Iowa Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Iowa Code §562A.12 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and move-out.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, repair of damages beyond normal wear and tear to premises or furnishings. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration from the natural, normal, and expected use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Iowa Code §562A.12(7).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $6,500
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 30 days
- Must provide written statement of damages and amounts
What Your Iowa Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Iowa's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Iowa Code §562A.12 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Iowa law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration from the natural, normal, and expected use of the premises...
Print-Ready PDF
Professional formatting with penalty warning. Print it, sign it, send it certified mail. Ready in under 3 minutes.
Free preview. $9.99 for the clean, print-ready PDF.
Iowa Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Iowa?
Under Iowa Code §562A.12, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and move-out. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Iowa landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Iowa, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, repair of damages beyond normal wear and tear to premises or furnishings. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Iowa?
In Iowa: Deterioration from the natural, normal, and expected use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Iowa landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Iowa Code §562A.12(7). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa small claims court handles cases up to $6,500. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Iowa?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Iowa-specific dispute letter citing Iowa Code §562A.12 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.