Renter's Rights

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is required to maintain all electrical, plumbing and heating systems as required by State law. City requirements include smoke detection, escape windows in all sleeping rooms and adequate on-premise parking.

Security Deposits

A landlord may require a security deposit. It may not exceed one month's rent unless "special conditions" exist which pose a danger to maintenance of the premises; i.e., waterbed or pet.

When a tenant moves out the landlord is required either to return the deposit or to provide a written statement showing the specific reason for not returning it. This must be done within two weeks after the termination of the lease and the landlord's receipt of the tenants new mailing address. If the landlord withholds the deposit the tenant may demand an itemized account of the deposit withheld. This must be provided within 45 days of request.

•  Renter's Rights and Responsibilities Brochure (PDF)

Financial Assistance

Heating
Interlakes Community Action
(605) 692.6391

Rent
Brookings Housing Redevelopment
1310 Main Avenue South
(605) 692.1670

Notice of Eviction

The only lawful way to evict a tenant is for the landlord to obtain a court order signed by a judge. A tenant must be given three days notice to vacate before an eviction action can be initiated by the landlord.

Renter's Insurance

Do not assume that your possessions are covered by the landlord in case of fire or water damage or other disasters. You should consider renter's insurance. Renter's insurance is designed to protect you from this type of problem and is available at a fairly inexpensive rate. For more information contact an insurance agent.

Civil Rights

You cannot be refused rental housing or be given unequal treatment with respect to finding, obtaining, occupying or enjoying rental housing because of you race, religion, color, creed, sex, national origin (does not include citizenship), ancestry, marital status or disability.