Short summaries of the rules that shape Iowa leases, notices, and deposit papers on LeaseGen.io. Last reviewed 2026-08-15. Not legal advice.
Security deposits
Cap
2× rent
Return clock
30 days after the tenancy ends
A security deposit generally may not exceed two months’ rent (Iowa Code § 562A.12). Unused deposit plus an itemized list is generally due within 30 days. Interest may be due if the deposit is held five years or more.
Either party may end a month-to-month tenancy with at least 30 days’ written notice (Iowa Code § 562A.34).
Except in an emergency, the landlord must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering (Iowa Code § 562A.19).
A Iowa rent increase should be in writing. Many landlords use at least the same notice they would use to end a month-to-month tenancy. Either party may end a month-to-month tenancy with at least 30 days’ written notice (Iowa Code § 562A.34). The lease may require more. Local rent-control rules can cap the amount even when the notice period is met.