Requesting Essential Repairs Before Moving In: Indiana Renters’ Guide

Preparing to move into a new rental in Indiana? Ensuring that the unit is safe and habitable before you move in is your right. Indiana law provides clear steps for tenants to request repairs and protect themselves during this process. This guide breaks down what to check, how to formally demand repairs, and what legal protections exist for Indiana renters.

Understanding Indiana's Repair Requirements for Rentals

Landlords in Indiana are required under state law to provide clean, safe, and habitable rental units. This includes working plumbing, heating, structural safety, and meeting all requirements found in Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31, Chapter 8 outlining landlord repair responsibilities.^[1]

• Repairs must address hazards affecting health or safety.
• Non-essential cosmetic issues (like minor paint flaws) are typically not required by law before move-in.

Moving In: Inspection and Documenting Issues

Before moving in, make sure to inspect the rental and note any damage or necessary repairs. While Indiana law does not require a written move-in inspection form statewide, documenting the unit’s condition is critical for future disputes.

• Take date-stamped photos or videos of every room and any issue you find.
• Note all repairs needed, especially those that raise health or safety risks (mold, leaks, broken locks, etc.).

Is There an Official Move-In Inspection Form?

Indiana does not provide a mandated rental inspection form. However, the Indiana Attorney General’s Office recommends using a checklist. This helps both you and your landlord be clear on the unit’s initial condition. You can download their sample checklist here (see page 8).

How to Demand Repairs Before Move-In in Indiana

Once you’ve identified issues, you’ll need to formally notify your landlord in writing. Indiana law requires written notice for repair requests to be enforceable.

Step-by-Step: Making an Effective Repair Request

• List each repair needed, with photos or documentation if possible.
• Send a dated, signed letter to your landlord or property manager. Clearly state that you expect these repairs to be made before moving in.
• Keep a copy of all communication for your records.
• If the landlord does not respond, you may have additional legal options before signing any lease. Never move in or pay rent until the issues are resolved or documented in writing.

Is There an Official Repair Request Form?

There is no state-issued mandatory repair request form in Indiana, but the Attorney General’s guide provides a sample letter format (see page 12). This informal letter can be adapted to any situation where you’re demanding repairs before you take possession of the property.

• Form Name: Sample Tenant Repair Request Letter
• How It’s Used: To notify the landlord in writing of the exact repairs needed, before move-in.
• View sample repair request letter (page 12)

What If Repairs Are Not Made?

If your landlord does not address your repair requests prior to your move-in date, you have several options. Indiana renters may:

• Refuse to sign the lease or pay rent until agreed repairs are completed.
• Negotiate to have repairs written into the lease agreement as a condition of move-in.
• If urgent issues exist and the landlord refuses to fix them, consider contacting your local health department or the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

If you feel your rights are violated after move-in, Indiana’s main venue for rental disputes is the local court system (small claims court or superior court), as there is no statewide housing tribunal. Find more on dispute options from Indiana Courts’ Tenant-Landlord Self-Service Center.

Your Legal Protections: Indiana Rental Laws

Key protections are outlined in Indiana Code IC 32-31-8 (Landlord Obligations) and IC 32-31-7 (Tenant Obligations). Disputes may be resolved in local courts. There is no state-level Landlord and Tenant Board, but courts enforce these requirements.

FAQ: Demanding Repairs Before Move-In in Indiana

1. What repairs does my landlord have to make before I move in? Landlords must fix hazards affecting health, safety, and basic habitability like plumbing, heating, and security before you move in.
2. Can I withhold my security deposit or first month’s rent if repairs are not made? Do not withhold payment unless you receive legal advice; instead, do not sign the lease or pay rent until issues are addressed or formally documented.
3. What if my landlord refuses to make essential repairs? You may walk away from the rental before signing the lease, negotiate to include repairs as a move-in condition, or contact the Indiana Attorney General’s office if a health or safety violation exists.
4. Is a written repair request mandatory? Yes. Written repair requests are necessary for legal protection and to initiate any future legal process in Indiana.
5. Where can I get help with rental repair disputes in Indiana? The Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division and your local court are the main resources for renters.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Inspect your unit and document all issues before moving in.
• Submit all repair requests in writing and keep copies.
• Indiana law protects your right to a habitable home—get help from state resources if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division: Housing & Tenant Rights – Report violations or request advice on tenant rights and repairs.
• Indiana Courts Tenant-Landlord Self-Service Center – Find information on legal forms, processes, and how to bring claims in small claims court.
• Renter Rights & Responsibilities Handbook (PDF) – Includes sample repair checklists and form letters.
• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Full details on rental laws.

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31, Chapter 8 – Landlord Obligations
2. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31, Chapter 7 – Tenant Obligations
3. Indiana Attorney General's Renter Rights & Responsibilities Guide (PDF)
4. Indiana Courts Tenant-Landlord Self-Service Center

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