Indiana Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

If you’re renting a property in Indiana for a short-term vacation stay, understanding your legal protections is important. Whether you’re using a rental platform or signing a temporary lease, Indiana law offers specific rights and responsibilities for both landlords and renters in these unique arrangements.

What Counts as a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Indiana?

Short-term vacation rentals in Indiana typically mean renting a home or apartment for less than 30 days at a time. These could be properties listed on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or similar services, or a private rental agreement with a landlord for a brief stay.

• Short-term leases—less than 30 days—may not be covered by the same rules as long-term leases.
• These rental types may fall under local (city or county) rules in addition to Indiana state law.

It’s important to clarify with the host or landlord how long your stay will be and which set of rules apply before finalizing your booking.

Indiana Laws Protecting Short-Term Renters

Indiana’s main residential tenant protections are found in the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations. However, for rental agreements lasting less than 30 days, some provisions—such as notice requirements for eviction—may not apply. Local city codes may add extra protections, so check with your municipality.

• Landlords cannot discriminate against renters based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, or other protected classes (Indiana Fair Housing).
• Property owners must comply with Indiana health and safety laws—even for short stays.
• Tenants must comply with all rules in the rental agreement or “house rules.”

Eviction and Ending Your Stay Early

In Indiana, a landlord may remove a short-term guest at the end of their booking or for a major violation of house rules. Unlike long-term tenants, vacation renters generally are not entitled to a formal eviction process unless the stay extends beyond 30 days or the rental agreement specifies otherwise.

• Always get your rental agreement in writing—this protects both you and the property owner.
• If you are asked to leave early for reasons you disagree with, contact the property owner first. If needed, reach out to local city housing officials for clarification on your rights.

Security Deposits and Damage Claims

Some short-term rentals in Indiana may require a security deposit. Indiana law requires landlords to return a security deposit within 45 days of the rental ending, minus any charges for unpaid rent or actual damages (Indiana Security Deposit Law).

• Take dated photos when you check in and out to avoid disputes.
• Always request a written itemization of any deductions, as required by state law.

Official Tribunal and Complaint Process

Indiana does not have a statewide residential tenancy board or housing tribunal. Disputes over short-term rentals are usually handled in Indiana Small Claims Court (part of county-level Circuit or Superior Courts). For discrimination or health and safety complaints, you may also contact the Indiana Civil Rights Commission or local housing authorities.

Relevant Official Forms for Renters

• Small Claims Complaint Form (State Form 45499): Used if you need to sue a landlord for return of your deposit or other damages related to a short-term rental.
  Example: If your rental host refuses to return your deposit without explanation, fill out this form and file it at your local county court.
  Official Small Claims Complaint Form
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission Housing Discrimination Form: Used to report if you believe you were denied a short-term rental due to unlawful discrimination.
  Example: If you are refused a booking because of your race or disability, this form allows you to file a complaint.
  Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

What to Do If There’s a Problem

• Contact your host first to resolve any issues.
• Document all communications (texts, emails) and save photos.
• If you’re unable to resolve the dispute, consider using the official forms above to file a complaint or claim.
• Keep all receipts and agreements related to your rental.

FAQs for Indiana Short-Term Vacation Renters

1. Are short-term rental guests in Indiana considered tenants under the law?
   For stays under 30 days, you may not have full tenant rights, but you are still protected by contract and basic housing safety laws.
2. What can I do if my vacation rental host refuses to return my security deposit?
   First, request a written list of deductions. If they refuse, you can file a Small Claims Complaint in your local court using the official form.
3. Can the property owner remove me before my booking ends?
   Only if you violate house rules or local laws. Otherwise, you are entitled to stay for the agreed period, but formal eviction rules may not apply to short stays.
4. Where do I report discrimination in short-term rentals?
   File a complaint with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission using the official housing discrimination form.
5. Do local ordinances affect my rental rights?
   Yes, cities can set additional rules for short-term rentals. Always check local city housing websites for updated regulations.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Vacation Renters

• Short-term renters in Indiana may not have full tenant protections but do have important rights under state law and their rental agreements.
• Document everything and use official forms if you need to resolve disputes or reclaim your deposit.
• Contact your city or the Indiana Civil Rights Commission for help with discrimination or safety issues.

The rules can be complex and may vary by city, so carefully review your lease or booking terms and reach out to official resources for help if issues arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations: Full text of Indiana's main landlord-tenant law
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission: File discrimination complaints or get advice
• Indiana Small Claims Court: Steps and forms for resolving rental disputes
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority: General renter assistance programs
• Contact your city or county housing department for additional local rules or enforcement help

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
2. Housing Discrimination Complaint Form – Indiana Civil Rights Commission
3. Small Claims Complaint Form
4. Indiana Fair Housing Overview

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