Indiana Security Deposit Laws: Limits, Returns, and Deductions

Indiana's security deposit laws are governed by Indiana Code §32-31-3, which establishes the rules landlords must follow when collecting, holding, and returning security deposits. While Indiana is generally landlord-friendly, there are important requirements that must be followed to avoid penalties.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Indiana for guidance specific to your situation. Information last verified: March 2026.

Security Deposit Limits

Residential Properties

Indiana does not have an explicit statutory cap on security deposit amounts. However, the standard market practice is:

The total of the security deposit and any additional deposits (such as pet deposits) should generally not exceed 1.5 times the monthly rent. While this is based on common practice rather than an explicit statutory cap, courts may view significantly higher amounts as unreasonable.

Key Rules

• Landlords are not required to hold deposits in a separate escrow account
• No interest is owed on security deposits
• No prohibition against commingling deposits with other funds
• Move-in fees are generally considered part of the overall security deposit

What Can Be Deducted

Landlords may deduct from the security deposit for:

1. Unpaid rent — any rent owed through the end of the tenancy
2. Damages beyond normal wear and tear — tenant-caused damage to the property
3. Unpaid utility or sewer charges — if the tenant was responsible under the lease
4. Lease violation costs — documented financial losses from lease breaches

What is NOT Deductible

• Normal wear and tear — faded paint, minor carpet wear, small nail holes
• Pre-existing damage — conditions documented before move-in
• Routine cleaning — unless the tenant left the unit in significantly worse condition
• Improvements or upgrades — the landlord cannot charge for property improvements

Return Deadline: 45 Days

After the tenant vacates and provides a written forwarding address, the landlord has 45 calendar days to either:

1. Return the full deposit, OR
2. Provide an itemized list of deductions along with the remaining balance

Important Details

• The 45-day clock does not start until the tenant provides a written mailing address for the return
• The itemized statement must describe each deduction and the amount charged
• If the tenant does not provide a forwarding address, the landlord may hold the deposit without penalty

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If a landlord fails to comply with deposit return requirements:

Tenants can file claims in small claims court for deposits up to $10,000 (effective 2024 limit for Indiana small claims).

Move-In and Move-Out Best Practices

1. Conduct a detailed move-in inspection — Document the unit's condition with dated photos and video
2. Use a move-in/move-out checklist — Have the tenant sign and keep a copy
3. Keep all receipts — For any repairs or cleaning deducted from the deposit
4. Track tenant forwarding addresses — The 45-day clock starts when you receive this
5. Return deposits promptly — Don't wait until day 45; timely returns reduce disputes
6. Separate your records — While not legally required, keeping deposit records separate simplifies accounting

How Landager Helps

Landager's property management dashboard helps you track security deposits for each lease, set automated reminders for the 45-day return deadline, and store move-in/move-out documentation — keeping you organized and compliant with Indiana law.

Back to Indiana Landlord-Tenant Laws Overview.