Know Your Rights: Montana Tenants

Based on Montana landlord‑tenant law (Title 70, Chapter 24). Missoula does not have local code enforcement for private rentals – these rights are enforced by you, with legal help if needed.

1. Security Deposits

• Cannot exceed one month’s rent (unless additional for pets).
• Must be returned within 10 days of move‑out, or 30 days if you dispute deductions.
• Landlord must provide an itemized list of any deductions.
• If wrongfully withheld, you can sue in small claims court.

2. Repairs & Habitability

• Landlord must keep the unit fit for human habitation (heat, running water, electricity, structural safety).
• Notify the landlord in writing (use our repair request template).
• If repairs aren’t made within a reasonable time (usually 14 days), you may have options: withhold rent (with legal advice), break the lease, or sue for damages.
• Keep records: photos, emails, certified mail receipts.

3. Entry by Landlord

• Landlord must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering (except emergencies).

4. Evictions

• Landlord must provide a written notice stating the reason and the time to fix it (usually 3 days for non‑payment, 14 days for other lease violations).
• Only a court can order an eviction – self‑help evictions (locking out, shutting off utilities) are illegal.
• If you receive a court summons, do not ignore it. Contact Montana Legal Services immediately.

5. Retaliation

• It is illegal for a landlord to evict or raise rent in retaliation for you exercising your legal rights (e.g., requesting repairs, joining a tenant union).

Need more detail? Download the full Montana Tenant Rights Handbook (PDF).

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