Des Moines · Iowa
Des Moines, IA Landlord Laws 2026
Every housing law that applies to Des Moines landlords — security deposits, eviction rules, rent increases, and more. Updated for 2026.
Based on Iowa state law.
Des Moines Rental Market in 2026
$1,318
median 2BR rent
210,381
population
$2,636
max security deposit
Des Moines landlords must comply with Iowa state landlord-tenant laws. At a median 2-bedroom rent of $1,318/month, understanding deposit caps, notice periods, and eviction rules can save you thousands in penalties.
Local Housing Market Data
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Des Moines is $1,318/month, which affects Section 8 voucher amounts and affordable housing calculations.
Key Takeaways for Des Moines Landlords
- Security deposit: Capped at 2 month(s) of rent ($2,636 at median rent). Must return within 30 days or face penalties up to $2,636.
Iowa Laws That Apply in Des Moines
Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Iowa Code §562A.1 et seq.
Comprehensive landlord-tenant law governing security deposits, habitability, eviction, and tenant rights.
Des Moines Landlord Law Topics
Click any topic below for detailed Des Moines-specific rules, deadlines, penalties, and free compliance tools.
Security Deposit Laws
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Eviction Process & Notice Requirements
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Rent Increase Laws
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Landlord Entry & Access Rules
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Maintenance & Habitability Standards
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Late Fee Limits
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Lease Termination & Renewal
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Fair Housing Protections
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Tenant Screening Rules
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Required Landlord Disclosures
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Rent Control
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
Property Registration Requirements
Des Moines-specific rules and penalties →
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Don’t Risk Penalties
At Des Moines’s median rent of $1,318/month, a single deposit violation could cost you $2,636+. A wrongful eviction can cost thousands more in court fees, relocation payments, and damages. Know the rules before they cost you.
Don’t risk it. Let LeaseBase track Des Moines compliance for you.
Deposit deadlines, eviction notice periods, rent cap calculations — monitored automatically.
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Nearby Cities — Landlord Laws
Own properties in multiple cities? Laws may differ. Check the rules for nearby areas:
Pop. 46,729
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Johnston, IAPop. 24,640
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Clive, IAPop. 19,005
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
West Des Moines, IAPop. 72,205
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Altoona, IAPop. 21,698
Same state laws apply — check for local ordinances
Check your Des Moines property’s compliance
Track Iowa landlord-tenant law compliance, collect rent online, and manage maintenance — all in one platform.
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Reviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
