Indiana Lease Renewal Refusal: What Renters Need to Know

If you're renting a home or apartment in Indiana and your lease is ending, it's natural to wonder: can your landlord decide not to renew your lease? Understanding your rights and what landlords are legally allowed to do is crucial for planning your next move within Indiana rental law.

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew a Lease in Indiana?

In Indiana, landlords generally can refuse to renew a lease once the lease term ends, as long as the refusal is not for illegal reasons such as discrimination or retaliation. Lease renewal is not automatic—landlords are not obligated to renew a rental agreement unless the lease says otherwise. Instead, your lease will either become a month-to-month arrangement (if both parties agree and rent is paid/accepted), or your tenancy will end at the conclusion of the notice period.

Required Notice Periods for Non-Renewal

Indiana law requires both landlords and tenants to give proper written notice when ending a periodic tenancy:

• Yearly lease: At least 3 months' written notice prior to lease end.
• Month-to-month lease: At least 30 days' written notice prior to termination.

Learn more about proper notice requirements on the Indiana Code: IC 32-31-1-3.¹

Reasons Landlords Cannot Refuse Lease Renewal

While landlords can generally refuse to renew without giving a reason, there are important exceptions. Under federal and Indiana fair housing laws, landlords cannot refuse to renew a lease for reasons such as:

• Race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin
• Retaliation for reporting code violations or exercising legal rights
• Any other protected classes recognized under local or state law

Official Forms and Practical Examples

While Indiana law does not specify a mandatory statewide form for lease non-renewal, written notice is required. Many landlords and property managers use their own templates, but your written notice (or your landlord’s) should include the date, address, and signature. There is no official state form number.

• Notice to Vacate — Your landlord may serve you a written "notice to vacate" if they do not plan to renew. Send or request such notices in writing for your records. Example: You receive a dated, signed letter stating your tenancy will not renew after the lease expires.

For general written notice guidelines, visit the Indiana Code: Notice to Tenant section.²

What to Do If You Receive a Non-Renewal Notice

Receiving notice of non-renewal can feel stressful, but following the law and planning ahead helps protect your interests:

• Confirm the written notice has the proper amount of notice (3 months or 30 days, depending on lease type)
• Ask your landlord (in writing) for the reason, if unclear, especially if you suspect discrimination or retaliation
• Start looking for new housing options if your landlord will not renew the lease
• Prepare for move-out and understand your security deposit rights

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Indiana?

Indiana does not have a specialized tenant-landlord tribunal, but rental disputes—such as improper non-renewal or illegal eviction—are handled through your local County Small Claims Court or Superior Court. You can search for your local court on the Indiana Courts website.⁴

Relevant Indiana Legislation

• Indiana Code Title 32: Property – Landlord-Tenant Provisions — Includes sections on notice and renewals.
• Indiana Fair Housing Law — Discrimination protection regarding lease renewals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease without a reason in Indiana?
   Yes, unless the refusal is based on illegal discrimination or retaliation.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give for non-renewal in Indiana?
   3 months for year-to-year leases, 30 days for month-to-month; must be in writing.
3. Is there an official Indiana form for lease non-renewal?
   No, but written notice is required and must include key details. Sample templates are often provided by property managers.
4. What can I do if I think the refusal to renew was unfair?
   Contact the Indiana Civil Rights Commission or consider small claims court if you believe laws were violated.
5. Does my lease convert to month-to-month automatically in Indiana?
   Only if both you and your landlord agree or act as if the agreement continues (e.g., rent is paid and accepted).

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords can choose not to renew most leases in Indiana, except for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons.
• Written notice—three months for yearly leases, thirty days for month-to-month—is required.
• If you believe your rights were violated, agencies like the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and local courts provide support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Civil Rights Commission – File a complaint for discrimination or retaliation
• Indiana Courts – Find your local small claims court for rental disputes
• Indiana Legal Services – Free legal help for qualifying renters
• Indiana Landlord-Tenant Laws – Full text of relevant legislation

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1. Indiana Code 32-31-1-3: Notice Requirements
2. Indiana Code 32-31-1-9: Written Notice to Tenant
3. Indiana Civil Rights Commission
4. Indiana Courts: Find a Court

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