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Residential Property Regulations
Rental properties are subjected to federal, state and local laws and regulations. A summarized list of these regulations can be viewed here.
- City Code of Ordinances
- International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)
- Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code 562A)
- Federal Fair Housing Act and Iowa Civil Rights Act (Iowa Code Chapter 216)
- Iowa Smokefree Air Act
The City of Indianola adopted a Residential Rental Code after reaching a milestone population of 15,000. The Residential Rental Code establishes a rental inspections and certification program. Inspections are conducted frequently to ensure compliance with City Code and to ensure public health, safety, and welfare. Read the code here.
Applicable rental properties must comply with the minimum standards outlined in the International Property Maintenance Code (2018) to be compliant with city code and all amendments to the IPMC.
The rights of landlords and tenants are outlined in Iowa Code 562A, Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law. A copy of this law is provided here.
In housing-related activities, such as rental housing, the Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. Learn more about the Fair Housing Act here. Similarly, information regarding the State of Iowa Civil Rights act can be viewed here.
If you would like to file a housing complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission or have questions about the law, please visit the Iowa Civil Rights Commission's website.
The Iowa Smokefree Air Act prohibits smoking in common areas of apartment buildings, such as stairs, hallways, and laundry rooms). The act does not prohibit smoking in an individuals apartment unit, but can be prohibited by the property owner or manager.
Information about the Smokefree Air Act for multi-unit properties can be viewed on this pamphlet. To find more information about Smoke Free Housing, visit the Iowa Smoke Free Homes website.