Essential Lease Addendums Ohio Renters Should Know

Understanding your lease is crucial for every Ohio renter. Lease addendums—attachments that change or clarify the main lease—can affect your rights, from fees to pets to maintenance rules. In Ohio, knowing what to watch out for in these addendums ensures you’re protected throughout your tenancy and can avoid unexpected costs or trouble down the road.

What Is a Lease Addendum?

A lease addendum is a document added to your main lease agreement that creates new rules or changes terms. Addendums are legally binding if both the landlord and tenant sign them. In Ohio, these attachments must follow state law—meaning they can’t override your basic rights under the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlord and Tenant^[1].

Common Lease Addendums Ohio Renters Should Check Carefully

Here are some of the most common lease addendums used by Ohio landlords—and what they could mean for you:

• Pet Addendums: Outline whether pets are allowed, any restrictions (type, size, breed), pet deposits, and rules for pet behavior.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required by federal law for properties built before 1978. You must receive the Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards (Form EPA 747-K-99-001), along with a pamphlet on lead safety. (Always get this before signing.)
• Maintenance or Repair Addendums: Clarifies responsibilities for repairs beyond normal wear and tear. For example, who fixes appliances or handles lawn care.
• Utilities Addendum: Details which utilities (water, gas, electric, trash) the tenant or landlord pays. Sometimes includes rules for submetering or billing practices.
• Renewal & Rent Increase Addendums: Sets how lease renewals work, notice periods, and terms for rent hikes. In Ohio, landlords must provide proper notice for increases—typically 30 days unless otherwise stated.
• Entry Addendum: Explains when and how landlords may enter your unit. Ohio law requires at least 24 hours’ notice for most entries, unless there’s an emergency.
• Smoking or No-Smoking Addendums: Bans or limits smoking on the property or in the unit.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

While Ohio does not require many state-standardized residential lease forms, these official disclosures and statutes are essential:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Form EPA 747-K-99-001):
  • When and How Used: Must be given to tenants signing a lease for any house or apartment built before 1978. The landlord must have both the completed form and the tenant's signature before move-in. If you do not receive it, ask your landlord before signing.
  • Official form and lead paint guide

If you feel an addendum is unfair or possibly violates Ohio’s rental laws, you can use the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) Fair Housing Intake Questionnaire to report potential housing discrimination or unfair practices. Find it at the OCRC Fair Housing Resources page.

Watch Out for Illegal or Unexpected Addendums

• Addendums can’t take away rights that Ohio law gives you, such as your right to a safe, habitable apartment or proper notice before eviction.
• Examples of illegal clauses include: waiving your right to notice, excessive late fees, or committing you to pay for every repair regardless of cause.
• If you’re uncertain, consult the Ohio Supreme Court Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center for clear guidance.

Your Rights and the Tribunal for Tenant Issues in Ohio

Residential rental disputes in Ohio—such as disagreements over lease terms or violations—are typically handled through your local County Municipal or Common Pleas Court. For legal information or to file a formal complaint, visit the Ohio Supreme Court's Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center.

The main laws covering renters’ and landlords’ rights are found in the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 (Landlord and Tenant Law)^[1].

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a lease addendum and do I have to sign it in Ohio? If an addendum changes your lease terms, both you and your landlord must agree and sign it. You are not required to sign any addendum you disagree with. If you feel pressured, contact the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or seek legal help.
2. Can my landlord add a new fee or rule through an addendum after I’ve already moved in? New fees or rules usually require your written agreement. Ohio law does not allow your landlord to make major changes to your existing lease unless you sign off, unless specifically stated in the original lease.
3. Are there any forms landlords must give renters in Ohio? The main required form is the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure for properties built before 1978. Other disclosures, like crime or flooding history, are not required in Ohio.
4. Can a lease addendum in Ohio override state law? No. Any addendum that conflicts with the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321—like waiving your right to proper notice or to a habitable unit—is not enforceable.
5. Where can I resolve a lease dispute in Ohio? Most residential lease disputes go through your local County or Municipal Court. Refer to the Ohio Supreme Court's Self-Help Center for next steps and forms.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law (ORC Chapter 5321)
• Supreme Court of Ohio Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center
• Ohio Civil Rights Commission—Fair Housing
• Local Legal Aid: Ohio Legal Help – Renters’ Rights
• File complaints or resolve disputes: Check your local County or Municipal Court here

---

1. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlord and Tenant
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development — Lead Paint Disclosure
3. Ohio Supreme Court – Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations