Security Deposit Laws in Iowa
Iowa caps security deposits at two months' rent, requires return or a written statement of deductions within 30 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant gives a mailing address, and requires 24 hours' notice before entry.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Iowa at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 2 months' rent
- Deposit return deadline
- 30 days
- 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address
- Interest on deposits
- Not required by state law
- Some cities have their own interest rules
- Notice before landlord entry
- 24 hours
- 24 hours' notice
The rules in Iowa
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Iowa?
Iowa limits security deposits to 2 months' rent.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Iowa?
Iowa rule: 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Iowa?
No. Iowa state law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Some cities have their own rules.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Iowa?
Iowa rule: 24 hours' notice.
Where do the Iowa rules for residential leases come from?
They come from Iowa Code 562A.12 and Iowa Code 562A.19. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Iowa compares
Iowa is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 30-day return deadline is the same as the most common deadline of 30 days; 15 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.