What are tenant rights in Indiana?

Indiana tenant rights are governed primarily by Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31.

1. Security Deposit — No statutory cap. Under IC § 32-31-3-12, landlord must return within 45 days of termination with an itemized list of damages. Tenant must provide forwarding address.

2. Habitability — IC § 32-31-8-5 requires landlords to deliver a unit in safe and habitable condition; comply with health and housing codes; make all repairs reasonably necessary to keep the rental unit in fit and habitable condition; maintain electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems; and supply running water and hot water at all times.

3. Tenant Remedies — IC § 32-31-8-6 allows tenants to sue for damages, injunctive relief, and attorney fees if the landlord fails to repair. No statutory repair-and-deduct or rent withholding — Indiana courts disfavor self-help.

4. Notice for Entry — IC § 32-31-5-6 requires reasonable notice (typically interpreted as 24 hours) for non-emergency entry.

5. Eviction Notice — IC § 32-31-1-6 requires a 10-day notice to pay rent or quit for nonpayment. No notice required for end of fixed-term lease.

6. Termination of Month-to-Month — IC § 32-31-1-1 requires 30 days' notice by either party.

7. Rent Control — Prohibited by IC § 32-31-1-20.

8. Discrimination — Indiana Civil Rights Law (IC § 22-9.5) and federal Fair Housing Act apply. Indianapolis and Bloomington add sexual orientation protection. No statewide source-of-income protection.

9. Retaliation — Indiana has no general retaliation statute, though courts have recognized retaliatory eviction as a defense in limited circumstances.

10. Lockouts — IC § 32-31-5-6 prohibits self-help; landlord must use court process.

This is legal information, not legal advice.