Key Takeaways
Staying informed about Indiana’s landlord-tenant laws helps prevent disputes and ensure compliance.
Clear lease agreements, required disclosures, and proper handling of security deposits create stronger landlord-tenant relationships.
Partnering with a Lafayette-based property management company can simplify compliance, protect your investment, and support long-term rental success.
Understanding Indiana’s landlord-tenant laws is essential for protecting your property and ensuring legal compliance. Whether you are leasing a single-family home, a multi-unit property, or a commercial space, knowing the state’s rental rules will help you avoid disputes, protect your investments, and maintain good tenant relationships.
Indiana law is designed to balance the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants.
If you want a stress-free rental experience, PMI Lafayette can help you handle compliance, tenant screening, rent collection, and support you every step of the way.TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A FREE RENTAL ANALYSIS
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Required Landlord Disclosures in Indiana
Landlords are required by Indiana law to disclose certain information to tenants:
Nonrefundable Fees
Any nonrefundable fees charged to a tenant, such as administrative or pet fees, must be clearly stated in the lease agreement. The purpose of each fee should be explained in writing so tenants understand what they are paying for.
Security Deposit
Indiana law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits, but it does require the landlord to return the deposit within 45 days after the tenant moves out. If deductions are made for damages or unpaid rent, the landlord must provide an itemized list in writing.
Rights of Domestic Violence Victims
Indiana Code § 32-31-9 grants protections to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. These tenants may request to end a lease without penalty if they provide written notice and proper documentation, such as a court order or police report.
Owner or Agent Identity
The rental contract must list the name and address of the property owner or the agent authorized to act on their behalf. This makes tenants aware of whom to address notices or legal documents.
Move-in Checklist
While Indiana law does not mandate a move-in checklist, it is strongly recommended. Providing a signed list of the property’s condition at move-in helps both parties avoid disputes when the lease ends.
Indiana Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
The following are the basic renters’ rights in Indiana. A tenant has the right to:
Live in a rental property that is safe and habitable.
Receive repairs for essential services, such as heat, water, and electricity, within a reasonable time after requesting them.
Privacy―meaning landlords must give reasonable notice before entering, except in emergencies.
A written lease agreement for rental terms longer than 30 days.
Protection against housing discrimination under federal and state laws.
The following are the basic tenancy responsibilities in Indiana. A tenant must:
Keep the property clean and safe.
Use plumbing, electrical, and heating systems properly.
Comply with all building and housing codes that apply to tenants.
Avoid damaging the property or disturbing other tenants.
Pay rent on time and in full.
Notify the landlord promptly of needed repairs.
Indiana Landlord Rights and Responsibilities
The following are the basic landlord rights in Indiana. Landlords have the right to:
Collect rent as agreed upon in the lease.
Receive proper notice from tenants before they move out (usually 30 days in advance for month-to-month rentals).
Enter the property with reasonable notice for inspections, repairs, or showings.
Withhold part or all of the security deposit for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.
The following are the basic landlord responsibilities in Indiana. Landlords must:
Deliver the rental unit in a safe, habitable condition.
Comply with health and safety codes.
Make necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe after being notified.
Maintain common areas in a safe condition.
Provide working locks, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.
An Overview of the Landlord-Tenant Laws in Indiana
Tenant Privacy and Indiana Landlords’ Right to Enter the Dwelling
Indiana landlords must give tenants reasonable notice before entering, except in emergencies. Entry is permitted for repairs, inspections, showing the property to prospective renters, or when the tenant has abandoned the unit.
The Condition, Maintenance, and Repairs
Landlords must keep rental units habitable. This includes:
Working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.
Safe floors, stairs, and railings.
Weatherproofing for roofs and exterior walls.
Adequate trash receptacles.
A clean and vermin-free environment at move-in.
Indiana’s Housing Discrimination Laws
The Indiana Fair Housing Act and the federal Fair Housing Act prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, or ancestry.
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Security Deposits
Indiana has no set limit on security deposit amounts, but landlords must return the deposit within 45 days after move-out, along with an itemized deduction list, if applicable.
Required Landlord Disclosures
As covered earlier, Indiana requires disclosure of nonrefundable fees, owner/agent identity, and rights of domestic violence victims.
Renters’ Rights to Withhold Rent in Indiana
Indiana does not allow tenants to simply stop paying rent if repairs are not made. Instead, tenants can file a claim in court and request an order requiring the landlord to make repairs.
Small Claims Lawsuits in Indiana
Tenants can sue landlords in small claims court for up to $10,000, including disputes over security deposits or unpaid rent.
Understanding the laws is one thing — applying them is another. Our experts at PMI Lafayette make sure your rental stays compliant and profitable.
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Bottom Line
Indiana’s landlord-tenant laws provide clear guidelines for both parties, but compliance requires attention to detail. Understanding disclosures, repair obligations, tenant rights, and deposit rules will help you manage your property effectively and avoid legal trouble.
For landlords in Lafayette and the surrounding communities, PMI Lafayette offers full-service property management solutions designed to keep your rentals legally sound, profitable, and stress-free.