Opinion ID: 1237360
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Consumer Price Index.

Text: The tenant objected to testimony and evidence of the CPI. The objection was based on the fact that it was not included in the lease; it was not a part of this agreement. It was irrelevant and immaterial. The landlord argues it proposed the CPI adjustment as a hedge against inflation. Although the tenant rejected this provision, it proposed the percentage rent agreement as an alternative. The CPI evidence had limited relevancy on the issue of the landlord's intent and its intent to insist on a hedge against inflation. Even if it were error to admit the CPI evidence, the admission did not affect a substantial right of the tenant. See Iowa R.Evid. 103(a); Shawhan v. Polk County, 420 N.W.2d 808, 810-11 (Iowa 1988). The jury's award of damages was not based upon the CPI but was clearly an allowance based upon the tenant's gross income for the twelve months prior to the breach of the lease plus interest.