Iowa rental inspection report template

Iowa rules for this report

These rules are about how and when you report, not the template's fields. Check them before you deliver.

• Within 30 days after the tenancy ends and the landlord receives the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, the landlord returns the deposit or gives a written statement showing the specific reason for withholding any of it; where money is kept to restore the unit, the statement specifies the nature of the damagesIowa Code s. 562A.12 (3) (a) (Iowa Code 2026)
• The landlord may withhold only amounts reasonably necessary for unpaid rent or other money due under the rental agreement, to restore the unit to its condition at the start of the tenancy, ordinary wear and tear excepted, and for the cost of regaining possession from a tenant who does not leave in good faithIowa Code s. 562A.12 (3) (a)
• In a dispute over the deposit, the landlord must prove the reason for withholding by a preponderance of the evidenceIowa Code s. 562A.12 (3) (b)
• A landlord who does not give the written statement within the 30 days forfeits all rights to withhold any part of the deposit; if the tenant gives no mailing address within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlordIowa Code s. 562A.12 (4)
• Bad-faith retention of a deposit exposes the landlord to punitive damages of up to twice the monthly rent on top of actual damages, and the court may award attorney fees to the winnerIowa Code s. 562A.12 (7) and (8)
• The tenant keeps the part of the premises they use as clean and safe as its condition permits, keeps plumbing fixtures as clean as their condition permits, and does not deliberately or negligently damage any part of the premisesIowa Code s. 562A.17 (2), (4) and (6)
• The tenant may not unreasonably refuse entry for an inspection; except in an emergency or where impracticable, the landlord gives at least 24 hours' notice and enters only at reasonable timesIowa Code s. 562A.19 (1) and (3)

What is in it

• Entry and hallwaysWalls and ceiling, Floor, Doors and locks, Lights and switches
• Living and dining areasWalls and ceiling, Floor and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Outlets, lights and switches
• KitchenStove, oven and range hood, Refrigerator and freezer, Dishwasher, Sink, faucet and drain, Counters and cabinets, Walls, ceiling and floor
• BedroomsWalls and ceilings, Floors and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Closets and doors
• BathroomsToilet, Tub, shower, grout and caulking, Sink, vanity and mirror, Exhaust fan, Walls, ceiling and floor
• Laundry and utilityWasher and dryer, Heating, cooling and thermostat, Water heater
• Safety devicesSmoke alarms tested, Carbon monoxide alarms tested, Fire extinguisher
• Exterior, parking and storageBalcony, patio or yard, Parking or garage, Storage
• Keys, fobs and remotesItem, Quantity, Notes

Rules last reviewed October 10, 2026. Read the full Iowa rental inspection report requirements.