Residential Eviction Laws In Indiana: Know Your Rights as a Tenant
by Attorney S. Zachary T. Brock

Table of Contents
Facing eviction is a stressful and uncertain time for any Indiana resident. The thought of losing your home can feel overwhelming, leaving you with a million questions. Understanding your rights as a tenant under Indiana eviction laws is crucial during this difficult situation. This blog post will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the eviction process in Indiana, helping you navigate this challenging period.
Key points to remember:
- Indiana is a “landlord-friendly” state, meaning the eviction process generally favors landlords. However, you still have certain rights as a tenant.
- You cannot be evicted without following a specific legal process established by Indiana law.
- Knowing your rights and responsibilities under the law can help you protect yourself during the eviction process and explore potential solutions.
Understanding the Reasons for Eviction in Indiana:
A landlord can only evict you for specific reasons outlined in Indiana law. Here are some of the most common reasons for eviction:
- Non-Payment of Rent: This is the most common reason for eviction in Indiana. If you fail to pay rent when it is due, your landlord can initiate the eviction process.
- Lease Violations: Violating the terms of your lease agreement can also lead to eviction. These violations can include things like exceeding the occupancy limit, damaging the property, or engaging in disruptive behavior.
- Illegal Activity: Engaging in illegal activity on the property, such as drug use or prostitution, can be grounds for eviction.
- End of Lease Term: If you have a fixed-term lease that is expiring, your landlord does not need a reason to evict you once the lease term ends. However, they are required to provide you with proper notice to vacate before the lease expires.
The Eviction Process in Indiana:
The eviction process in Indiana typically involves the following steps:
- Landlord Serves Notice: If you violate the terms of your lease or fail to pay rent, your landlord will typically serve you with a written notice. The type of notice you receive depends on the reason for eviction:
- 10-Day Notice to Pay Rent: If you haven’t paid rent, your landlord will provide a 10-day notice to pay rent or quit the premises. If you pay the rent in full within this period, you can avoid eviction.
- 30-Day Notice to Quit: If the eviction is due to a lease violation other than non-payment of rent, or if you have a month-to-month tenancy, your landlord will typically serve you with a 30-day notice to quit.
- Notice to Terminate Tenancy at the End of the Lease Term: If you have a fixed-term lease that is expiring, your landlord will not need to provide a separate notice to quit. However, they are still required to provide you with written notice that the lease is not being renewed.
- Filing for Eviction: If you don’t comply with the notice (pay rent, cure the lease violation, or vacate the property), your landlord can file a lawsuit with the court to evict you.
- Court Hearing: A court hearing will be scheduled to determine the outcome of the eviction case. You have the right to appear in court and defend yourself. An eviction attorney can be invaluable in representing you during this hearing.
- Ruling and Writ of Execution: If the court rules in favor of your landlord, a writ of execution will be issued. This writ authorizes the sheriff to remove you and your belongings from the property.

What to Do if You Face Eviction in Indiana:
Facing eviction can be a frightening experience. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
- Review the Notice: Carefully read the notice you receive from your landlord. This document should outline the reason for the eviction and the specific deadline for you to respond.
- Contact Your Landlord: Try to communicate with your landlord to understand the situation and explore potential solutions. For example, if you are facing financial hardship and struggling to pay rent, you may be able to negotiate a payment plan with your landlord.
- Seek Legal Help: An experienced eviction attorney can advise you of your rights and represent you in court. A lawyer can help you understand your options, such as contesting the eviction or negotiating a settlement with your landlord. Brock Legal, LLC has a team of experienced attorneys who can help you navigate the eviction process in Indiana.
- Explore Resources for Rental Assistance: Several organizations in Indiana offer rental assistance programs to help low-income residents avoid eviction. You can find a list of resources on the website of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA):

Conclusion
Facing eviction in Indiana can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, understanding your rights and seeking legal help can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. By following the steps outlined in this blog post and working with an experienced eviction attorney, you can protect your rights and explore potential solutions to avoid eviction.
Remember, you don’t have to face eviction alone. Brock Legal, LLC is here to help you navigate this challenging situation and fight for your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
Attorney S. Zachary T. Brock

Attorney S. Zachary T. Brock
Zach empowers individuals faced with financial challenges by providing them with effective solutions and unwavering support in the areas of consumer finance and bankruptcy law.
By actively listening and empathizing with each client, Zach works to gain a deep understanding of every individual or family’s unique circumstances. This helps him tailor his legal strategy to best meet the needs of each client.
“No matter what may be weighing you down financially, Brock Legal is here to help. My mission is to help navigate you through whatever stressful circumstance you may be faced with, by offering unparalleled education and service in the areas of consumer finance and bankruptcy law. Let us show you how our firm can help. Contact Brock Legal today!”
-Zach