Can a Minnesota landlord charge you for carpet cleaning when you move out?
Short answer
Only when the carpet is dirtier or more damaged than normal wear and tear. Minnesota law lets a landlord keep only what's reasonably needed to restore the unit, and requires a written reason within three weeks after the tenancy ends and you give a forwarding address. This is general information, not legal advice.
Pet spots or stains before your move out inspection? Move out carpet cleaning typically runs $150 to $400. Call or text OxyMagic Carpet Cleaning in Blaine, MN at 763-213-6217. We answer 8AM to 8PM, 7 days, and you can text anytime.
$129 for two carpeted rooms That's the starting price. More rooms or extras? You'll get the price in writing before we start.
Part 1 of 5
What counts as normal wear and tear?
The statute doesn't list carpet examples. The Attorney General's office notes that carpet is a common move out dispute, and that a landlord and tenant may see acceptable carpet wear differently.
Everyday traffic wear from living there is the kind of thing the law calls ordinary wear and tear. Pet accidents, large stains, or burns are the kind of thing landlords argue goes beyond it. If you disagree with a deduction, the law puts the burden on the landlord to prove the reason.
Part 2 of 5
Your rights at move out
- Ask for the move out inspection. Minn. Stat. 504B.182 says landlords must offer it, and its purpose is to let you fix problems before deductions.
- Take dated photos and video of every room, carpet included, the day you leave (Attorney General).
- Read your lease for cleaning terms, but know that the deposit law can't be waived by contract (504B.178, subd. 10).
- Give your forwarding address in writing. The three week clock starts after the tenancy ends and the landlord has your address.
- If you disagree, you can file in conciliation court in the county where the rental is (subd. 9), and the Attorney General asks tenants charged for normal wear and tear to report it.
Part 3 of 5
When getting the carpet cleaned makes sense
If your pets had accidents or there are real stains, cleaning before the inspection can cost less than a deduction, and the invoice shows what was done. Ask your landlord what they expect first, and keep the invoice with your move out photos.
OxyMagic's move out carpet cleaning usually costs $150 to $400 for carpet only, and carpet cleaning starts at $129 for two carpeted rooms. You'll get the price in writing. See move in and move out carpet cleaning.
Part 4 of 5
This isn't legal advice
This page summarizes Minnesota statutes and Attorney General guidance as of September 2026. For your situation, contact the Minnesota Attorney General's Office or a tenant attorney.
Part 5 of 5
Before you hand back the keys
Read your lease for any cleaning terms.
Ask your landlord in writing for a move out inspection.
Take dated photos and video of every room, including the carpet.
Fix what the inspection flags, like pet spots or stains, and keep receipts.
Give your forwarding address in writing.
Watch for your deposit or a written statement within 21 days.
Related questions
Is carpet cleaning normal wear and tear in Minnesota?
In a 2023 settlement, the Attorney General's position was that a landlord can't charge for professional carpet cleaning when the carpet isn't damaged beyond normal use. Real stains or pet damage can be a different story. This isn't legal advice.
Can my lease require professional carpet cleaning when I move out?
In that 2023 settlement, the landlord had to remove lease terms requiring tenants to obtain or pay for professional carpet cleaning. Minnesota's deposit law can't be waived by contract. For your lease, ask the Attorney General's office or a tenant attorney.
How long does a Minnesota landlord have to return a security deposit?
Three weeks (21 days) after the tenancy ends and the landlord has your forwarding address, with 1% interest, or a written statement of the reasons for any deduction. If the building is condemned, it's five days.
Sources
- Minn. Stat. 504B.178, Security Deposits Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes, 2025 Minnesota Statutes
- Minn. Stat. 504B.182, Initial and Final Inspection Required Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes, 2025 Minnesota Statutes
- Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities (handbook) Minnesota Attorney General, Revised July 2025
- Vacating Your Apartment Minnesota Attorney General, Accessed September 29, 2026
- Attorney General Ellison wins relief for tenants whose landlord allegedly unlawfully withheld amounts from security deposits Minnesota Attorney General, March 13, 2023
Brand names belong to their owners. Outside prices and ratings change, so get a written quote before you book.
Want us to handle it?
We use a low-moisture, hydrogen peroxide clean, so most carpets are dry in an hour or two, depending on the carpet and the weather.