Security deposit laws in Iowa

What to do if your Iowa landlord won't return your deposit

• Confirm the 30-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
• Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
• Send a formal demand letter citing Iowa's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
• If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — Iowa allows up to 1x damages for wrongful withholding.