Iowa Code ch. 562A § 562A.20
Tenant to use and occupy
Operative Text
Unless otherwise agreed, the tenant shall occupy the dwelling unit only as a dwelling unit and uses incidental thereto. The rental agreement may require that the tenant notify the landlord of an anticipated extended absence from the premises not later than the first day of the extended absence.
Iowa Code § 562A.20 establishes that a rental dwelling unit is to be used as a residence and for purposes reasonably connected to residential living, unless the landlord and tenant have agreed otherwise. It also permits a rental agreement to include a clause requiring the tenant to give the landlord advance notice—by the first day of the absence at the latest—when the tenant expects to be away from the unit for an extended period. This provision balances the landlord's interest in knowing the property's status with the tenant's right to negotiate different terms.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Iowa Code § 562A.20, compliant operators generally limit permitted uses of the rental unit to residential purposes and incidental activities, unless a separate written agreement expands those uses. Landlords who wish to be notified of extended tenant absences typically include a clear notice requirement in the lease, specifying that notification must arrive no later than the first day of the absence. Keeping lease language aligned with § 562A.20 helps ensure that any absence-notification clause is enforceable under Iowa law.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Iowa Code § 562A.20 means that, by default, your rental unit is intended for residential use and activities that go along with everyday living—though different uses can be negotiated with the landlord. If your lease contains an extended-absence notification clause permitted by this section, you would generally be expected to inform your landlord by the first day of any such absence. Tenants who have questions about whether a particular use or absence-notice requirement is consistent with § 562A.20 may find guidance through Iowa tenant-rights organizations or a local legal aid office.
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 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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