Across the US, lawmakers are working on improving tenant protection and increasing housing affordability. One of the areas getting the most attention?
Fee transparency.
Several new laws are changing how landlords must disclose rental prices, ensuring tenants know the full cost of the rental upfront, before they’ve applied or signed a lease.
In this article, we’ll go over the new transparency laws that will take effect starting in 2025 (and beyond) across Minnesota.
Minnesota
Since January 1, 2024, Minnesota law requires all non-optional fees appear alongside rent fees in listings and on the first page of the lease.
Why These Laws Matter
These changes are all part of a national movement to eliminate hidden fees (otherwise known as “junk fees”) and promote fair, transparent housing practices. With states like California and Massachusetts leading the way, more states are likely to follow.
How Landlords Can Prepare
To stay compliant and continue building trust with your tenants, here are a few tips:
- Audit your current listings to ensure all fees are clearly stated
- Review your leasing flow so the total price is shown before collecting renter info
- Update leases with auto-renewal disclosures that are simple and easy to understand
Final Thoughts
While updating your processes to reflect these new laws can be time-consuming, know that fee transparency is a benefit that both landlords and tenants can experience. Providing upfront pricing builds trust and ensures tenants are fully prepared to rent your property.
