Iowa Landlord-Tenant Law
The rules for renting in Iowa — security deposits, eviction, ending a lease, repairs and rent — with the statute or official page behind every answer.
Quick answers for Iowa
- Security deposit limit
- Two months' rent. Iowa Code § 562A.12(1)
- Deposit return deadline
- Within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. If no address is provided within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlord. Iowa Code § 562A.12(3)-(4)
- Notice for unpaid rent
- 3 days' written notice of nonpayment and of the landlord's intent to terminate if rent is not paid within that period. After that notice, no separate 3-day notice to quit is required before filing. Iowa Code § 562A.27(2); § 648.3(1)
- Ending a month-to-month lease
- Either party: written notice at least 30 days before the periodic rental date specified in the notice. Week-to-week: at least 10 days. Terms longer than month-to-month: at least 30 days before the end of the term. Iowa Code § 562A.34
- Landlord entry notice
- At least 24 hours' notice and entry only at reasonable times, except in an emergency or where impracticable. Landlord may enter without consent in an emergency, and may not abuse access to harass. Tenant may not unreasonably withhold consent for inspections, repairs, services, or showings. Iowa Code § 562A.19
- Rent control / increase limits
- Preempted: cities and counties may not adopt or enforce any limit on the amount of rent for private residential or commercial property (except property in which the local government has an interest). No statewide cap. Iowa Code § 364.3(9) (cities); § 331.304(10) (counties)
Last verified against official sources: 2026-10-22
Security Deposits in Iowa
| Security deposit limit | Two months' rent. Deposits must be held in a federally insured bank, savings and loan, or credit union and not commingled with the landlord's personal funds. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.12(1) |
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| Deposit return deadline | Within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. If no address is provided within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlord. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.12(3)-(4) |
| Itemized deductions | Written statement showing the specific reason for withholding any portion; if withheld for restoration, it must specify the nature of the damages. Allowed deductions: unpaid rent or other funds due under the lease, restoring the unit to move-in condition (ordinary wear and tear excepted), and costs of recovering possession from a tenant who fails in bad faith to vacate. Landlord bears the burden of proof. A landlord who fails to send the statement within 30 days forfeits all rights to withhold any portion (§ 562A.12(4)). Source: Iowa Code § 562A.12(3) |
| Interest on deposits | No interest owed to the tenant for the first five years of a tenancy; deposits may be held in an interest-bearing account and interest earned during the first five years belongs to the landlord. The statute does not expressly state who owns interest after year five. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.12(2) |
| Penalty for withholding | Bad-faith retention: actual damages plus punitive damages of up to twice the monthly rent; court may award reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing party. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.12(7)-(8) |
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Eviction in Iowa
| Notice for unpaid rent | 3 days' written notice of nonpayment and of the landlord's intent to terminate if rent is not paid within that period. After that notice, no separate 3-day notice to quit is required before filing. Notice to quit served by mail is deemed complete 4 days after mailing (§ 648.3(3), https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/648.3.pdf). |
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| Notice for lease violations | 7 days' written notice specifying the breach; the lease terminates if the breach is not remedied within 7 days. A repeat of substantially the same breach within 6 months allows termination on 7 days' notice without a right to cure. For a clear and present danger to others, a single 3-day notice of termination and notice to quit. Clear and present danger: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/562A.27A.pdf. Public housing agencies may give a 30-day notice for federal-regulation violations (§ 562A.27(5)). |
| Lockouts & utility shutoffs | If the landlord unlawfully removes or excludes the tenant or willfully interrupts electric, gas, water or other essential services, the tenant may recover possession (or terminate the lease) and recover actual damages, punitive damages up to twice the monthly rent, and reasonable attorney fees. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.26 |
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Notice to Vacate in Iowa
| Ending a month-to-month lease | Either party: written notice at least 30 days before the periodic rental date specified in the notice. Week-to-week: at least 10 days. Terms longer than month-to-month: at least 30 days before the end of the term. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.34 |
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Landlord Entry in Iowa
| Landlord entry notice | At least 24 hours' notice and entry only at reasonable times, except in an emergency or where impracticable. Landlord may enter without consent in an emergency, and may not abuse access to harass. Tenant may not unreasonably withhold consent for inspections, repairs, services, or showings. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.19 |
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Repairs & Habitability in Iowa
| Repair and deduct | Limited. (1) If the landlord deliberately or negligently fails to supply heat, running water, hot water, or essential services, the tenant may give written notice and procure them and deduct the actual, reasonable cost from rent. (2) In a nonpayment eviction it is a defense, and the cost is deducted from rent claimed, if the tenant gave at least 7 days' notice before the rent due date of intent to fix a lease/§ 562A.15 violation, the reasonable cost was no more than one month's rent, and the repair was made in good faith before the landlord's termination notice. § 562A.27(4): https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/562A.27.pdf |
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| Withholding rent | No general right to withhold rent. In a nonpayment possession action, the tenant may counterclaim for amounts owed by the landlord; the court may order rent paid into court and decides the net amount due. Tenant may also terminate on 7 days' notice for an uncured material landlord breach and sue for damages (§ 562A.21, https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/562A.21.pdf). Source: Iowa Code § 562A.24 |
| Retaliation protection | Landlord may not raise rent, decrease services, or bring or threaten an action for possession after the tenant complains to a code-enforcement agency about a health/safety violation, complains to the landlord about a § 562A.15 violation, or organizes or joins a tenants' union. A good-faith complaint within one year before the alleged retaliation creates a presumption of retaliation. Tenant may recover actual damages and attorney fees and has a defense to eviction. Exceptions: tenant-caused code violations, rent default, or code compliance requiring the tenant's displacement; rent increases matching higher costs are a defense to the presumption. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.36 |
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Rent Increases & Late Fees in Iowa
| Rent control / increase limits | Preempted: cities and counties may not adopt or enforce any limit on the amount of rent for private residential or commercial property (except property in which the local government has an interest). No statewide cap. County provision: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/331.304.pdf |
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| Late fees | Rent of $700/month or less: late fee may not exceed $12 per day or $60 per month. Rent over $700/month: not more than $20 per day or $100 per month. Added by 2013 Acts, ch 97. No statutory grace period. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.9(4) |
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Breaking a Lease in Iowa
| Ending a lease: domestic violence | No statute — Iowa Code ch. 562A contains no right for domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking survivors to end a lease early. Related protection: a landlord may not limit, penalize, fine, or evict a tenant for summoning police or emergency help for a victim of abuse or crime or in an emergency (tenant may recover a civil penalty of one month's rent, among other remedies). |
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| Ending a lease: military, medical, death | No statute found in Iowa Code ch. 562A giving early-termination rights for medical reasons, seniors moving to care, military service (beyond federal SCRA), or tenant death. State military code (ch. 29A) not searched for a lease-termination right. Source: Iowa Code ch. 562A (checked) |
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Squatters & Abandoned Property in Iowa
| Squatters / unauthorized occupants | No special affidavit or police-removal statute. The owner uses the summary forcible entry and detainer (FED) action, which lies where the defendant entered the owner's prior actual possession 'by force, intimidation, fraud, or stealth' and keeps possession. For that ground, the 3-day written notice to quit otherwise required before filing is not required. Thirty days' peaceable possession with the plaintiff's knowledge after the cause of action accrues bars the FED action, so owners should act promptly. Notice to quit: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/648.3.pdf. 30-day bar: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/648.18.pdf. Criminal trespass (ch. 716) not reviewed. No 2026 Iowa Act amended ch. 648 or ch. 716. |
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| Belongings left behind | No statute — the residential landlord-tenant law (ch. 562A) has no procedure for belongings left in an apartment or house; §562A.29 covers only re-renting an abandoned unit, and the FED judgment/execution sections (§648.22) are silent on personal property. Iowa Code ch. 555B sets a removal, storage, sheriff-notice, and court abandonment process only for abandoned mobile homes and the owner's personal property in or around them. Ch. 555B: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/555B.2.pdf |
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Rental Fees in Iowa
| Application / screening fees | No statute — no cap, refund rule, or reusable-screening-report rule was found in Iowa Code ch. 562A. |
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| Other rental fees | No general junk-fee or fee-disclosure statute. The only statutory fee limit found is the late-fee cap (rent up to $700/month: $12/day, $60/month max; rent over $700: $20/day, $100/month max). Landlords may not charge fees or penalties for a tenant's summoning police or emergency assistance. §562A.27B: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/562A.27B.pdf |
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Section 8, Records & Right to Counsel in Iowa
| Section 8 / source of income | No. Iowa has no statewide source-of-income protection, and since Jan. 1, 2023 cities and counties may not adopt or enforce ordinances barring landlords from refusing to rent to someone because they use a federal Housing Choice Voucher (existing local ordinances became void). County provision: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/331.304.pdf. Iowa Civil Rights Act housing section (§216.12) was downloaded but not reviewed for an income category; none is known. |
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| Eviction record sealing | No statute — the 2026 Iowa Code's forcible entry and detainer chapter (ch. 648) contains no sealing or record-removal provision. Bills to seal dismissed/defendant-won cases (HF 548, 2023) and to allow later sealing of nonpayment cases (HSB 261, 2025 study bill) were not found in the enacted Code. Bill information comes from a search, not verified bill-history pages. No 2026 Iowa Act (2026 Iowa Acts chs. 1001-1201) added eviction-record sealing. |
| Right to a lawyer in eviction | No statewide right to counsel in eviction cases was found in Iowa Code ch. 648 or ch. 562A. |
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Mold, Pests, Heat & AC in Iowa
| Mold | No statute — Iowa has no mold-specific landlord-tenant law. Mold is handled under the landlord's duties to comply with building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety and to make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to keep the premises fit and habitable. Tenants must keep their part of the premises as clean and safe as conditions permit and use ventilation and plumbing reasonably (§ 562A.17). |
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| Pests & bed bugs | No statute — Iowa does not specifically assign pest or bed-bug treatment or require a bed-bug disclosure. Infestations fall under the landlord's fit-and-habitable and code-compliance duties; tenants must keep their unit clean and dispose of garbage and waste in a clean and safe manner. Local housing codes may set extermination duties. |
| Heat | Yes. The landlord must supply running water, reasonable amounts of hot water at all times, and reasonable heat — unless the building is not required by law to be so equipped or the heat/hot water is generated by equipment under the tenant's exclusive control with a direct utility connection. Heating facilities supplied by the landlord must be kept in good and safe working order. No numeric minimum temperature is set by state statute. For a single-family residence, the parties may agree in writing, in good faith, that the tenant supplies heat and hot water (§ 562A.15(2)). Local codes may set temperatures. |
| Air conditioning | No duty to install air conditioning and no maximum indoor temperature. Air-conditioning facilities supplied or required to be supplied by the landlord must be maintained in good and safe working order. Tenants must use A/C equipment in a reasonable manner (§ 562A.17(5)). Source: Iowa Code § 562A.15(1)(a)(4) |
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Privacy, Guests & Animals in Iowa
| Cameras & privacy | No landlord-specific statute. Knowingly viewing, photographing, or filming another person in full or partial nudity, without consent, where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, for sexual gratification, is invasion of privacy (an aggravated misdemeanor). Intercepting oral communications is unlawful unless the person is a party or one party consents. The landlord must give at least 24 hours' notice before entry (except emergencies or impracticability), enter at reasonable times, and not use access to harass. Recording audio inside a tenant's unit when the landlord is not a party to the conversation is likely unlawful interception. Entry statute: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/562A.19.pdf |
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| Guests & occupants | No statute — the lease and reasonable landlord rules govern guests, occupancy, and roommates. Tenants may not knowingly permit anyone to damage the premises and must not disturb neighbors' peaceful enjoyment. Occupancy limits come from local codes and fair-housing standards. Source: Iowa Code § 562A.17(6), (7) |
| Service & support animals (state law) | Iowa law lets a person with a disability request to keep an assistance or service animal as a reasonable accommodation; the landlord must respond within a reasonable time and in writing. If the disability or need is not readily apparent, the landlord may request supporting information, which may be a licensed provider's written finding stating, among other things, whether a provider-patient relationship (in person or telehealth) has existed for at least 30 days, the expiration date, license number, and whether a separate fee was paid for the finding. Online registrations, ID cards, patches, or certificates are not sufficient. Landlords may not request diagnosis, severity, or medical records; may require proof of licensure and vaccination; and may deny for undue hardship, fundamental alteration, direct threat, or substantial property damage. Tenants are liable for damage caused by the animal. Intentionally misrepresenting an animal as a service animal is a simple misdemeanor. Sections 216.8B and 216.8C (2019) were amended in 2024 (ch. 1092) and 2025 (ch. 30). The provider's finding must be made within 12 months of the start of the lease and is valid for 12 months or the lease term, whichever is greater. Finding requirements: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/216.8C.pdf |
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How eviction works in Iowa
Eviction cases are heard in: Iowa District Court (commonly sitting in small claims) in the county where the premises are located.
- Serve written notice: 3-day notice to pay (nonpayment), 7-day notice to cure (lease violation), 30-day notice (month-to-month), or 3-day notice for clear and present danger
- If required, serve a 3-day notice to quit (not needed after a 3-day nonpayment termination notice)
- File a forcible entry and detainer petition; court sets a hearing within 8 days of filing (up to 15 days if plaintiff requests)
- Serve original notice at least 3 days before the hearing (acknowledged delivery, personal service, or posting plus regular and certified mail after two failed attempts)
- Hearing before the court (tried as an equitable action, no jury in small claims)
- Judgment for removal; execution for the defendant's removal issues within 3 days of judgment and is carried out by the sheriff
Hearing set no later than 8 days after filing (15 days if plaintiff requests or consents); service at least 3 days before hearing; defendant may request a continuance if served fewer than 3 days before the hearing.
Source: Iowa Code §§ 648.3, 648.5, 648.22, 631.1(2)
What surprises people about Iowa rental law
- Iowa caps late fees by rent level: $12/day or $60/month for rent of $700 or less, $20/day or $100/month above that (Iowa Code § 562A.9(4))
- A landlord who misses the 30-day deposit statement deadline forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit (Iowa Code § 562A.12(4))
- Eviction hearings must be set within 8 days of filing (Iowa Code § 648.5)
- Lockouts and utility shutoffs expose the landlord to punitive damages of up to twice the monthly rent plus attorney fees (Iowa Code § 562A.26)
- Landlords may fix tenant-caused health/safety problems after 7 days' written notice and bill the tenant as rent (Iowa Code § 562A.28)
- Cities and counties are barred from rent control (Iowa Code §§ 364.3(9), 331.304(10))
Federal law that also applies in Iowa
These federal rules apply on top of Iowa law, mostly to discrimination, servicemembers, survivors and federally assisted housing:
- Fair Housing Act: protected classes, covered housing and exemptions: Save every listing, text and email. A discriminatory ad is illegal even when the landlord's unit is otherwise exempt. More
- Assistance animals (service and emotional support animals) in housing: Ask for the accommodation in writing, keep a copy, and if a disability or the need for the animal is not obvious, offer reliable documentation of it. More
- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act: ending a lease early: Deliver the notice and orders by a method you can prove, such as certified mail with return receipt, and keep copies. More
- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act: eviction protection: Tell the court in writing that you or your spouse are on active duty and ask for an SCRA stay. More
- VAWA housing protections: Ask the landlord or housing authority for its VAWA emergency transfer plan and request a transfer in writing. More
- CARES Act 30-day notice to vacate (covered dwellings): If your building has a federally backed mortgage or federal subsidy and you received less than 30 days' notice to vacate, raise the CARES Act as a defense. More
- HUD 30-day nonpayment notice (public housing and project-based Section 8): If you pay the full amount listed in the notice within 30 days, the landlord cannot file for eviction over that rent. More
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) basics for private landlords: If a voucher landlord asks for 'side payments' above your share of the rent, refuse and report it to your PHA. More
- Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 housing): If your pre-1978 lease came with no lead disclosure form and pamphlet, ask for them in writing before signing. More
- FCRA tenant screening: adverse action notices and disputes: Request your free report from the screening company within 60 days of a denial and dispute any errors in writing with supporting documents. More
- Rental 'junk fee' rulemaking and enforcement (FTC/CFPB): Before paying an application fee, ask in writing for the total monthly cost including every mandatory fee. More
- Federal eviction moratoria: Check your state and city rules, since any eviction pause now comes from local, not federal, law. More
City rules in Iowa
These cities add their own tenant protections on top of state law:
Eviction by county in Iowa
Which court hears evictions, filing fees, local rent levels and help:
For landlords
How to evict a tenant in Iowa — steps, cost, timeline and forms.
Common Iowa questions
- Can a landlord enter without notice or permission?
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
- Can a landlord evict you without going to court, change the locks or shut off utilities?
- Can I withhold rent for repairs?
- How long does an eviction take?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give before an eviction?
- Can a landlord raise the rent in the middle of a lease?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give to end a lease or not renew?
- How much can a landlord charge for a late fee?
- Can a landlord retaliate against a tenant for complaining?
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit?
- How long does a landlord have to sue for unpaid rent or damages?
- Can a landlord accept rent during an eviction?
- Can you be evicted in the winter?
- Can a landlord give an eviction notice by text or email?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give before raising the rent?
- Does a landlord have to give you a copy of the lease?
- What happens to tenants if the landlord goes into foreclosure?
- How long does a landlord have to keep a tenant's belongings?
- How do you remove a squatter?
- How much can a landlord charge for a rental application fee?
- What rental fees are illegal (junk fees)?
- Can I break my lease because of domestic violence?
- Can I break my lease for military orders, medical reasons or a death?
- Can a landlord refuse Section 8?
- Can an eviction be removed from your record?
- Do tenants get a free lawyer for an eviction?
- What are my rights without a written lease?
- Does a landlord have to fix mold?
- Who pays for pest control and bed bugs in a rental?
- Does a landlord have to provide heat?
- Does a landlord have to provide air conditioning?
- What can a landlord charge for at move-out (cleaning, painting, carpet)?
- Can a landlord put cameras in or around a rental?
- Can a landlord limit overnight guests or roommates?
- Can a landlord deny a service or emotional support animal?
- Can a landlord evict you for no reason?
Free calculators
- Notice Deadline Calculator
- Security Deposit Deadline Calculator
- Late Fee Checker
- Rent Increase Calculator
How Iowa compares to neighboring states
| State | Security deposit limit | Deposit return deadline | Notice for unpaid rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | Two months' rent. Iowa Code § 562A.12(1) | Within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. If no address is provided within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlord. Iowa Code § 562A.12(3)-(4) | 3 days' written notice of nonpayment and of the landlord's intent to terminate if rent is not paid within that period. After that notice, no separate 3-day notice to quit is required before filing. Iowa Code § 562A.27(2); § 648.3(1) |
| Illinois | No statewide legal limit on the amount of a security deposit. Illinois AG fact sheet 'Landlord and Tenant Rights and Laws' (01/24) | If the landlord withholds anything for damage, an itemized statement with estimated or actual repair costs and paid receipts is due within 30 days after the tenant vacates (or possession ends, whichever is later); if no statement is given, the full deposit must be returned within 45 days after the tenant vacates. 765 ILCS 710/1 | Written demand giving not less than 5 days after service to pay; if unpaid, landlord may end the lease and file for eviction. To keep partial payments from invalidating the notice, it must state that only FULL PAYMENT waives the right to terminate. 735 ILCS 5/9-209 |
| Minnesota | No statewide cap on the amount of a security deposit. Minn. Stat. § 504B.178 | Within three weeks after the tenancy ends (and after the landlord receives the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions), return the deposit with interest or give a written statement of reasons for withholding. Within 5 days if the tenant must leave because the building is legally condemned (unless the tenant's own willful, malicious, or irresponsible conduct caused it). Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, subd. 3 | Before filing an eviction for nonpayment of rent (residential), the landlord must deliver a written notice giving the tenant 14 days to pay. The notice must state the total due, an itemized accounting (rent, late fees, other charges), who is authorized to receive payment and where, and required statements about legal help and rental assistance. Delivery is personal or by first-class mail to the rental address. Minn. Stat. § 504B.321, subd. 1a |
| Missouri | Landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit of more than two months' rent. RSMo 535.300.1 | Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the full deposit or send an itemized list of damages along with any remaining balance. Mailing to the tenant's last known address satisfies the duty. RSMo 535.300.3 | No fixed pay-or-quit notice period. Landlord must demand the rent; if it is unpaid, landlord may file a rent-and-possession statement. The one-month termination notice of 441.060 is not required before filing. RSMo 535.020 |
| Nebraska | One month's periodic rent (any security however labeled). A separate pet deposit of up to one-fourth of one month's periodic rent may also be charged. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 | 14 days after the tenancy terminates (balance plus written itemization delivered or mailed; if no forwarding address is given, mail first-class to the last-known address). Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 | 7 calendar days' written notice of nonpayment and intent to terminate; landlord may terminate if rent is not paid within that time. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1431(2) |
| South Dakota | One month's rent, unless landlord and tenant agree to a larger deposit where special conditions pose a danger to maintenance of the premises. SDCL 43-32-6.1 | 21 days after the tenancy ends and the landlord receives the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions: return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. SDCL 43-32-24 | No statutory notice to quit. The landlord may file a forcible entry and detainer (eviction) action once rent has been unpaid for three days after it is due. The first legal step is filing and serving a verified complaint and summons. SDCL 21-16-1(4); SDCL 21-16-6; SDCL 21-16-2 (repealed) |
| Wisconsin | No statutory cap on the amount of a security deposit. Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06; Wis. Stat. § 704.28 | 21 days. If the tenant leaves on the termination date, the clock starts on that date. If the tenant leaves or is evicted early, it starts on the termination date, or when a new tenancy begins if the landlord re-rents first. If the tenant leaves after the termination date, it starts when the landlord learns the tenant has left or been removed. Wis. Stat. § 704.28(4); Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06(2) | Month-to-month/week-to-week: 5-day pay-or-vacate notice, or (month-to-month only) a 14-day notice to vacate with no right to cure. Lease of 1 year or less: 5-day pay-or-vacate; if the tenant was late within the past year, a 14-day notice to vacate. Lease over 1 year: 30-day notice to pay. Wis. Stat. § 704.17(1p)(a), (2)(a), (3)(a) |
Iowa landlord-tenant FAQ
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Iowa?
Two months' rent. (Iowa Code § 562A.12(1))
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Iowa?
Within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. If no address is provided within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlord. (Iowa Code § 562A.12(3)-(4))
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Iowa?
No interest owed to the tenant for the first five years of a tenancy; deposits may be held in an interest-bearing account and interest earned during the first five years belongs to the landlord. (Iowa Code § 562A.12(2))
Does a landlord in Iowa have to give an itemized list of deposit deductions?
Written statement showing the specific reason for withholding any portion; if withheld for restoration, it must specify the nature of the damages. Allowed deductions: unpaid rent or other funds due under the lease, restoring the unit to move-in condition (ordinary wear and tear excepted), and costs of recovering possession from a tenant who fails in bad faith to vacate. Landlord bears the burden of proof. (Iowa Code § 562A.12(3))
What happens if a landlord in Iowa wrongfully keeps a security deposit?
Bad-faith retention: actual damages plus punitive damages of up to twice the monthly rent; court may award reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing party. (Iowa Code § 562A.12(7)-(8))
How much notice does a landlord have to give before evicting for unpaid rent in Iowa?
3 days' written notice of nonpayment and of the landlord's intent to terminate if rent is not paid within that period. After that notice, no separate 3-day notice to quit is required before filing. (Iowa Code § 562A.27(2); § 648.3(1))
How much notice is required to evict for a lease violation in Iowa?
7 days' written notice specifying the breach; the lease terminates if the breach is not remedied within 7 days. A repeat of substantially the same breach within 6 months allows termination on 7 days' notice without a right to cure. For a clear and present danger to others, a single 3-day notice of termination and notice to quit. (Iowa Code § 562A.27(1); § 562A.27A)
How much notice is needed to end a month-to-month lease in Iowa?
Either party: written notice at least 30 days before the periodic rental date specified in the notice. Week-to-week: at least 10 days. Terms longer than month-to-month: at least 30 days before the end of the term. (Iowa Code § 562A.34)
Can a landlord enter without notice in Iowa?
At least 24 hours' notice and entry only at reasonable times, except in an emergency or where impracticable. Landlord may enter without consent in an emergency, and may not abuse access to harass. Tenant may not unreasonably withhold consent for inspections, repairs, services, or showings. (Iowa Code § 562A.19)
Is there a limit on late fees in Iowa?
Rent of $700/month or less: late fee may not exceed $12 per day or $60 per month. Rent over $700/month: not more than $20 per day or $100 per month. (Iowa Code § 562A.9(4))
Can a tenant repair and deduct from rent in Iowa?
Limited. (1) If the landlord deliberately or negligently fails to supply heat, running water, hot water, or essential services, the tenant may give written notice and procure them and deduct the actual, reasonable cost from rent. (2) In a nonpayment eviction it is a defense, and the cost is deducted from rent claimed, if the tenant gave at least 7 days' notice before the rent due date of intent to fix a lease/§ 562A.15 violation, the reasonable cost was no more than one month's rent, and the repair was made in good faith before the landlord's termination notice. (Iowa Code § 562A.23(1); § 562A.27(4))
Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Iowa?
No general right to withhold rent. In a nonpayment possession action, the tenant may counterclaim for amounts owed by the landlord; the court may order rent paid into court and decides the net amount due. (Iowa Code § 562A.24)
Can a landlord retaliate against a tenant for complaining in Iowa?
Landlord may not raise rent, decrease services, or bring or threaten an action for possession after the tenant complains to a code-enforcement agency about a health/safety violation, complains to the landlord about a § 562A.15 violation, or organizes or joins a tenants' union. A good-faith complaint within one year before the alleged retaliation creates a presumption of retaliation. Tenant may recover actual damages and attorney fees and has a defense to eviction. (Iowa Code § 562A.36)
Is there rent control or a limit on rent increases in Iowa?
Preempted: cities and counties may not adopt or enforce any limit on the amount of rent for private residential or commercial property (except property in which the local government has an interest). No statewide cap. (Iowa Code § 364.3(9) (cities); § 331.304(10) (counties))
Can a landlord change the locks or shut off utilities in Iowa?
If the landlord unlawfully removes or excludes the tenant or willfully interrupts electric, gas, water or other essential services, the tenant may recover possession (or terminate the lease) and recover actual damages, punitive damages up to twice the monthly rent, and reasonable attorney fees. (Iowa Code § 562A.26)
What is the small claims court limit in Iowa for a deposit dispute?
$6,500 (exclusive of interest and costs), for actions commenced on or after July 1, 2018. (Iowa Code § 631.1(1)(b))
How do you remove a squatter in Iowa?
No special affidavit or police-removal statute. The owner uses the summary forcible entry and detainer (FED) action, which lies where the defendant entered the owner's prior actual possession 'by force, intimidation, fraud, or stealth' and keeps possession. For that ground, the 3-day written notice to quit otherwise required before filing is not required. Thirty days' peaceable possession with the plaintiff's knowledge after the cause of action accrues bars the FED action, so owners should act promptly. (Iowa Code §648.1(1); §648.3(1); §648.18)
What can a landlord do with a tenant's abandoned property in Iowa?
No statute — the residential landlord-tenant law (ch. 562A) has no procedure for belongings left in an apartment or house; §562A.29 covers only re-renting an abandoned unit, and the FED judgment/execution sections (§648.22) are silent on personal property. Iowa Code ch. 555B sets a removal, storage, sheriff-notice, and court abandonment process only for abandoned mobile homes and the owner's personal property in or around them. (Iowa Code §562A.29; §648.22; ch. 555B (mobile homes))
Is there a limit on rental application fees in Iowa?
No statute — no cap, refund rule, or reusable-screening-report rule was found in Iowa Code ch. 562A. (Iowa Code ch. 562A (section list checked))
What rental fees are banned or limited in Iowa?
No general junk-fee or fee-disclosure statute. The only statutory fee limit found is the late-fee cap (rent up to $700/month: $12/day, $60/month max; rent over $700: $20/day, $100/month max). Landlords may not charge fees or penalties for a tenant's summoning police or emergency assistance. (Iowa Code §562A.9(4); §562A.27B(1))
Can a domestic violence survivor break a lease in Iowa?
No statute — Iowa Code ch. 562A contains no right for domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking survivors to end a lease early. Related protection: a landlord may not limit, penalize, fine, or evict a tenant for summoning police or emergency help for a victim of abuse or crime or in an emergency (tenant may recover a civil penalty of one month's rent, among other remedies). (Iowa Code §562A.27B; ch. 562A (checked))
When can a tenant break a lease without penalty in Iowa?
No statute found in Iowa Code ch. 562A giving early-termination rights for medical reasons, seniors moving to care, military service (beyond federal SCRA), or tenant death. (Iowa Code ch. 562A (checked))
Can an eviction record be sealed or removed in Iowa?
No statute — the 2026 Iowa Code's forcible entry and detainer chapter (ch. 648) contains no sealing or record-removal provision. Bills to seal dismissed/defendant-won cases (HF 548, 2023) and to allow later sealing of nonpayment cases (HSB 261, 2025 study bill) were not found in the enacted Code. (Iowa Code ch. 648 (section list checked))
Can a landlord refuse Section 8 vouchers in Iowa?
No. Iowa has no statewide source-of-income protection, and since Jan. 1, 2023 cities and counties may not adopt or enforce ordinances barring landlords from refusing to rent to someone because they use a federal Housing Choice Voucher (existing local ordinances became void). (Iowa Code §364.3(16) (cities); §331.304(13) (counties))
Do tenants have a right to a free lawyer in eviction cases in Iowa?
No statewide right to counsel in eviction cases was found in Iowa Code ch. 648 or ch. 562A. (Iowa Code ch. 648; ch. 562A (checked))
What does a Iowa notice to pay rent or quit have to include?
Written notice of nonpayment stating the landlord's intention to terminate the rental agreement if rent is not paid within 3 days; if unpaid, the landlord may terminate and file without a separate 3-day notice to quit. Service must be by one of: delivery acknowledged in a signed, dated receipt by a resident 18 or older; personal service under Iowa R. Civ. P. 1.305; or posting on the primary entrance door (with the posting date on the notice) plus mailing by both regular and certified mail to the unit or last known address. Mailed notice is deemed complete 4 days after mailing. (Iowa Code §562A.27(2); §562A.29A; §648.3(1))
What does a Iowa notice to end a month-to-month tenancy have to include?
Written notice given at least 30 days before the periodic rental date specified in the notice (month-to-month); at least 10 days before the termination date for week-to-week; at least 30 days before the end of the term for longer periodic tenancies. A landlord's termination notice must be served by acknowledged delivery to a resident 18+, personal service, or door posting plus regular and certified mail; mail service is complete 4 days after mailing. (Iowa Code §562A.34(1)-(3); §562A.29A)
What must a Iowa security deposit itemization include?
Within 30 days after the tenancy ends and the landlord receives the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, the landlord must return the deposit or give a written statement showing the specific reason for withholding any part; if withheld for restoring the unit, the statement must specify the nature of the damages. Allowed deductions: unpaid rent or other funds due under the lease; restoring the unit to its move-in condition less ordinary wear and tear; and costs of recovering possession from a tenant who did not act in good faith. A landlord who misses the 30-day statement forfeits the right to withhold. If no address is given within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlord. Bad-faith retention: actual damages plus punitive damages up to twice the monthly rent. (Iowa Code §562A.12(3), (4), (7))
How long does a landlord have to sue for unpaid rent in Iowa?
Claims for unpaid rent: 5 years (Iowa Code § 614.1(5)(b)). Other claims on a written contract, including written-lease damages other than rent: 10 years (§ 614.1(5)(a)). Unwritten (oral) contracts and injury to property: 5 years (§ 614.1(4)). (Iowa Code § 614.1(4), (5))
Can a landlord accept rent during an eviction in Iowa?
Yes, as a rule. Under Iowa's URLTA, if the landlord accepts performance from the tenant that varies from the rental agreement or the landlord's rules, the landlord waives the right to terminate for that breach. The landlord may instead grant a temporary waiver for a set number of days by giving the tenant notice of the breach and the temporary waiver (served under § 562A.8) before the tenant relies on it. No Iowa statute specifically addresses partial rent accepted after a 3-day notice or during an eviction. (Iowa Code § 562A.30)
Can you be evicted in the winter in Iowa?
No statute bars winter evictions. Utility rule: a gas or electric utility may not disconnect service from November 1 through April 1 to a residence where a resident 'head of household' has been certified by the local agency as eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or Weatherization Assistance Program. Disconnection notices must tell customers about this protection. Separately, utilities may not disconnect a residence where a head of household is a deployed service member until 90 days after deployment ends, if informed. (Iowa Code § 476.20(2), (3)(b)-(c))
Can a landlord give notice by text or email in Iowa?
Termination notices and notices to quit (3-day rent notices, 7-day cure notices, clear-and-present-danger notices, month-to-month termination notices, and § 648.3 notices to quit) must be served by: (1) delivery acknowledged in a signed, dated receipt by a resident 18 or older (which counts as notice to all tenants); (2) personal service under Iowa R. Civ. P. 1.305; or (3) posting on the unit's main entrance door AND mailing by both regular and certified mail (§ 562A.29A). Other notices under the chapter may also be given by hand delivery, regular-plus-certified mail, door posting alone, or any method that results in actual receipt (§ 562A.8). Mailed notice is deemed complete 4 days after mailing. (Iowa Code §§ 562A.8, 562A.29A)
How much notice is required for a rent increase in Iowa?
Each tenant must be notified in writing of any rent increase at least 30 days before it takes effect, and the increase may not take effect before the original lease (or any renewal or extension) expires. This applies to all tenancies. A month-to-month tenancy may be ended by either side on 30 days' written notice before the periodic rental date (§ 562A.34(2)). There is no longer notice period for large increases. (Iowa Code § 562A.13(5); § 562A.34)
Does a landlord have to give a copy of the lease in Iowa?
No Iowa statute requiring the landlord to give the tenant a signed copy of the lease was found. Required disclosures at or before the start of the tenancy: (1) in writing, the name and address of the property manager and of an owner or the owner's agent for legal papers, notices and demands, kept current and binding on successors (§ 562A.13(1)-(3)); (2) before signing, a full explanation of utility rates, charges and services unless the tenant pays the utility directly (§ 562A.13(4)); (3) in writing, whether the property is listed in the federal EPA CERCLIS (Superfund) system (§ 562A.13(6)). (Iowa Code § 562A.13)
Does a landlord have to fix mold in Iowa?
No statute — Iowa has no mold-specific landlord-tenant law. Mold is handled under the landlord's duties to comply with building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety and to make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to keep the premises fit and habitable. (Iowa Code § 562A.15(1)(a)(1), (2))
Who pays for pest control and bed bugs in Iowa?
No statute — Iowa does not specifically assign pest or bed-bug treatment or require a bed-bug disclosure. Infestations fall under the landlord's fit-and-habitable and code-compliance duties; tenants must keep their unit clean and dispose of garbage and waste in a clean and safe manner. (Iowa Code §§ 562A.15(1)(a)(1), (2), (5); 562A.17(2), (3))
Does a landlord have to provide heat in Iowa?
Yes. The landlord must supply running water, reasonable amounts of hot water at all times, and reasonable heat — unless the building is not required by law to be so equipped or the heat/hot water is generated by equipment under the tenant's exclusive control with a direct utility connection. Heating facilities supplied by the landlord must be kept in good and safe working order. No numeric minimum temperature is set by state statute. (Iowa Code § 562A.15(1)(a)(4), (6))
Does a landlord have to provide air conditioning in Iowa?
No duty to install air conditioning and no maximum indoor temperature. Air-conditioning facilities supplied or required to be supplied by the landlord must be maintained in good and safe working order. (Iowa Code § 562A.15(1)(a)(4))
What can a landlord deduct from a deposit for cleaning or damage in Iowa?
Not defined by statute. The landlord may withhold from the deposit amounts reasonably necessary to cover unpaid rent or other funds due under the lease, to restore the unit to its condition at the start of the tenancy (ordinary wear and tear excepted), and to recover expenses of regaining possession from a tenant who did not leave in good faith after a noncompliance notice. The landlord bears the burden of proving the reason for any withholding. (Iowa Code § 562A.12(3))
Can a landlord put cameras in or around a rental in Iowa?
No landlord-specific statute. Knowingly viewing, photographing, or filming another person in full or partial nudity, without consent, where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, for sexual gratification, is invasion of privacy (an aggravated misdemeanor). Intercepting oral communications is unlawful unless the person is a party or one party consents. The landlord must give at least 24 hours' notice before entry (except emergencies or impracticability), enter at reasonable times, and not use access to harass. (Iowa Code §§ 709.21; 808B.2; 562A.19)
Can a landlord limit guests or roommates in Iowa?
No statute — the lease and reasonable landlord rules govern guests, occupancy, and roommates. Tenants may not knowingly permit anyone to damage the premises and must not disturb neighbors' peaceful enjoyment. (Iowa Code § 562A.17(6), (7))
Can a landlord deny a service or emotional support animal in Iowa?
Iowa law lets a person with a disability request to keep an assistance or service animal as a reasonable accommodation; the landlord must respond within a reasonable time and in writing. If the disability or need is not readily apparent, the landlord may request supporting information, which may be a licensed provider's written finding stating, among other things, whether a provider-patient relationship (in person or telehealth) has existed for at least 30 days, the expiration date, license number, and whether a separate fee was paid for the finding. Online registrations, ID cards, patches, or certificates are not sufficient. Landlords may not request diagnosis, severity, or medical records; may require proof of licensure and vaccination; and may deny for undue hardship, fundamental alteration, direct threat, or substantial property damage. Tenants are liable for damage caused by the animal. Intentionally misrepresenting an animal as a service animal is a simple misdemeanor. (Iowa Code §§ 216.8B; 216.8C; 216C.11(3))
Official resources for Iowa
- Iowa Judicial Branch — Small Claims (self-help)
- Iowa Code ch. 562A — Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.