Filing a Complaint Against a Landlord in Indiana: A Renter's Guide

If you're renting in Indiana and facing unresolved issues with your landlord—such as ignored maintenance requests, security deposit disputes, or possible discrimination—knowing your options is essential. Indiana renters have rights under state law, and there are official channels to address your concerns. This guide explains how to file a complaint against your landlord, what forms to use, and where to get help, all with a focus on the Indiana rental landscape.

Understanding Your Rights as an Indiana Renter

Indiana’s rental laws offer protections for tenants while outlining clear responsibilities for landlords. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations sets forth your rights regarding habitability, repairs, and proper notice for eviction.

• Landlords must provide safe, clean, and habitable living conditions.
• You have the right to a written notice before eviction (except in emergencies).
• You can request necessary repairs, and landlords should respond in a reasonable time.

When Should You File a Complaint?

Consider filing a complaint if:

• Maintenance requests are ignored after written notice.
• Your security deposit is unlawfully withheld.
• There's suspected housing discrimination.
• Rent is raised or eviction is threatened in retaliation.

Indiana’s Primary Agencies Handling Complaints

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) – general resources and complaint intake.
• Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division handles certain landlord-tenant disputes, especially those involving unlawful business practices.
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) addresses discrimination in housing.

How to File a Complaint: Step-by-Step

Take the following steps to address your problem effectively as a renter in Indiana:

• Document your issue: Keep records of all requests, correspondence, and photos of problems.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Send a letter detailing the issue and your requested resolution. Save a copy for your files.
• If unresolved, choose the appropriate agency or tribunal based on your situation (see below).
• Complete the required complaint form and submit supporting documentation.

Relevant Official Complaint Forms in Indiana

• Indiana Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form (Official PDF)
  When to Use: If your landlord is violating consumer laws (e.g., refusing refund of a security deposit, engaging in deceptive business practices).
  Example: After numerous requests for your security deposit, your landlord refuses to return it without reason. File this form to the Consumer Protection Division.
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (Official PDF)
  When to Use: If you believe you have been discriminated against based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status.
  Example: You were denied a rental apartment after disclosing a disability. File this form directly with the ICRC.

Filing with Indiana Small Claims Court

If your complaint involves financial issues such as withheld security deposits, you may also file a lawsuit in Indiana Small Claims Court. See the official Indiana Judiciary Small Claims information for forms and procedures.

What Happens After You File?

The agency or tribunal will investigate your complaint, potentially contact your landlord, and inform you of next steps. Keep copies of everything.

FAQ: Indiana Renter Complaints

1. What is the first step before filing a formal complaint against my landlord?
   Always notify your landlord in writing about the issue and give them a reasonable chance to resolve it. Documentation is key.
2. Can I file a complaint if my landlord refuses to make needed repairs?
   Yes. After providing written notice to your landlord and giving them time to act, you may file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office or, if appropriate, pursue a claim in Small Claims Court.
3. Where do I report housing discrimination in Indiana?
   The Indiana Civil Rights Commission handles complaints related to discrimination based on protected characteristics such as race, disability, or family status.
4. How do I get my security deposit back if my landlord won’t return it?
   Attempt resolution directly with your landlord first. If unsuccessful, complete the Consumer Complaint Form for the Attorney General, or file a Small Claims Court case to recover owed amounts.
5. Which agency oversees general rental disputes in Indiana?
   Indiana does not have a specialized landlord-tenant board. Most disputes are handled by local small claims courts or relevant state agencies (Attorney General or Civil Rights Commission).

Conclusion: Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Document every issue and communication with your landlord.
• Use the right complaint forms and include supporting evidence.
• Understand your rights under Indiana’s tenant laws and know which agency or court to contact for your specific situation.

Act promptly if your rental rights are not being met. Support is available to help guide you.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) – General housing and renter resources
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission – File discrimination complaints
• Indiana Attorney General Consumer Complaint Portal – Filing landlord/tenant consumer complaints
• Indiana Small Claims Court Guide – Procedures and forms for monetary claims

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1. Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority
2. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord Tenant Relations
3. Indiana Attorney General – Consumer Complaints
4. Indiana Civil Rights Commission – File a Complaint
5. Indiana Judiciary – Small Claims

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