Iowa Code ch. 648 § 648.1
Grounds
Operative Text
A summary remedy for forcible entry and detainer is allowable: 1. Where the defendant has by force, intimidation, fraud, or stealth entered upon the prior actual possession of another in real property, and detains the same. 2. Where the lessee holds over after the termination of the lease. 3. Where the lessee holds contrary to the terms of the lease. 4. Where the defendant continues in possession after a sale by foreclosure of a mortgage, or on execution, unless the defendant claims by a title paramount to the lien by virtue of which the sale was made, or by title derived from the purchaser at the sale; in either of which cases such title shall be clearly and concisely set forth in the defendant’s pleading. 5. For the nonpayment of rent, when due. 6. When the defendant or defendants remain in possession after the issuance of a valid tax deed.
Iowa Code ch. 648 § 648.1 establishes the specific circumstances under which a court may hear a forcible entry and detainer (FED) action — a summary legal proceeding used to resolve disputes over who has the right to occupy real property. The six recognized grounds include unlawful entry by force or deception, a tenant holding over after a lease ends or in violation of lease terms, continued possession after a foreclosure sale or a valid tax deed, and nonpayment of rent. Because FED is a 'summary' remedy, it is designed to move through the courts relatively quickly compared to ordinary civil litigation.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Iowa Code ch. 648 § 648.1, property owners and managers generally initiate a forcible entry and detainer action only when one of the six enumerated grounds applies — such as a tenant remaining after lease expiration, violating lease terms, or failing to pay rent when due. Compliant operators typically document the specific ground they are relying on before filing, since the court's authority to hear the case depends on the situation fitting within the statute. Keeping clear records of lease terms, payment history, and any notices given helps establish the factual basis for whichever ground is asserted.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Iowa Code ch. 648 § 648.1 limits the grounds on which a landlord may bring a forcible entry and detainer action against a tenant, meaning a court can only proceed if the landlord's claim fits one of the six categories listed in the statute. Tenants who believe a FED action has been filed on grounds not recognized by § 648.1 — or that the facts do not actually meet the stated ground — may raise that issue as a defense in the proceeding. Tenant-rights organizations and legal aid offices in Iowa can help individuals understand whether the ground alleged in a specific FED filing is legally sufficient under this provision.
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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