Iowa Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

Renters in Iowa who need accessibility features, such as ramps, grab bars, or wider doorways, often wonder if their landlord can raise the rent after these upgrades. Understanding your rights regarding rent increases after accessibility modifications is important for any Iowa tenant, especially if you or someone in your household has a disability.

Understanding Accessibility Upgrades in Iowa Rentals

Accessibility upgrades are modifications made to make a rental property easier or safer to use for people with disabilities. These changes could include installing ramps, accessible showers, lowering counters, or adding visual or auditory alarms.

Under federal law, specifically the Fair Housing Act, and Iowa law, it is illegal for landlords to deny reasonable accommodation requests from tenants with disabilities. This means landlords generally must allow tenants to make reasonable modifications, but the laws concerning rent increases differ.

Can Landlords Legally Raise Rent After Accessibility Upgrades?

In Iowa, the rules around rent increases after accessibility upgrades depend on who pays for the modifications and the original rental agreement terms. According to the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code §562A.28):

• Landlords are not required to pay for accessibility modifications unless they agree to do so.
• If the tenant pays for the modification, the landlord generally cannot increase rent because of the upgrade.
• If the landlord finances the upgrade, they may negotiate a rent increase, but only after following proper notice rules under Iowa law.

Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase can take effect, as required by Iowa Code §562A.13.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Under Iowa law, rent increases must always be provided in writing, and tenants must be given at least 30 days’ notice before the new amount starts. This notice should specify:

• The amount of the rent increase
• The effective date
• The reason for the increase (if related to an upgrade, it must be clear in the notice)

Relevant Forms for Iowa Renters

• Fair Housing Complaint Form (No number): If you believe your rent was unfairly raised due to a disability-related upgrade, you can file a complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission. Use the online Housing Complaint Form.
  Example: A renter who pays for a grab-bar installation and then receives a rent hike as a result may use this form to report possible disability discrimination.
• Notice of Rent Increase (Sample Letter): Landlords issue this to inform tenants of any rent increases. There's no standardized Iowa government form, but written notice is required. For a template and more info, visit the Iowa Legal Aid Notice Guide.

Which Iowa Board Handles Rental Disputes?

Iowa does not have a statewide residential tenancy tribunal. Disputes are usually handled in Iowa District Courts. For discrimination concerns, use the Iowa Civil Rights Commission.

FAQ: Rent Increases, Accessibility, and Your Rights in Iowa

1. Can my landlord raise rent after I pay for accessibility modifications?
   Usually, no. If you pay for the changes, Iowa law does not allow the landlord to increase your rent solely because of the upgrade.
2. Must accessibility modifications be returned to their original state?
   Landlords can require you to restore the property to its original condition when you move out, but this should be agreed upon beforehand.
3. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase in Iowa?
   At least 30 days’ written notice is required before any rent increase takes effect.
4. What can I do if I think my rent was unfairly raised due to a disability?
   You can file a fair housing complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission or consult Iowa Legal Aid for further advice.
5. Where can I find more information or file a rental dispute in Iowa?
   Contact your local Iowa District Court or the Iowa Civil Rights Commission for discrimination issues.

Quick Summary

• Tenants who pay for accessibility upgrades are generally protected from related rent increases.
• Landlords must give at least 30 days’ notice for all rent increases.
• If you suspect discrimination or unfair rent hikes, file a complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Iowa Civil Rights Commission: For discrimination complaints and fair housing guidance.
• Iowa District Courts: File rental disputes if needed.
• Iowa Legal Aid: Free legal guidance for renters on accessibility and tenancy issues.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Federal fair housing complaints and resources.

---

1. Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code Chapter 562A)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Iowa Civil Rights Commission: How to File a Complaint
4. Iowa Legal Aid: When Can Your Rent Be Raised?

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations