Explanation of Tenant Rights in Ohio

In the state of Ohio, there are certain disclosures that are required to be given to tenants.

This includes the name and address of the owner of a property and their agent if one exists.

Certain units may also be covered by rent control and this must also be disclosed.

Here is an explanation of some other common tenant's rights in Ohio.

1. Security Deposits

Landlords are not limited to how much they can charge for a security deposit.

It must be returned within 30 days after a tenant moves and landlords may be required to pay a 5% interest rate on the deposit.

If not returned, tenants are allowed to sue landlords in small claims court for amounts up to $3,000.

2. Withholding Rent Rights

Tenants in Ohio are permitted to withhold rent under specific circumstances.

This usually involves repairs that are considered important, such as a furnace that has stopped operating.

After notifying the landlord of the maintenance issue in writing, if a response is not received, then the tenant may pay for the repair themselves and deduct the cost from rent.

3. A Right to Privacy

Landlords in Ohio must provide at least 24 hours of notice before accessing a rental property for an inspection or non-emergency repair.

If there is a critical maintenance need, however, as much notice as possible before entry should be given.

4. Retaliation Protection

Landlords cannot raise rent to be discriminatory nor act in retaliation against tenants that file a legal complaint against them.

A 30 day notice is typically required for a rental increase and refusal to pay a rent increase may allow for an eviction proceeding to occur with proper eviction notices.

Tenant's rights in Ohio fall in line with most landlord/tenant laws across the nation.

Each rental agreement may have special stipulations that must be followed, including if there are provisions for mid-lease rental increases.

In general, tenants have the right to a safe, secure, and private home.

Not providing that may violate their rights.

Posted on Jul 29, 2015


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