Deposit maximum2 months’ rent
Statewide cap under § 562A.12(1).
Return / statement30 days
After termination and receipt of mailing address or delivery instructions.
Ordinary wearExcluded
Restoration deductions cannot include ordinary wear and tear.
Burden of proofLandlord
In an action concerning the rental deposit.
What to preserve
- Lease and rental-deposit receipt.
- Tenancy termination date.
- Mailing address or delivery instructions and proof they were received.
- Written withholding statement.
- Move-in and move-out photos.
- Invoices, estimates or ledger records supporting claimed deductions.
The mailing address is part of the clock
Iowa’s 30-day wording combines tenancy termination with receipt of the tenant’s mailing address or delivery instructions. Keep proof of when both conditions were satisfied.
Compare this issue across states
Use the exact Iowa source and tenancy facts. Trigger dates, lease terms, charge disclosures and evidence can change the analysis. Educational information only.