Minnesota State Real Estate Practice Test

What must a landlord do if they fail to provide a lease as required?

1. Face a major felony charge

2. Be liable for damages to the tenant

3. Be guilty of a petty misdemeanor

4. Nothing, if the tenant does not complain

The correct answer is: Be guilty of a petty misdemeanor

In the context of Minnesota real estate law, if a landlord fails to provide a written lease as required by statute, this act can result in being classified as a petty misdemeanor. This implies that while it is a violation of the law, it does not carry the severe consequences associated with felonies or more serious misdemeanors. A petty misdemeanor typically involves a lesser level of offense, and while it may not lead to criminal charges, it acknowledges the landlord's failure to adhere to legal requirements. Thus, the landlord may potentially face a fine or other administrative repercussions, but it does not carry the weight of a major criminal charge like a felony would. This designation serves to encourage landlords to comply with paperwork obligations and protect tenants' rights. A landlord's failure to provide a lease could lead to various legal challenges, but the specific categorization as a petty misdemeanor helps clarify the level of offense and outlines that there is a need for compliance rather than offering severe punitive measures.