Indiana Rent Stabilization: What Renters Need to Know

Renters in Indiana may have questions about rent stabilization—especially when facing increasing rents or concerns about long-term housing affordability. Unlike some states or cities that offer rent stabilization or rent control, Indiana law has its own unique rules. This guide explains how these rules affect tenants, covering rent increases, relevant laws, official forms, and your options for help.

Does Indiana Have Rent Stabilization or Rent Control?

Indiana does not have statewide or local rent stabilization or rent control laws. This means landlords in Indiana generally have the right to increase rent by any amount, as long as they follow notice requirements and don’t violate other housing laws.

• There are no limits on how much a landlord can raise rent.
• Cities or towns in Indiana are not allowed to create their own rent control regulations due to state law.
• However, landlords must still give renters proper written notice before any rent increase (see below).

Indiana Code § 32-31-1-17 specifically prohibits local rent control ordinances.^[1]

How Are Rent Increases Handled in Indiana?

Even though rent stabilization doesn’t apply, landlords can’t raise your rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless the lease says otherwise. For month-to-month leases, state law requires written notice of any change, including rent increases. The default notice period is the same as your payment period—usually 30 days for month-to-month rentals.

• Fixed-term leases: No rent increases until the lease ends, unless stated in your lease agreement.
• Month-to-month leases: At least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take effect.

If you have a written lease, always check what it says about rent changes and notice requirements.

Indiana Tenant and Landlord Rights: Key State Laws

Tenant and landlord relationships in Indiana are primarily governed by Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31, also known as the Indiana Landlord-Tenant Act.^[2] This law sets the standards for rental agreements, notices, repairs, deposits, and more.

• No statewide rent control or rent stabilization exists.
• Landlords must keep the unit in a livable condition and follow basic habitability rules.
• Tenants have a right to written notice for rent increases or termination of tenancy.
• There are protections against discrimination; see the Indiana Civil Rights Commission for more.

Which Authority Handles Rental Disputes?

There is no statewide housing tribunal in Indiana. Most rental disputes are handled in local Indiana small claims or county courts (sometimes called superior or circuit courts). Tenants can file cases related to rent, eviction, deposits, or other issues in these courts.^[3]

Official Forms for Indiana Renters

Indiana does not have a single statewide agency with official tenant complaint forms. However, there are some key forms renters should know about:

• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy:
  This is a written letter you provide to your landlord if you wish to end a month-to-month lease, or that your landlord provides you if they are ending the lease. There is no state-mandated template, but you can learn more from the Indiana Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Service Center.
  Example: If your landlord wants to raise your rent and you do not agree, you can provide a 30-day written notice to end the tenancy.
• Small Claims Complaint (Form SC-1):
  Used to file a formal dispute—such as for returning a security deposit or illegal rent withholding—in local small claims court. The local court will provide this form; see Self-Service Legal Center for more info.

Action Steps for Renters Facing a Rent Increase

• Review your lease or rental agreement for any terms about rent changes or notice requirements.
• If your landlord notifies you of a rent increase, check that you have received written notice with enough time (typically 30 days for month-to-month rentals).
• If you have questions or believe your rights are being violated, you can seek assistance through the resources below or your local court.

FAQ: Indiana Rent Stabilization and Tenant Rights

1. Does Indiana have any cities with rent control or rent stabilization?
   No, Indiana state law prevents cities or counties from passing rent control or rent stabilization ordinances.
2. What notice does my landlord have to give before increasing rent?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice for rent increases on month-to-month leases, unless your lease says otherwise.
3. Can my landlord raise rent during my fixed-term lease?
   No, unless your lease specifically allows for mid-lease rent increases.
4. Where can I file a complaint if I believe my rights as a tenant are violated?
   Most tenant disputes should be filed in your local Indiana small claims or county court.
5. Are there any exceptions for specialized housing, like Section 8 or public housing?
   Some federal or subsidized housing has its own rent rules—check with your local housing authority or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for details.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Indiana does not have rent stabilization or rent control laws.
• Landlords can set rent but must give proper notice for increases, especially with month-to-month leases.
• Tenant protections are mainly found in the Indiana Landlord-Tenant Act and enforced through local courts.

Always review your lease terms and know your rights regarding rent changes so you can make informed decisions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Service Center – Official forms, court information, and rental dispute guidance.
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission – Fair Housing Resources – Housing discrimination complaints and education.
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – Renter support and housing program information.
• HUD Indiana Renters Resources – Information and guidance for subsidized and public housing tenants.
• Find Your Local Indiana Court – File disputes or get legal help at your county’s small claims court.

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1. See Indiana Code § 32-31-1-17: State Preemption of Local Rent Control
2. See Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31: Landlord and Tenant Statute
3. Indiana Landlord-Tenant Dispute Resources

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