Cal. Civ. Code § 32-31-3-4
"Owner" defined
Operative Text
Sec. 4. (a) As used in this chapter, "owner" means one (1) or more persons in whom is vested all or part of the legal title to property. (b) The term includes a mortgagee or contract purchaser in possession.
Ind. Code § 32-31-3-4 establishes what the term 'owner' means throughout Indiana's landlord-tenant security deposit chapter. Under this definition, ownership is not limited to a single individual holding full title — it extends to any person or group of persons who hold all or even a portion of legal title to a property. Notably, the definition also covers mortgagees and contract purchasers who are in possession of the property, meaning parties who have a financial or contractual interest and physical control can qualify as owners even without holding traditional deed-based title.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Ind. Code § 32-31-3-4, the obligations and responsibilities that Indiana's security deposit statutes place on 'owners' apply broadly — including to mortgagees and contract purchasers who are in possession of a rental property. Property managers and investors who hold partial legal title or who are purchasing under a land contract while in possession should be aware that they may fall within this definition and be subject to the chapter's requirements. Operators in these non-traditional ownership arrangements generally ensure they understand which party bears the statutory duties that attach to 'owner' status under Indiana law.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Ind. Code § 32-31-3-4 means that tenants are not limited to looking only at a traditional deed-holder when identifying who qualifies as their 'owner' under Indiana's security deposit rules. If a property is held by multiple title-holders, or if a mortgagee or contract purchaser is in possession, any of those parties may carry the legal responsibilities that come with 'owner' status. Tenants who are uncertain about who qualifies as their owner in a given arrangement may find it helpful to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider familiar with Indiana housing law.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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