Iowa Code § 562A.12: Iowa security deposit rules in plain English
What Iowa Code § 562A.12 says about Iowa security deposits: the cap, the deadline to return the deposit, itemized deductions and interest. Every fact below comes from our statute-checked data. Last verified 2026-10-22.
Quick answer
- Return deadline
- 30 days
- Maximum deposit
- 2 months' rent. The deposit must be held in a federally insured bank, savings and loan or credit union account, not mixed with the landlord's own money.
- Itemized list
- Yes, an itemized list of deductions is required
- Interest
- No for the first five years of a tenancy: interest earned in that period belongs to the landlord.
What Iowa Code § 562A.12 says, as we verified it
Deposit limit
2 months' rent. The deposit must be held in a federally insured bank, savings and loan or credit union account, not mixed with the landlord's own money.
Interest
No for the first five years of a tenancy: interest earned in that period belongs to the landlord.
Full citation: Iowa Code § 562A.12(1)-(4) Read the official text
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FAQ: Iowa Code § 562A.12
How long does a landlord have to return a deposit under Iowa Code § 562A.12?
Under Iowa Code § 562A.12, a Iowa landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions.
Is there a limit on the security deposit in Iowa?
2 months' rent. The deposit must be held in a federally insured bank, savings and loan or credit union account, not mixed with the landlord's own money.
Does Iowa require an itemized list of deductions?
Yes, an itemized list of deductions is required. Citation: Iowa Code § 562A.12(1)-(4).
Does the landlord have to pay interest on the deposit in Iowa?
No for the first five years of a tenancy: interest earned in that period belongs to the landlord.
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Scan my Iowa leaseGeneral information only, not legal advice. Last verified 2026-10-22. Laws change; verify with the linked source or a licensed attorney.