Indianapolis Releases Tenant Rights Notice

(photo courtesy of the city of Indianapolis)

The city of Indianapolis has released the tenant rights document, which stems from an ordinance passed earlier this year. Our partners at WFYI report that beginning July 1, all Indianapolis landlords must provide the “Notice of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities” to tenants when signing or renewing a lease.

The city says the notice will help ensure renters are better informed of their rights and responsibilities and provides information if renters feel their rights are being violated.

“Ensuring all residents have access to this knowledge is one step toward becoming a more equitable community,” said City-County Council President Vop Osili.

As outlined in the notice, tenant rights include a safe, liveable home, and privacy and anti-discrimination rights and states that landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for asking about these rights and exercising them.

In February, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett signed an ordinance which created a tenant’s bill of rights to further protect tenant rights. In March, Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb vetoed a measure that would have blocked Indiana cities from regulating rental properties.

The city says it has one of the highest eviction rates in the country.

Landlords must ensure that all tenants review and sign the notice for every new lease or renewal. Additionally, landlords must provide a copy for the tenant’s records and keep all signed notices on file. The city says landlords that fail to comply could face a penalty of up to $500 per tenant.

You can find more information by clicking here.

The full notice is below: