Iowa Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Iowa's landlord-tenant law provides clear guidelines for rental relationships with specific requirements for security deposits, property maintenance, and lease procedures.
Security Deposit
Limit: 2 months' rent for security deposits.
Return Period: 30 days after termination of tenancy. Must provide itemized statement of damages. If landlord fails to comply, tenant may recover deposit amount plus actual damages.
Rent Increases
30 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.
Entry Notice
24 hours notice required for entry, except in emergencies.
Key Statutes
- Iowa Code §562A.12 - Security Deposits
- Iowa Code §562A.15 - Landlord Obligations
- Iowa Code §562A.19 - Right of Entry
- Iowa Code §562A.27 - Eviction Process
Common Issues
- Not returning deposits within 30 days
- Failure to provide itemized deductions
- Entering without 24-hour notice
- Not maintaining habitability standards
- Improper eviction procedures