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Landlord / Tenant

security deposit—residential

Most residential landlords require tenants to pay a security deposit to cover any repairs needed when the tenant moves out, or to cover the tenant’s failure to pay the last month's rent.

Laws vary from state to state, but many states have statutes that provide the maximum amount of security deposit a landlord may require for a residential lease and the costs for which the landlord may use the security deposit (cleaning, repairs, unpaid rent) following termination of the lease.

These laws also provide a specific deadline (often 30-60 days) for the landlord to return the tenant’s security deposit following termination of the lease—after deducting any amount properly withheld, as allowed by law.

In Iowa, the law regarding security deposits for residential leases is governed by Iowa Code § 562A.12. Landlords can require a security deposit from tenants, which is typically used to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning, and unpaid rent after the tenant moves out. The maximum amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit is two months' rent. After the termination of the lease, the landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or provide a written statement showing the specific reason for any deductions. If the landlord fails to provide the written statement and any refund due within 30 days, the tenant may recover damages in court, including a penalty of up to two times the amount of the security deposit withheld.

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Landlord / Tenant

security deposit—residential

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Iowa State Code

Iowa State Code

Landlord / Tenant

security deposit—residential

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