Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Ohio landlord-tenant law provides basic protections for both landlords and tenants, with clear guidelines on security deposits, repairs, and eviction. Local ordinances in cities like Cleveland and Columbus may impose additional requirements.
Security Deposit
Limit: No statutory limit on security deposit amounts.
Return Period: 30 days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession. Must include an itemized written statement for deductions; written forwarding address affects damages and attorney-fee remedies.
Rent Increases
No statutory requirement for month-to-month leases, but 30 days notice is customary and recommended.
Entry Notice
Reasonable notice required, typically 24 hours is considered reasonable except in emergencies.
Key Statutes
- Ohio Revised Code §5321.16 - Security Deposits
- Ohio Revised Code §5321.04 - Landlord Obligations
- Ohio Revised Code §5321.05 - Tenant Obligations
- Ohio Revised Code §5321.17 - Termination of Periodic Tenancies
Common Issues
- Failure to return deposits within 30 days
- Not providing itemized deductions
- Landlord self-help evictions (illegal)
- Failure to make necessary repairs
- Improper notice for entry or lease termination
Documents for Ohio
- Ohio security deposit demand letter ($29, cites Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16)
- Ohio eviction notice ($29, for landlords)