What to do after you send the notice

Keep copies and proof of sending

Save the PDF, the sent email, certified-mail receipts, or tracking numbers. Photograph the letter and envelope. You will need this if you go to court.

Give a reasonable time and allow access

Indiana Code § 32-31-8-6 requires written notice and a reasonable time to repair. Let the landlord in to fix the problem. Note every request for access.

Log photos with dates

Take dated photos of every essential-service problem and each room you cannot fully use. Add them to the evidence log so they stamp as exhibits later.

Track certified mail receipts

Enter the tracking number, date mailed, and when the green card came back. Photograph PS Form 3800 and 3811. Look the number up on USPS.

Call code enforcement or the health department

A city inspector can document housing-code or sanitation failures besides your letter. Look up the office for your ZIP.

Report whether anything was repaired or credited

Anonymous totals on the home page show whether this tool actually gets repairs done. Update when something changes.

If nothing is fixed: damages worksheet

List every essential-service failure, loss of use of rooms, and receipts. Print a statement verified under penalties of perjury.

Send a second written notice

If a reasonable time has passed, a follow-up letter cites the first notice and sets another short deadline.

If they lock you out or retaliate

Indiana forbids changing locks, removing doors, or shutting off essential utilities without a court order (IC 32-31-5-6). Retaliation after a protected complaint is also restricted (IC 32-31-8.5). Use the lockout letter and call legal aid.

Small Claims Exhibit and Damages Packet

Stamp your lease, notices, damages statement, and photos. The packet calculates damages from rent. You still file the clerk’s Notice of Claim.

Talk to legal aid if you can

Indiana Legal Services and other clinics can advise on eviction, lockout, and habitability. This site cannot be your lawyer.