The bill amends various sections of Iowa's property law, specifically addressing rental agreements, notice requirements, and possession of property. Key changes include the definition of "rent" to encompass base rent, utilities, late fees, and other payments made by tenants to landlords. It introduces provisions for electronic mail as a valid method for serving notices, provided that both landlords and tenants consent to this method in a separate addendum to their rental agreements. Additionally, the bill clarifies that notices posted on the primary entrance door of a dwelling unit must include the date of posting and that such notices will be deemed to provide notice to all tenants and parties in possession of the premises.

Further amendments include the enforcement of provisions in rental agreements, with penalties for landlords who willfully enforce prohibited provisions. The bill also establishes a process for expunging court records related to actions for forcible entry and detainer, particularly in cases of nonpayment of rent where the tenant prevails or the case is dismissed. It specifies conditions under which expungement can occur, including the requirement for the landlord's consent in certain circumstances. Overall, the bill aims to modernize rental law in Iowa, enhancing communication between landlords and tenants while providing protections for both parties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 562A.6, 562A.11, 562A.29A, 618.15, 562B.20, 562B.27A, 648.22
Reprinted: 562A.6, 562A.8, 562A.11, 562A.29A, 618.15, 562B.9, 562B.11, 562B.20, 562B.27A, 648.3, 648.4, 648.5, 648.22