of $2,708 or more.
Key Takeaways — Watford City Security Deposit Laws
- Maximum deposit: 1 month(s) of rent = $1,354 at Watford City's median rent
- Return deadline: 30 days after tenant moves out
- Penalty for late return: Up to 2x the deposit ($2,708)
- Itemized statement: Required with any deductions
Security Deposit Laws in Watford City
Under North Dakota law, landlords in Watford City may collect a maximum security deposit of 1 month(s) of rent, regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. At Watford City's median 2-bedroom rent of $1,354/month, that means the most you can legally collect is $1,354.
$1,354
max deposit (1mo × $1,354)
30 days
return deadline
$2,708
max penalty for late return
Returning the Deposit: The 30-Day Clock
Once a tenant moves out of your Watford City rental, North Dakota law gives you exactly 30 days to either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. The clock starts on the day the tenant surrenders possession — not when you inspect the unit.
What you can deduct from a security deposit in Watford City:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to restore the unit to move-in condition
- Costs for restoring or replacing personal property (if lease allows)
What you cannot deduct:
- Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, carpet wear, faded paint)
- Pre-existing damage (document with photos at move-in)
- Professional cleaning if the tenant left the unit in reasonable condition
Penalty Warning
Violate North Dakota security deposit laws rules in Watford City and you could owe $2,708+. At Watford City's median rent of $1,354/month, even a single violation adds up fast.
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How Watford City Rents Affect Deposit Amounts
Deposit amounts scale with local rents. Here's what Watford City landlords typically collect:
| Unit Size | Median Rent (Watford City) | Max Deposit (1mo) | Penalty Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,117/mo | $1,117 | $2,234 |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,124/mo | $1,124 | $2,248 |
| 2-Bedroom | $1,354/mo | $1,354 | $2,708 |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,672/mo | $1,672 | $3,344 |
Rents based on HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for McKenzie County.
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Security Deposit Laws in Nearby Cities
Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:
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Download Free ChecklistReviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
