Writing a Demand Letter to Your Landlord in Indiana

As a renter in Indiana, knowing how to write a demand letter can be a powerful way to address unresolved issues with your landlord, from maintenance requests and security deposits to rental disputes. This process helps clarify your position, creates a record of your efforts, and is often required before taking further legal steps under Indiana law.

What Is a Demand Letter?

A demand letter is a formal, written request you send to your landlord to communicate a problem and request action. It might ask for a repair, payment of a security deposit, or for your landlord to stop certain practices. Sending a demand letter is an important first step before pursuing other remedies, including complaints or legal action.

When Should You Send a Demand Letter in Indiana?

Send a demand letter if your landlord does not respond to:

• Maintenance or repair requests for issues affecting your health or safety
• Refund of your security deposit after you move out
• Unlawful rent increases or improper fees
• Other potential lease or state law violations

In Indiana, the demand letter also serves as proof that you gave your landlord notice and an opportunity to fix the issue, which is often required by the Indiana Code Title 32 – Landlord-Tenant Relations^[1].

How to Write an Effective Demand Letter

Keep your letter clear, concise, and respectful. Be specific about your request and include all necessary details:

• Date the letter and include your name, address, and your landlord’s address
• Describe the issue (e.g., leaking roof, non-returned security deposit)
• Cite your lease or Indiana law on landlord duties if possible
• State the remedy you are requesting (e.g., "repair the leak within 14 days" or "return my $800 security deposit")
• Give a deadline for your landlord’s response or action (usually 10 to 14 days)
• Sign and keep a copy for your records

Relevant Forms

• Security Deposit Demand Letter – Sample Template
  While Indiana does not have a mandated form, several local legal aid groups and official sources offer templates. For security deposits, use the Sample Demand Letter for Return of Security Deposit from the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority. Use it within 45 days after vacating the unit if your deposit is not returned.
  Practical Example: You moved out on June 1 and did not get your deposit. On July 10, write and send this letter to your landlord. You may include a copy of your move-out inspection if you have one.

Next Steps if Your Landlord Does Not Respond

If your landlord does not reply or resolve the issue within your requested deadline, you may consider filing a complaint or starting a case at the appropriate court.

• Indiana Court Self-Help Forms for Renters – This collection includes forms for raising issues like habitability or deposit non-return through small claims court.
• If the dispute affects your health or safety and your landlord fails to act, you may request court permission to make repairs and deduct from rent. See Indiana Renter Assistance for more.

Remember, always document your issue, your demand letter, and any responses from your landlord.

Official Boards and Tribunals in Indiana

Indiana does not have a dedicated landlord–tenant tribunal. Disputes are generally resolved in your local Indiana Small Claims or Circuit Courts. More about landlord and tenant protections is found in the Indiana Code Title 32: Landlord-Tenant Relations.^[2]

FAQ: Indiana Demand Letters for Renters

1. Is sending a demand letter required before suing my landlord in Indiana?
   It is often recommended and, in some cases, required to show you gave your landlord notice and a chance to fix the problem, especially for damages or repairs.
2. How long should I give my landlord to respond to a demand letter?
   Generally, 10–14 days is reasonable, unless a law or your lease specifies a different timeline.
3. What if my landlord ignores the demand letter?
   If there is no response, you can pursue your claim in small claims court and use your letter as evidence of your good faith effort.
4. Can demand letters be sent by email in Indiana?
   Email is acceptable, but for best proof, send by certified mail with return receipt requested.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Demand letters help document your problem and your efforts to resolve it
• Use clear language, give a specific deadline, and keep copies for your records
• If no action is taken, Indiana courts can resolve most landlord–tenant disputes

Act promptly and use official resources to protect your rights as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority: State-level support and sample forms
• Indiana Legal Help: Free legal resources, forms, and advice for renters
• Find Your Local Indiana Court: For filing complaints or small claims cases
• Indiana Code Title 32: Current landlord–tenant legislation

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1. See Indiana Code § 32-31-8: Landlord Obligations.
2. Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority - official housing and tenant resource.

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