An Iowa landlord may withhold only amounts reasonably necessary for the reasons listed in Iowa Code Section 562A.12. The landlord also bears the burden of proving the reason for withholding.
Allowed withholding categories
Iowa permits withholding for:
- unpaid rent or other sums due under the rental agreement
- restoration of the dwelling unit to its condition at the start of the tenancy, ordinary wear and tear excepted
- certain expenses incurred in acquiring possession from a tenant who did not act in good faith in failing to surrender and vacate
Written statement
If the landlord keeps any money, the landlord must provide a written statement showing the specific reason for withholding. If the withholding is for restoration or damages, the written statement must specify the nature of the damages.
Ordinary wear and tear
Ordinary wear and tear is not the same as tenant-caused damage. Keep move-in and move-out proof so the dispute is not based only on memory.
Timing still matters
The written statement is due within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of your mailing address or delivery instructions. If the landlord misses that required statement, Iowa law says the landlord forfeits all rights to withhold any portion of the deposit.
Sources used for this guide
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Built to help Iowa renters give address instructions, ask for the written statement, challenge unsupported deductions, and escalate in the right order.
Get the Iowa Recovery SystemRelated pages
- Iowa security deposit demand letter
- Iowa security deposit deadline
- Iowa security deposit statute
- Normal wear and tear in Iowa
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.