Idaho Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, guidelines and advocacy in Idaho
What are the late fee regulations in Idaho?
Idaho law requires late fees to be reasonable and specified in the lease agreement. There is no statutory limit on late fees, but they must be clearly stated in the lease. Courts generally consider fees reasonable if they are proportional to the actual costs incurred by the landlord.
What are the rules for security deposits in Idaho?
Idaho law does not set a limit on security deposit amounts. Landlords must return deposits within 21 days of lease termination (30 days if specified in lease). If deductions are made, an itemized list must be provided. Security deposits can be used for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other lease violations. Interest is not required on security deposits.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in Idaho?
Idaho requires: 1) 3-day notice for non-payment of rent, 2) 3-day notice for lease violations, 3) 30-day notice for month-to-month termination. Self-help eviction is illegal. Landlords must file court action and obtain court order. Tenants can stop eviction by paying all rent owed within 3 days of notice.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords in Idaho?
Idaho law requires landlords to maintain: 1) Building structural components, 2) Plumbing, electrical and heating systems, 3) Weather protection, 4) Safe and clean common areas, 5) Garbage facilities. Landlords must make repairs within a reasonable time after written notice. Tenants may have repair and deduct rights for essential services.
What notice is required for landlord entry in Idaho?
Idaho law requires landlords to provide reasonable notice before entering a rental unit, except in emergencies. While not specifically defined by statute, 24 hours is generally considered reasonable. Entry must be at reasonable times. Tenants cannot unreasonably deny access for legitimate purposes.
What are the rules for rent increases in Idaho?
Idaho requires 15 days written notice before any rent increase for month-to-month tenancies. For fixed-term leases, rent can only be increased at renewal unless specifically allowed in lease. Idaho has no rent control laws. Rent increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory.
What are my rights regarding repairs in Idaho?
Idaho tenants must: 1) Notify landlord in writing of needed repairs, 2) Give landlord reasonable time to make repairs, 3) If essential services are not provided, tenants may have the right to repair and deduct, terminate the lease, or seek damages. Keep all documentation of repair requests and responses.
What are the rules about security deposit deductions in Idaho?
Idaho landlords can deduct for: 1) Unpaid rent, 2) Damage beyond normal wear and tear, 3) Other lease violations. They must provide itemized list of deductions within 21 days of move-out (30 if specified in lease). Tenants can dispute deductions through small claims court.
What are Idaho's requirements for smoke detectors?
Idaho law requires working smoke detectors in all rental units. They must be installed according to local building codes. Landlords must ensure detectors are working at move-in, while tenants are typically responsible for battery replacement and testing during tenancy.
What disclosures are required from Idaho landlords?
Idaho landlords must disclose: • Lead paint (pre-1978 buildings) • Known methamphetamine contamination • Property manager/owner contact information • Known material defects • Security deposit terms • Utility arrangements • Any existing damage to the unit
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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
