Renting in Idaho comes with rights and responsibilities, and this page puts the key tools in one place. You’ll find plain-language guides on leases, rent, repairs, deposits, and ending a tenancy. We include sample letters you can copy for repairs, deposit returns, and record requests, plus checklists to stay organized.
If you are facing a notice or court case, there are step-by-step resources to help you respond on time. You can also learn about fair housing, reasonable accommodations, and where to look for additional local help.
Renter Information
In 1977, the Idaho Legislature passed a law which gives tenants a method of forcing landlords to make repairs. This pamphlet describes the law and gives some hints on how to use the law.
We recommend you go through the following steps in this brochure if you have previously notified the landlord of the need for repairs and they have not been made.
This Landlord Tenant Manual was created by the Idaho Attorney General's Office and describes both landlord and tenant's rights and responsibilities in areas such as moving in, lease agreements, privacy, repairs and damages, utilities, mold, rent, changing the lease agreement, moving out, the Manufactured Home Residency Act, and storage units. This manual also includes citations to relevant law in these areas.
You may download the manual below or click here for the English and Spanish versions of this guide.
Moving out and worried about your security deposit? This set of handouts explains your rights in plain language and gives you ready-to-use tools to get your money back.
In Idaho, a landlord must return the full deposit, or send a written, itemized list of deductions, within 21 days after your lease ends (or 30 days if your lease says so), and can’t charge for normal wear and tear.
If that doesn’t happen, you can send a short demand letter and, if needed, take next steps in Small Claims Court. Resources are available in English and Spanish, so you can choose what works best for you.
Dealing with mold in a rental? This fact sheet explains what causes mold (usually moisture that isn’t fixed), common health symptoms, and what you can do right away: ventilate kitchens and baths, clean and dry damp areas within 24–48 hours, and use a simple bleach solution after washing.
It also covers when and how to clean safely, why paid “mold testing” isn’t usually necessary, and how to work with your landlord by reporting problems promptly, following up in writing, and documenting with photos if repairs aren’t made.
It includes contacts for more help from Idaho’s Indoor Environment Program.
