Indiana Lease Renewal Rights and Deadlines for Renters

Renewing your lease in Indiana can be straightforward if you know your rights, timelines, and responsibilities. As a renter, it’s important to understand your lease terms, what notice you need to give or expect, and how to respond to renewal offers or changes in rent. Staying informed helps you avoid problems like sudden rent increases or unintentional lease termination.

Understanding Lease Renewals in Indiana

In Indiana, most rental agreements are either fixed-term leases (like 12 months) or month-to-month rentals. Your lease should state how renewal works and if special notice is required. There is no statewide rent control, but you still have rights under the Indiana Code for Landlord-Tenant Relations.^[1]

Lease Expiration and Renewal Options

• Fixed-term leases: Usually expire on a set date. Some automatically convert to month-to-month unless you or your landlord give notice.
• Month-to-month rentals: Renew automatically each month unless ended by you or your landlord with advance notice.

Check your lease agreement for any clauses on renewal or required notification periods.

Notice Requirements and Renewal Deadlines

Notifying your landlord, or receiving notice about renewal, is crucial. Indiana law does not set a specific renewal notice period, but leases often require 30 days' notice to terminate or renew. If your lease is silent, a 30-day written notice is considered standard for month-to-month agreements.^[1]

• If you wish to stay: Notify your landlord in writing before the lease ends, as described in your lease.
• If your landlord wants you to move: They must serve a written notice, typically 30 days before the lease ends on month-to-month agreements.
• If no notice is given: Some leases automatically renew, others expire and require vacating. Confirm with your landlord in advance.

Responding to Lease Changes or Rent Increases

Landlords can propose rent increases or new terms at renewal, but must notify you in writing—usually at least 30 days before the new lease starts. If you disagree, you can negotiate, decline, or choose to move out before the lease ends.

Required Forms and Official Notices

Indiana does not have a standard government-issued lease renewal form, but there are official ways to provide written notice. Always get confirmation and keep copies for your records.

• Notice of Lease Termination (for tenants): No official form number. Used to let your landlord know you do not wish to renew or are ending a month-to-month agreement. Sample templates are offered by Indiana Legal Help, but written notice with your signature is valid. Indiana Legal Help Sample Notice
• Notice to Vacate (from landlord): No state-issued form. Landlords must notify tenants of non-renewal or rent changes in writing, providing at least 30 days' notice for month-to-month leases. For fixed-term leases, check your lease for details. Information can be found on the City of Indianapolis Government Website.

For legal issues or disputes, the Indiana Courts (Eviction & Housing Court) handle residential tenancy matters. Find your local court using the official Indiana Court Portal.

Action Steps for Indiana Renters

• Read your lease for specific renewal or termination rules
• Send written notice of your intentions at least 30 days before the lease ends
• Keep copies of all communications with your landlord
• Contact Indiana Legal Help if you have concerns about your rights or deadlines

FAQ: Indiana Lease Renewal and Renters Rights

1. How much notice do I have to give if I want to move out?
   For most month-to-month rentals in Indiana, renters must give at least 30 days’ written notice unless your lease sets a different time frame.
2. Can my landlord increase rent when renewing my lease?
   Yes, landlords may increase rent at renewal, but must give advance written notice (typically 30 days) and cannot do so mid-lease unless the lease allows it.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t offer a new lease?
   If your landlord gives no written notice, your fixed-term lease can end and you may need to move out. If you remain, the lease may convert to month-to-month; always check your agreement or get clarification in writing.
4. Where can I get an official lease renewal or termination form?
   Indiana does not provide a statewide lease renewal form. Use a simple written notice stating your intentions, date, and signature. Refer to Indiana Legal Help for sample templates.
5. Who handles lease and eviction disputes in Indiana?
   The Indiana courts, including local Small Claims or Housing courts. Start by finding your county’s court via the Indiana Court Portal.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Check your lease for renewal or notice requirements—30 days is a safe benchmark
• All changes or renewals should be documented in writing
• The Indiana courts resolve residential tenancy disputes

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Legal Help – Free legal advice, sample forms, and guidance on tenant rights
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – Renter Rights
• Indiana Court Portal – Find your local housing or small claims court
• City of Indianapolis Tenant Rights

---

1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 - Landlord-Tenant Relations

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations