Iowa 7 Day Notice to Vacate

Last Updated: November 21, 2022 by Marnie Snyder

An Iowa 7 Day Notice to Vacate is a legal eviction letter delivered to the tenant for an incurable breach of the lease, such as a repeat violation which recurred within six (6) months. The tenant must move out and deliver possession of the premises within seven (7) calendar days.

When to Use an Iowa 7 Day Notice to Vacate

Use a 7 Day Notice to Vacate to begin the eviction process in Iowa if the tenant committed substantially the same or similar act (repeat violation) which recurred within a six (6) month period.

If the above is not true, use one of the below forms to evict a tenant:

  • 3 Day Notice to Quit -If the tenant is late on rent (starting the day after it’s due), either in part or in full.
  • 3 Day Notice of Termination – If the tenant threatened physical harm, illegally used a firearm or other deadly weapon, possessed illegal drugs or is determined to be a clear and present danger to other persons.
  • 7 Day Notice to Comply or Vacate – If the tenant failed to comply with health/safety rules, violated rules with too many occupants at the premises or any other violations of the lease.
  • 30 Day Notice to Vacate – If the tenant or the landlord is ending a month-to-month lease. This letter is also used for tenants with no written lease that pay rent monthly or for tenants with an expired lease.

How to Write an Iowa 7 Day Notice to Vacate

The Iowa 7 Day Notice to Vacate form shall be completed as follows:

  1. Write all adult tenants’ names (do not include minors);
  2. Fill in the complete address of the rental premises;
  3. Specify the rule or lease violation;
  4. Enter the date the tenancy terminates;
  5. Include the tenant’s balance due, if applicable;
  6. Include the date the notice is served;
  7. Landlord prints name and signs notice;
  8. Landlord includes address and phone number.

How to Serve an Iowa 7 Day Notice to Vacate

A landlord can deliver notices in Iowa using any of the below acceptable methods:

  1. Handing the notice to the tenant in person;
  2. Handing the notice to a person of suitable age and discretion at the property AND mailing the notice by regular AND certified mail with a return receipt;
  3. Posting the notice in a conspicuous place at the premises, such as the entry door, AND mailing the notice by regular AND certified mail with a return receipt.

When sending the notice by regular and certified mail, add four (4) calendar days to the notice period to account for variability in post office delivery times.

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