If you rent or lease out farm ground, you may already be aware of September 1 as a critical time for notifications in Iowa—but if not, here’s a brief explanation of what you should know.

Farmland leases typically renew on March 1 each year, unless the lessor or lessee has expressly notified the other party in writing to terminate the contract, and this must be done no later than September 1 the previous year. If you intend to try to renegotiate lease terms, this is also the time to do that—so you can make an informed decision about whether to terminate and provide your notification by September 1.

Earlier this spring, Iowa State University Extension reported that average Iowa cash rental rates are down for the first time since 2019, by about 2.9% this year. This can of course affect your lease negotiations, along with your 2025 harvest and crop revenue prospects and any government payouts if you are the farmer; or land value if you are the landlord.

Ag & Business Legal Strategies provides assistance with lease termination notices. For more valuable details about this process, and to contact us for a consultation and a FREE “Farm Lease Negotiation Checklist,” follow the link below!