Iowa Landlord Disclosures: What Renters Must Get Before Move-In

Renting a new apartment or house in Iowa comes with important legal protections. Before you move in, Iowa law requires landlords to provide certain disclosures and information. Understanding what your landlord must share helps you avoid disputes and protects your rights as a renter.

What Must Iowa Landlords Disclose Before Move-In?

Iowa's residential landlord-tenant laws set specific rules for what landlords must disclose to tenants before they move in. These rules are designed to ensure renters receive all vital information about the rental property and their future obligations. Here’s what landlords must provide:

1. Name and Address of Property Owner or Manager

• This required disclosure ensures renters know exactly who is legally responsible for property management, repairs, and any notices.
• Your landlord must give you the name and address of either the property owner or their authorized agent (like a property manager).
• This information should be provided in writing before you move in. It is usually included in the lease agreement.

2. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for Pre-1978 Rentals)

• If the property was built before 1978, federal law requires your landlord to give you a lead-based paint disclosure
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA-747-K-99-001)
• How it works: Before signing a lease, you must receive the disclosure form detailing any known lead hazards and the EPA Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home pamphlet. For example, if you’re moving into a 1960s-built Des Moines apartment, your landlord should give you these forms before finalizing the lease.

3. Security Deposit Information

• Your landlord must state the terms about how your security deposit will be held and under what conditions it may be withheld at the end of the lease.
• There’s no specific required state form, but this must be in the lease agreement or a separate written statement.

4. Identification of Utility Arrangements

• The rental agreement should clarify which utilities are included in your rent and which are your responsibility.
• Knowing this up front helps you budget and avoid surprises about charges for gas, electricity, water, or trash service.

Additional Required Disclosures (Situational)

• Shared Meter Utilities: If your utility meter isn’t separate from other units (a “shared meter”), the landlord must explain how the utility bill is split.
• Floodplain Disclosure: While Iowa does not have a statewide statute on mandatory floodplain disclosures, local ordinances may require this if the property is in a designated flood zone. Ask your landlord.

When and How Should Renters Receive These Disclosures?

All disclosures should be received before you sign your lease or move in. They can be included in your rental agreement or as separate written documents. Never sign a lease without reading these required disclosures thoroughly.

Your right to disclosures is protected under Iowa Code Chapter 562A – Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law. If you did not receive required disclosures, you may have certain remedies under state law.

Official Agencies and Where to Get Help

• Form Reference: The main form affecting most renters is the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form. This must be signed by you and your landlord for properties built before 1978. You can access it through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
• Key Tribunal: Iowa’s District Court: Small Claims Division handles residential landlord-tenant disputes such as eviction, security deposit claims, or failure to provide required disclosures.

What Can I Do If I Didn’t Get Required Disclosures?

• Contact your landlord (in writing) requesting missing documents.
• Keep written records of all communications with your landlord.
• If non-compliance continues, you may file a complaint in Iowa Small Claims Court.
• You may also contact the Iowa Attorney General Consumer Protection Division for help.

FAQs About Iowa Landlord Disclosures

1. What happens if my landlord doesn’t provide the lead-based paint form?
   If your rental was built before 1978, failure to provide this form is a violation of federal law. You can refuse to sign the lease until you have received the correct documents, or file a complaint with the EPA or your local court.
2. Do disclosures have to be in writing, or can they be provided verbally?
   All required disclosures must be provided in writing before move-in. Verbal statements do not satisfy legal requirements.
3. Are landlords required to tell me how my security deposit will be handled?
   Yes, Iowa law requires landlords to explain in writing the terms for collecting, holding, and returning your security deposit.
4. What is the role of the Small Claims Court in Iowa for tenants?
   Iowa’s Small Claims Court resolves disputes about leases, deposits, and landlord disclosures. Tenants can file there if disclosures are not provided.
5. Can I break my lease if disclosures were not given?
   In some cases, lack of required disclosures can be grounds for legal remedies, including lease termination. Seek legal guidance or contact the court for specific advice.

Key Takeaways for Iowa Renters

• Always receive key disclosures—in writing—before you sign a lease or move-in.
• The main items include owner/manager details, security deposit rules, and any lead-based paint disclosures as applicable.
• If something’s missing, act fast to communicate with your landlord or seek help from Iowa court or housing authorities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Iowa District Court – Small Claims Division: For landlord-tenant disputes and disclosure issues.
• Iowa Attorney General Consumer Protection: To file a complaint against your landlord.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Iowa Resources: Tenant rights and local fair housing contacts.
• Iowa Legal Aid: Free legal help for eligible renters.

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1. Iowa Code Chapter 562A – Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Lead Laws and Tenant Disclosures
3. Iowa District Court: Small Claims Division
4. Iowa Attorney General Consumer Protection

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