Do student renters have the same legal protections as non-students in Indiana?

Yes, Indiana’s landlord-tenant laws apply to students and non-students equally unless you live in campus-operated dorms.

How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?

Indiana law requires landlords to return your deposit or give an itemized list of deductions within 45 days after move-out and receipt of your forwarding address.

Can my landlord evict me without notice if I’m late on rent?

No. Your landlord must provide written notice and follow the legal eviction process through the courts.

What should I do if my apartment needs urgent repairs?

Notify your landlord in writing and, if needed, contact your local health department or the Indiana Attorney General’s office for assistance.

Where can I file a complaint against my landlord?

You can contact the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or file in Small Claims Court for qualifying disputes.

Indiana Student Housing Rights: What College Renters Need to Know

Special Housing Types & Situations Indiana published June 21, 2025

Renting as a college student comes with unique challenges, from understanding your lease to protecting your security deposit. In Indiana, college renters are protected by state law, whether living off-campus apartments or student housing not directly operated by your college. Knowing your rights helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you're treated fairly during your rental experience.

Understanding Your Rights as a Student Renter in Indiana

All Indiana renters, including students, are covered by the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations^[1]. This law sets out what landlords and tenants are responsible for—and how you can seek help when issues arise.

What Does the Law Cover for Student Housing?

Security deposits: Your landlord must return your deposit within 45 days of moving out, minus any deductions that must be itemized in writing.
Repairs and habitability: Your unit must have heat, water, and be safe to live in. Landlords are required to make necessary repairs.
Eviction: Your landlord cannot force you out without following legal steps. You must receive written notice for nonpayment, lease violations, or other lawful reasons before being taken to court.
Privacy: While Indiana law does not specify exact notice required to enter, it’s best to expect at least 24 hours’ notice, except in emergencies.
Move-in/move-out inspections: Insist on written documentation and photographs to protect yourself from incorrect deposit deductions.

Special Issues for College Renters

Living off-campus as a student often means sharing space with roommates or signing leases with co-signers. Some student rentals may have joint lease agreements, meaning all tenants are equally responsible for rent and damages. The protections found in Indiana’s landlord-tenant law still apply, even if your landlord is a private owner, a property management company, or a university-affiliated entity (unless you live in dorm-style housing, which has separate rules).

Official Bodies Handling Tenant Issues in Indiana

The Indiana Civil Courts – Small Claims Division handle rental disputes and eviction cases.
For health and safety concerns, your city or county’s local health department may assist with habitability issues.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

Notice of Intent to Vacate
- When/how to use: Give this written notice to your landlord before you move out (usually 30 days before, unless your lease says otherwise). Always deliver it by mail or email as specified in your lease, and keep a copy.
- Form reference: Indiana does not provide a state-issued template, but check your lease for required forms or use local resources.
Security Deposit Return Demand
- When/how to use: If your landlord fails to return your security deposit within 45 days of moving out, you can send a written demand letter requesting your deposit.
- Example: You moved out, cleaned thoroughly, returned your keys, and sent your forwarding address to your landlord. If 45 days pass with no deposit, send the demand letter with copies of cleaning/inspection photos.
- Download sample letter and see official guidance at the Indiana Attorney General - Tenant Consumer Protection page.
Small Claims Court Filing Form (CC-84)
- When/how to use: If your dispute isn’t resolved, you can file in Small Claims court for deposit return or damages.
- Example: Your landlord ignores your deposit demand. Complete the Small Claims Filing Packet and file it with your county court clerk. Bring all documentation to your hearing.

Remember to always provide your forwarding address to your landlord in writing to make sure your deposit can be returned promptly.

Common Student Renter Problems (and Solutions)

Roommate conflicts: If one tenant breaks the lease, all tenants may be at risk if you’re on a joint lease. Discuss solutions with your landlord and roommates sooner rather than later.
Non-renewal of lease: Landlords are generally allowed to not renew leases once they expire, but must follow proper procedure and cannot retaliate against you for exercising your rights.
Disputes about damages: Document the unit thoroughly at move-in and move-out with photos, and request all communication in writing.

Action Steps If You Have a Landlord Dispute

Step 1: Document all issues in writing, and keep records of communication.
Step 2: Notify your landlord by written letter (email if allowed in your lease). Clearly state the problem and what resolution you seek.
Step 3: If no resolution, seek help from your local health department (for habitability) or file a complaint/advice request with the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
Step 4: Consider Small Claims Court if your financial loss is below the Indiana limit (usually $8,000). Prepare your forms, evidence, and attend your hearing if your case is accepted.

Tip: Always ask for repairs in writing and keep copies. This will help protect your rights if you need to escalate the issue.

FAQ: Common Indiana Student Housing Questions

Do student renters have the same legal protections as non-students in Indiana?
Yes, Indiana’s landlord-tenant laws apply equally to student and non-student renters unless you live in campus-operated dorms.
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 45 days of moving out, after you provide your forwarding address.
Can my landlord evict me without notice if I’m late on rent?
No. Your landlord must give you a written notice and follow the court process before an eviction.
What can I do if my apartment needs important repairs?
Notify your landlord in writing. If repairs aren’t completed in a reasonable time, contact your local health department or file a complaint with the state.
Where do I file a complaint or take action if my landlord isn’t following the law?
You may contact the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or file a case in Small Claims Court for eligible disputes.

Key Takeaways for Indiana College Renters

Indiana law protects all renters, including students, in off-campus housing situations.
Be proactive: document everything, express issues in writing, and know how to use official forms if disputes arise.
If you need support, reach out to Indiana’s official agencies or student advocacy services to guide your next steps.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division – File a Complaint
Indiana Small Claims Courts: Find Your County
Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – affordable housing and rental support
Local Health Departments in Indiana – report habitability or safety concerns
Many universities offer free legal aid clinics for students—check your college’s student services website.