Iowa does not have rent control laws in 2025. This means there is no statewide or local cap on how much a landlord can increase rent for residential properties. Landlords are free to set and raise rents based on market conditions, and local governments are prohibited from enacting their own rent control ordinances.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
- Month-to-Month Leases: Landlords must provide tenants with at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent. The increase cannot take effect until the notice period has passed.
- Fixed-Term Leases: For leases with a set term (such as 6 or 12 months), rent cannot be increased during the lease period unless the lease specifically allows it. Any increase would only take effect at renewal or when a new lease is signed.
Frequency and Limits on Rent Increases
- Current Law: There is no legal limit on how much a landlord can increase the rent, as long as proper notice is given and the increase is not discriminatory or retaliatory.
- Pending Legislation: In 2025, Iowa House Bill 740 (HF740) was introduced. If passed, this bill would limit rent increases for current tenants to no more than three times the percentage increase of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Midwest region or the percentage increase in the property’s assessed value, whichever is higher. The bill also proposes a 90-day written notice requirement for rent increases in manufactured home communities and mobile home parks, but as of May 2025, this bill has not become law.
Protections for Tenants
- No Discrimination or Retaliation: Rent increases cannot be used as retaliation against tenants who exercise their legal rights, such as filing complaints, nor can they be discriminatory under the Fair Housing Act.
- Lease Terms Control: If you are on a fixed-term lease, your rent cannot be increased until the lease ends, unless your lease agreement specifically allows for mid-term increases.
Other Key Points
- Late Fees: If your rent is less than $700 per month, the maximum late fee is $12 per day (up to $60 per month). For rent over $700, the cap is $20 per day (up to $100 per month).
- Security Deposits: Landlords may charge up to two months’ rent as a security deposit, which must be returned within 30 days of lease termination, minus any lawful deductions.
Summary Table
| Topic | Current Law (2025) | Pending Law (HF740) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent Control | None (no cap on increases) | Would cap increases to 3x CPI or property value increase (not yet law) |
| Notice Required | 30 days (month-to-month) | 90 days (for mobile homes, if passed) |
| Fixed-Term Lease | No increase until renewal | No change unless lease allows |
| Discrimination/Retaliation | Prohibited | Prohibited |
In 2025, Iowa landlords can raise rent by any amount with proper notice, except in cases of discrimination or retaliation. Fixed-term leases protect tenants from mid-lease increases. New legislation to cap rent hikes is under consideration but not yet enacted. Tenants should always review their lease terms and stay informed about any legal changes.
Sources:
- https://www.iowalegalaid.org/resource/summary-of-iowa-landlord-and-tenant-law
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/iowa-rent-control-laws/
- https://www.doorloop.com/laws/iowa-landlord-tenant-rights
- https://legiscan.com/IA/bill/HF740/2025