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Indiana Landlord-Tenant Law: What You Need to Know

Whether you're a landlord managing rental properties or a tenant leasing a home in Indiana, understanding Indiana landlord-tenant law is essential. These laws regulate rental agreements, rights, responsibilities, and the eviction process to ensure fair housing practices.

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In this guide, we'll explore key aspects of Indiana rental laws, from security deposit regulations to landlord maintenance responsibilities and eviction procedures.

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Landlord-Tenant Rights & Responsibilities in Indiana

Indiana law outlines the obligations of both landlords and tenants to maintain a fair and functional rental relationship.

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Landlord Responsibilities

• Providing a habitable living environment (safe, clean, and compliant with health codes).

• Ensuring essential services (water, heat, electricity, plumbing) are operational.

• Making necessary repairs in a timely manner.

• Giving proper notice before entering the rental unit (typically 24 hours unless it's an emergency).

• Following legal eviction procedures rather than self-help evictions (changing locks, shutting off utilities, etc.).

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Tenant Responsibilities

• Paying rent on time as agreed in the lease.

• Keeping the rental unit clean and undamaged.

• Complying with all health and safety codes.

• Not disturbing other tenants or neighbors.

• Notifying the landlord of necessary repairs or maintenance issues.

 

Both parties must adhere to these regulations to avoid disputes or legal actions.

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Compliance with Fair Housing Laws in Indiana

Indiana landlords must comply with federal and state fair housing laws to prevent discrimination in rental transactions.

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Protected Classes Under the Fair Housing Act

Landlords cannot refuse to rent, charge different rates, or impose unfair lease terms based on:
✔ Race or color
✔ Religion
✔ Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
✔ National origin
✔ Familial status (e.g., families with children)
✔ Disability

Additionally, Indiana has state-specific fair housing laws, which landlords must follow to prevent unlawful discrimination.

 

Reasonable Accommodations for Tenants with Disabilities

If a tenant has a disability, landlords may need to provide reasonable accommodations, such as allowing service animals in a no-pet rental or modifying rental policies to enable accessibility.

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Violating fair housing laws can lead to lawsuits, fines, and penalties from housing authorities.

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Security Deposit Laws in Indiana

Maximum Security Deposit Limit

Indiana law does not impose a cap on how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit. However, most landlords charge one to two months’ rent.

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Security Deposit Return & Deductions

• Landlords must return the security deposit within 45 days after the tenant moves out.

• Deductions are allowed for:
  ✅ Unpaid rent
  ✅ Damage beyond normal wear and tear
  ✅ Cleaning costs (if specified in the lease)

• If any deductions are made, the landlord must provide an itemized statement explaining the charges.

 

Failure to return the deposit on time may result in legal penalties, including the landlord being required to pay double the deposit amount to the tenant.

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Maintenance Responsibilities of Indiana Landlords

Landlords in Indiana must keep rental properties safe and livable. Their obligations include:
✔ Providing working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
✔ Ensuring doors, windows, and locks function properly
✔ Addressing mold, pest infestations, and hazardous conditions
✔ Repairing structural issues that pose safety risks

 

Tenant's Right to Repairs

If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, tenants may:
1️⃣ Send written notice requesting repairs within a reasonable timeframe.
2️⃣ Withhold rent until the issue is fixed (in some cases).
3️⃣ Take legal action if repairs are ignored.

 

A landlord's failure to maintain a habitable living space can lead to lease termination or legal consequences.

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Eviction Procedures for Indiana Landlords

Indiana has strict eviction laws, requiring landlords to follow proper legal steps when removing a tenant.

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Legal Grounds for Eviction in Indiana

A landlord can evict a tenant for:

• Non-payment of rent (must give a 10-day written notice to pay or leave).

• Lease violations (e.g., unauthorized pets, property damage, illegal activity).

• End of lease (if the tenant remains after the lease expires without renewal).

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Eviction Process in Indiana

1️⃣ Serve a Written Notice – The landlord must provide an eviction notice stating the reason and deadline for compliance.
2️⃣ File for Eviction in Court – If the tenant does not resolve the issue, the landlord must file an eviction lawsuit.
3️⃣ Attend the Court Hearing – A judge will determine if the eviction is justified.
4️⃣ Obtain a Court Order – If the landlord wins, the court issues a writ of possession, allowing law enforcement to remove the tenant.

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🔴 Illegal Evictions
A landlord cannot force a tenant out by:
❌ Changing the locks
❌ Shutting off utilities
❌ Removing the tenant’s belongings

Tenants who experience illegal evictions can sue for damages.

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Final Thoughts on Indiana Landlord-Tenant Law

Understanding Indiana landlord-tenant law is crucial for both landlords and renters. Following state rental laws ensures a smooth leasing experience while avoiding disputes and legal issues.

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Landlords must comply with security deposit regulations, fair housing laws, and maintenance duties, while tenants must uphold their rental agreements. For legal concerns, consulting a real estate attorney or reviewing Indiana landlord-tenant statutes is advisable.