Iowa 7 Day Notice To Vacate

Last Updated: March 30, 2024 by Roberto Valenzuela

An Iowa 7 Day Notice To Vacate is a letter that complies with state legal requirements to begin eviction against a tenant for an “incurable” breach of the lease (i.e., one which the tenant isn’t allowed an opportunity to correct), such as a repeat lease violation. The tenant must move out within seven (7) calendar days of receiving notice.

When To Use an Iowa 7 Day Notice To Vacate

An Iowa 7 Day Notice To Vacate begins the eviction process when the tenant repeats the same or a substantially similar violation to one that received a previous notice of noncompliance, within a six (6) month period.

Some types of Iowa lease termination notice may allow different reasons for termination, or different notice periods. This may also apply to an eviction notice issued because of a lease or legal violation.

How To Write an Iowa 7 Day Notice To Vacate

To help ensure the legal compliance of a Notice To Vacate:

  1. Use the full name of the receiving parties, and address of record, if known
  2. Specify the termination date of the lease or tenancy
  3. Specify the basis upon which the tenancy will terminate
  4. Fill in the full address of the rental premises
  5. Provide updated/current address and phone number information
  6. Print name and sign the notice
  7. Complete the certificate of service by indicating the date and method of notice delivery, along with printed name and signature

It is easy to lose an otherwise justified legal action because of improper notice. Check carefully to ensure enough time after notice is delivered, not when it’s sent.

How To Serve an Iowa 7 Day Notice To Vacate

Iowa landlords may deliver a Notice To Vacate to a tenant by any of the following methods: 

  1. Hand delivery to the tenant
  2. Hand delivery to the tenant’s spouse, if a reasonable person has cause to believe they live with the tenant
  3. Hand delivery to a person residing at the premises who is at least 18 years old (may be a roommate, family member, or manager/proprietor, if the residence is a rooming house, hotel, club or apartment building)
  4. Other form of delivery to the tenant, evidenced by an acknowledgment of delivery that is signed and dated by a resident of the dwelling unit who is at least 18 years of age
  5. Posting on the primary entrance door of the dwelling unit, PLUS mailing by both regular mail AND certified mail to the tenant’s dwelling or last known address

Mailed notice extends a notice period by four (4) calendar days, to account for variable delivery times.

note
In almost all cases, notice is legally served when it is received by the other party, NOT when it’s sent. Check specified date of termination carefully to ensure compliance with the legal requirements for a notice period.

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