North Dakota
North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Recording Laws: Rights for Renters and Landlords (2026)
Under North Dakota's one-party consent law, N.D. Cent. Code 12.1-15-02, any party to a conversation may record it without notifying the other party, so both tenants and landlords may record their own interactions. Landlords cannot install cameras inside a rental unit where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
North Dakota's one-party consent law under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-15-02 allows tenants to record conversations with landlords, property managers, and maintenance workers. Both phone calls and in-person conversations can be recorded as long as the tenant is a participant and the recording is not for criminal or unlawful purposes.
This guide covers tenant recording rights, landlord surveillance rules, using recordings in housing disputes, hidden camera protections, and practical advice for both renters and landlords.
Tenant Recording Rights
Tenants can record in-person and phone conversations they participate in with landlords. Common recording situations include move-in/move-out inspections, repair requests, lease negotiations, harassment documentation, and security deposit disputes.
The recording must not be for criminal or unlawful purposes. Documenting habitability issues, preserving verbal agreements, and gathering evidence for legal proceedings are all lawful purposes.
Landlord Surveillance Rules
Landlords can install cameras in common areas (hallways, lobbies, parking lots, laundry rooms, exterior areas). Cameras cannot be placed inside individual rental units, bathrooms, or any area where tenants have a reasonable privacy expectation.
Hidden cameras in rental units can result in criminal charges under North Dakota privacy laws and civil liability for invasion of privacy.
Using Recordings in Housing Disputes
Recordings are admissible evidence in North Dakota courts for eviction proceedings, security deposit disputes, habitability claims, and small claims court. The North Dakota Legal Self Help Center provides resources for tenants representing themselves.
Under N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1, landlords must return security deposits within 30 days. Video recordings of property condition at move-in and move-out support deposit dispute claims.
If You Find a Hidden Camera
Document the camera, contact law enforcement, and consult an attorney. Resources include the North Dakota Attorney General and Legal Services of North Dakota.
More North Dakota Recording Laws
Audio Recording | Video Recording | Voyeurism & Hidden Cameras | Workplace Recording | Recording Police | Phone Call Recording | Security Cameras | Recording in Public | Landlord-Tenant | Dashcam Laws | Schools | Medical Recording
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I record my landlord in North Dakota?
Yes. Under one-party consent, you can record conversations you participate in with your landlord, both in-person and by phone. The recording must not be for criminal or unlawful purposes.
Can my landlord put cameras inside my apartment in North Dakota?
No. Tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy inside their rental units. Landlords can place cameras only in common areas.
Can I use a recording as evidence in an eviction case in North Dakota?
Yes. Lawfully made recordings are generally admissible in North Dakota courts for eviction proceedings, security deposit disputes, and habitability claims.
Can I install a doorbell camera at my rental in North Dakota?
Generally yes for interior-facing cameras. For exterior cameras, check your lease for rules about modifications to the building exterior.
What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my North Dakota rental?
Document the camera, contact law enforcement, and consult with an attorney about civil remedies for invasion of privacy.
Sources and References
- N.D.C.C. § 12.1-15-02(ndlegis.gov).gov
- N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1(ndlegis.gov).gov
- ND Attorney General(attorneygeneral.nd.gov).gov
- North Dakota Courts - Legal Self Help(ndcourts.gov).gov
- Legal Services of North Dakota(legalassist.org)