State Law Guide · Updated January 2026
Iowa Security Deposit Laws
Under Iowa Code § 562A.12, Iowa landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of a tenant moving out. Landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits face penalties of up to Up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld.
Quick Answer
In Iowa, landlords have 30 days to return your security deposit after you move out and provide a forwarding address. The maximum deposit is 2 months' rent. If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit, you can sue in Small Claims Court (up to $6,500) and may recover Up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld under Iowa Code § 562A.12. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of deductions.
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What Iowa Law Requires
Return Deadline
Landlords have exactly 30 days to return your deposit after you move out. If they make deductions, they must provide an itemized statement explaining each charge with documentation.
Penalties for Violations
Landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits face Up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld. You can file in small claims court for amounts up to $6,500without needing an attorney.
Common Deductions Landlords Make
Federal guidelines from HUD and the IRS establish "useful life" standards that limit what landlords can charge. Many common deductions are partially or fully invalid under these guidelines.
Carpet Replacement
Typical: $400-1,4005-year useful life per HUD MAP Guide Appendix 5C. Charges may be reduced or invalid based on how long you lived there.
Interior Paint
Typical: $200-7003-year useful life per HUD Handbook 4350.1. Charges may be reduced or invalid based on how long you lived there.
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HUD/IRS Citations
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$19 · Avg Iowa deposit: $950 · Potential 50x return
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an Iowa landlord have to return my deposit?
Iowa landlords have 30 days to return your deposit with an itemized statement. Wrongful withholding can result in 2x damages.
What is the deposit limit in Iowa?
Iowa caps deposits at 2 months' rent. This is strictly enforced—excess amounts are recoverable.
Does my Iowa landlord have to pay interest?
If your landlord holds your deposit for 5 or more years, they must pay interest at a rate set by the state treasurer.
Official Resources
- Iowa Attorney General Consumer Protection(Government)
- Iowa Legal Aid(Legal Aid)
Compare Other States
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Based on Iowa Code § 562A.12 · HUD Handbook 4350.1 · IRS Publication 527