WeVote

Bill

Bill

HF 266

A bill for an act relating to application fees charged by landlords to prospective tenants.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jerome Amos and 13 co-sponsors

Bill HF 266 requires landlords to refund 50% of application fees to prospective tenants not selected, easing financial burdens and promoting fairness in rental applications.

Introduced, referred to State Government.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 266

Summary of Bill HF 266

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HF 266
  • Title: A bill for an act relating to application fees charged by landlords to prospective tenants.
  • Status: Introduced, referred to State Government.
  • Introduced Date: February 06, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject Areas: Fees, Housing, Landlord and Tenant, Rental Property

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill HF 266 is to regulate the application fees that landlords charge to prospective tenants. The bill aims to provide financial relief to applicants who are not selected for tenancy by mandating a partial refund of the application fee.

Key Provisions

  • Refund Requirement:
    • The bill amends Section 562A.9 of the Code 2025 by adding a new subsection (6).
    • If a prospective tenant pays an application fee and is not selected as a tenant, the landlord is required to refund 50% of the application fee to the applicant.

Impact

  • Prospective Tenants:

    • Individuals applying for rental properties will benefit from this legislation, as they will receive a partial refund of their application fees if they are not chosen as tenants. This change aims to reduce the financial burden on applicants who may apply to multiple rental properties.
  • Landlords:

    • Landlords will need to adjust their application fee policies to comply with this new requirement. They will be responsible for processing refunds, which may involve additional administrative tasks.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 06, 2025, and has been referred to the State Government committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent legislative actions, debates, or votes has not yet been established.

Conclusion

Bill HF 266 seeks to enhance fairness in the rental application process by ensuring that prospective tenants are not fully penalized for unsuccessful applications. By mandating a partial refund of application fees, the bill aims to create a more equitable housing market for individuals seeking rental properties.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.