Indiana Short-Term Rental Rules for Airbnb Sublets

Many Indiana renters consider listing their apartments on Airbnb or similar short-term rental platforms. Before you sublet or host, it's important to understand Indiana's short-term rental laws and what steps you must take to avoid problems with your landlord or lease.

Understanding Short-Term Rentals and Airbnb Sublets

Short-term rentals (STRs) are rental arrangements usually 30 days or less, including bookings on platforms like Airbnb. In Indiana, these arrangements are considered sublets. Before you list your rental or allow guests, learn what Indiana law says about STRs and how this affects your lease and legal rights.

Indiana Law on Subletting and Short-Term Rentals

Indiana does not have a single statewide law that specifically regulates Airbnb or STRs. However, your lease agreement and state landlord-tenant law play a major role. Indiana law allows landlords and tenants to agree on most terms freely, including whether subletting or Airbnb is allowed. Most leases require written permission from the landlord before subletting, which includes renting on Airbnb.

• If your lease prohibits subletting, listing your place on Airbnb could result in eviction.
• If your lease is silent or allows it with permission, you must still get written approval from your landlord.
• Some cities or counties in Indiana may have their own rules about short-term rentals, such as registration or taxes. Always check your local government website for details.

Key Legislation: The Indiana Code on Landlord-Tenant Law

The primary law covering landlord-tenant relationships in Indiana is the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Law^[1]. While it does not mention Airbnb or short-term rentals directly, it covers subletting, tenant obligations, and eviction procedures.

Typical Lease Clauses and What They Mean

Most leases in Indiana include a section about subleasing. Examples:

• "Tenant shall not assign, sublet, or transfer any part of the premises without the written consent of the landlord."
• "Short-term or vacation rentals, including but not limited to Airbnb and similar platforms, are prohibited."

Read your lease carefully and contact your landlord if you are unsure.

What Happens if You Sublet Without Permission?

If you rent out your apartment on Airbnb without proper consent, your landlord can serve you with an eviction notice. The eviction process is handled by the Indiana small claims or circuit courts. Indiana’s main tenancy law – Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – gives landlords the right to evict for lease violations, including unauthorized sublets.

Required Forms for Subletting in Indiana

Indiana does not have a mandatory statewide sublet approval form, but you may use a standard Written Consent to Sublet form, or check with your landlord for their preferred paperwork. A sample template may be found with your local housing authority; always use an official or landlord-provided form if possible.

• Form Name: Written Consent to Sublet
• When to Use: Before posting your rental on Airbnb, obtain this written consent from your landlord. This protects you from eviction for unauthorized subletting.
• Where to Find: Check with your property management, landlord, or visit Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – Legal Housing Forms.

Action Steps If You Want to Sublet

• Read your lease for any subletting/short-term rental language.
• If allowed, request written permission from your landlord (keep a copy for your records).
• If required, submit a Written Consent to Sublet form.
• Check your city or county for additional STR requirements.
• Never list your unit on Airbnb or similar platforms without fully completing these steps.

Who Handles Housing Disputes in Indiana?

There is no special residential tenancy board in Indiana. Tenant-landlord matters, including those involving short-term rentals, are handled by your county’s Small Claims or Circuit Court. You can check your court’s website for filing instructions or tenant resources.

FAQ: Indiana Airbnb Sublets & Shared Housing

1. Can I sublet my Indiana apartment on Airbnb without telling my landlord?
   No, most leases require landlord approval for subletting, including Airbnb. Subletting without permission can lead to eviction under Indiana law.
2. What happens if my lease says nothing about subletting?
   You must still request written permission. If your lease is silent, always communicate with your landlord before renting on Airbnb to avoid violating your agreement.
3. Are there statewide restrictions on Airbnb rentals in Indiana?
   There is no statewide ban, but local city or county rules may apply. Always check local ordinances in addition to your lease.
4. What should I do if my landlord denies my sublet request?
   You must respect your landlord's decision. Listing your place without approval may be grounds for eviction under Indiana's landlord-tenant laws.
5. Where can I get help if I receive a notice to vacate for subletting?
   Contact a tenant advocacy program, local legal aid, or your county court for information on your rights and how to respond.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• You need written landlord permission to list your apartment on Airbnb or similar short-term rental platforms.
• Always check your lease and local city/county ordinances for extra requirements.
• Unauthorized subletting in Indiana can result in eviction. Protect yourself by following the correct procedures.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – Renter & Tenant Resources
• Indiana Courts: Find Your Local Small Claims or Circuit Court
• Indiana Legal Services, Inc. – Housing Help

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Law (2024)
2. Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority
3. Indiana Court System

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