How much a landlord can charge for a security deposit in Iowa, the deadline to return it after move-out, and the statute that controls — verified June 7, 2026.
2 months of rent (landlord shall not demand/receive a security deposit in excess of two months' rent). Two-month cap; 30-day return/statement rule; forfeiture for failing to provide statement. Bad-faith retention: punitive damages up to 2x monthly rent plus actual damages.
30 days from termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address; written statement of reasons required for any withholding (failure to provide within 30 days forfeits all right to withhold). Read Iowa Code § 562A.12 for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.
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2 months of rent (landlord shall not demand/receive a security deposit in excess of two months' rent). Two-month cap; 30-day return/statement rule; forfeiture for failing to provide statement. Bad-faith retention: punitive damages up to 2x monthly rent plus actual damages. This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (Iowa Code § 562A.12) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.
30 days from termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address; written statement of reasons required for any withholding (failure to provide within 30 days forfeits all right to withhold). See Iowa Code § 562A.12 for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.
Iowa Code § 562A.12. The official text is published by the state at https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/562A.12.pdf.
No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.
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