Iowa Standard Residential Lease Agreement Template

Maximum Amount: Two months’ rent (§ 562A.12(1)).

• Receipt Required? No, Iowa state law does not require landlords to provide a formal written receipt for security deposits. Landlords must hold funds in a federally insured escrow account (§ 562A.12(2)).

Return Period: Within 30 days after the tenancy has terminated and the landlord has received the tenant’s mailing address in writing (§ 562A.12(3)(a)).

• Itemized List Required? Yes, if the landlord withholds any portion of the deposit, they must provide a written, itemized explanation within the 30-day return period (§ 562A.12(3)(a).

Environmental Hazard (“Superfund” Site) Notice: If a rental property is listed on the federal environmental registry, the landlord must disclose this in writing before the tenant signs the lease Iowa Code § 562A.13(6)). Landlords can confirm whether their property is on a “Superfund” site by searching for the address in the EPA SEMS Search Portal or the Iowa DNR Contaminated Sites Tracker.

Landlord’s Identification: On or before the start of the tenancy, the landlord must provide the written name and address of the property manager and the owner authorized to receive notices and legal service (Iowa Code § 562A.13(1)).

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For residential structures constructed before January 1, 1978, the landlord must disclose any known lead-based paint hazards and provide an EPA-approved information pamphlet prior to lease execution (40 CFR § 745.113).

Shared Utility Billing Explanation: If the tenant does not pay the utility company directly, the landlord must fully explain all utility rates, charges, and services in writing before the tenant signs the lease (Iowa Code § 562A.13(4)).