Montana Landlord-Tenant Law FAQ’s - Part 1

In the first posting of this multi-part series we will cover some frequently asked questions regarding Montana Landlord-Tenant law.

Q:  When are move-in condition reports required?

A:  A written move-in condition report is required if there is a security deposit.  If there is no security deposit then a move-in condition report is not required.

See MCA – 70-25-206

Q:  Is a landlord required to notify the tenant of any cleaning necessary prior to deducting cleaning expenses from a security deposit?

A:  Yes.  A landlord must provide the tenant with a notice, which includes the type of cleaning required, and a 24 hour period to perform any necessary cleaning prior to deducting cleaning expenses from a security deposit.  This does not apply if the tenant moved out without notice.

See MCA – 70-25-201

Q:  When can a new rule be in effect if it substantially modifies a tenant’s bargain of their rental agreement?

A:  The new rule would not be in effect until after 30 days notice for month-to-month tenancies, or after the initial term of the agreement for tenancies longer than month-to-month.

See MCA – 70-24-311