Indiana’s Outlook on Rent Control Laws for Renters

If you rent in Indiana, understanding how rent control laws work—and what could change—can help you plan, budget, and know your rights. While Indiana currently does not have rent control, the laws around rent increases and tenant protections are important for renters facing uncertainty about the future. This article explains Indiana's current laws, prospects for rent control legislation, relevant forms, and where to get trusted help.

What Is Rent Control, and Where Does Indiana Stand?

Rent control limits how much landlords can increase rent. It is designed to protect renters from sharply rising housing costs. While many states and cities in the U.S. have some form of rent control or rent stabilization, Indiana law currently prohibits local governments from enacting rent control. This is set forth in the Indiana Code § 32-31-1-20 - Prohibition on Rent Control Ordinances.¹

Indiana’s Current Law on Rent Increases

Indiana landlords are free to raise rent by any amount, for any reason, as long as:

• The lease is not fixed-term or otherwise limiting increases
• The landlord provides proper notice—usually at least 30 days before the change²

No Indiana city or town may pass its own rent control rules unless the state law changes.

Can Indiana Pass Rent Control in the Future?

Currently, the Indiana legislature holds the power to overturn the prohibition on rent control. For rent control laws to take effect, the following would need to happen:

• State lawmakers introduce a bill to allow (or require) rent control in Indiana
• The bill must pass in the Indiana General Assembly and be signed by the Governor
• Local governments could then adopt their own rent control ordinances, or a statewide system may be created

No such bill is currently active as of 2024. Indiana continues to support a free market rental system.

How Indiana Law Protects Renters (Even Without Rent Control)

Even without rent control, Indiana law provides basic protections for renters:

• Landlords must give proper notice before raising rent or ending month-to-month tenancies (Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority)
• Renters cannot be evicted without following legal process
• Landlords must meet minimum habitability standards in rental units

Disputes about rent increases or evictions may go before an Indiana small claims court. There is no separate residential tenancy board—rental disputes are typically handled in local court.

Key Indiana Renter Forms and Resources

• Notice to Vacate (30-Day Notice)
  Used by either renters or landlords to terminate a month-to-month lease. If your landlord raises your rent and you wish to move, you must give written 30-day notice. Indiana does not have a state-standard form, but you can use Indiana Courts’ notice template.
• Complaint for Return of Security Deposit (Form: Small Claims Complaint)
  If your landlord withholds your deposit after moving out, file a small claims complaint with your county court. The Indiana Small Claims Complaint form is used. Example: If you move out after a rent increase and your deposit is not returned within 45 days, complete the form and submit it to the court.
• Response to Eviction Notice
  If you receive an eviction notice you believe is unlawful (e.g., retaliation for complaining about maintenance), you can respond in writing and prepare to present your case at a court hearing. Use your county's court forms as needed—see Indiana eviction resources.

Where Are Rental Disputes Handled?

Indiana does not have a residential tenancy tribunal or board. Rental disputes are resolved in Indiana Small Claims Courts and Local Superior Courts.³

FAQ: Indiana Rent Control and Renter Rights

1. Does Indiana have any rent control laws?
   Indiana law currently prohibits any form of rent control.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   Landlords must typically give at least 30 days’ written notice for rent increases on month-to-month leases.
3. What should I do if I receive a rent increase I can’t afford?
   You may give your landlord a 30-day notice to vacate if you choose to move, or try to negotiate a smaller increase.
4. Where do I go if I have a rental dispute?
   Rental disputes in Indiana are handled by the local small claims or superior court in your county.
5. Can local Indiana cities make their own rent control laws?
   No. As of now, Indiana state law prevents cities and towns from passing rent control ordinances.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Indiana does not currently allow rent control, and landlords can raise rent with proper notice.
• Renter protections exist through required notices, court process for evictions, and maintenance laws.
• Any change in rent control would require action by state lawmakers—the situation is not expected to change soon, but stay informed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) – Info on rental programs, tenant rights resources
• Indiana Courts: Find Your Local Court – For small claims disputes and court forms
• Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division – File complaints about deceptive rental or landlord practices
• Indiana Legal Services – Free legal assistance for eligible low-income renters

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1. Indiana Code §32-31-1-20 - Rent Control Prohibition
2. Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority – Tenant Rights
3. Indiana Courts – Small Claims Information

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