All states, including Iowa, are mandated by Federal law to include certain uniform requirements in all rental and lease agreements. For instance, all agreements should include:
- The personal and identifying information of both the tenant and landlord,
- A description of the premises being leased,
- Pet and smoking allowances or prohibitions,
- Certain health and safety disclosures,
- Security deposit specifics, including the amount of the deposit and conditions for returning it,
- Rent details, such as when and how it should be paid.
In addition, to ensure your lease agreement is legally binding, make sure you familiarize yourself with the specific Iowa laws and requirements below.
1. Iowa Residential Lease Agreement Sample
The sample lease agreement below describes a contract between “Landlord” Kevin Lee and “Tenant” Olivia Graham. She agrees to rent a duplex in Columbia for $1,000 per month for a fixed term. The tenant agrees to pay for all utilities and services for the Premises. This is a good example of what provisions a simple lease agreement might contain, and how one should look in its final form.
2. Iowa Landlord and Tenant Laws
Iowa imposes specific and distinct requirements for landlords and tenants when executing a lease or rental agreement. For example, Iowa statutes provide for the following:
Security Deposit
- Iowa landlords are allowed to request up to two (2) months rent as a security deposit. (§§ 562A.12(1))
- Security deposits shall also not be commingled with a landlord’s personal funds. (§§ 562A.12(2))
Landlord Right of Entry
- Iowa landlords are required to give tenants twenty-four (24) hour notice before entering the premises and must only enter the premises during “reasonable hours.” (§§ 562A.19(3))
- In emergency situations, landlords are allowed to enter the property without first giving notice. (§§ 562A.19(1))