Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Ohio: What Renters Should Know

If you are searching for a home or apartment in Ohio, it’s important to know your rights when it comes to how rentals are advertised. Rental advertisements are subject to federal and state fair housing laws in Ohio, which prohibit discriminatory language in listings. Understanding what language landlords and property managers cannot use protects renters from unfair treatment and ensures equal access to housing.

What Is Considered Discriminatory Language in Ohio Rental Ads?

Both federal and Ohio state law protect renters from discrimination based on certain characteristics, known as "protected classes." Rental advertisements must not indicate any preference, limitation, or discrimination revolving around these protected characteristics.

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Disability
• Familial status (having children, pregnancy, or adoption)
• Ancestry or military status (added at the state level in Ohio)

The main law guiding these rules is the Federal Fair Housing Act and Ohio's own Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02 (Unlawful Discriminatory Practices).

Examples of Illegal Language in Rental Advertisements

Rental ads are illegal if they state or imply that only certain people are welcome or eligible. Examples of prohibited wording include:

• "No children" or "Adults only"
• "Christian home" or "Near synagogue" intended to attract specific faiths
• "Ideal for single person" (may imply families with children are not welcome)
• "No wheelchairs" or "Must be able-bodied"
• "No Section 8" (in some Ohio cities, this is local law—check with your city policy)

Even subtle hints, such as selective use of language or images that only show one type of person, can violate the law. Whether posted online, in print, or on a sign, discriminatory advertising is not allowed.

Complaint Process: What Renters Can Do

If you see a rental listing that uses illegal language or feel you have been discriminated against in your rental search, there are steps you can take. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) is the official body responsible for investigating complaints about housing discrimination. You can also file a complaint with the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Filing an Official Discrimination Complaint in Ohio

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission Intake Questionnaire (official form):
  OCRC Intake Questionnaire
  When to use it: If you believe you’ve been discriminated against in a rental advertisement or during your rental search, complete and submit this form to start the investigation process.

How to submit: The intake form can be filed online, mailed, or hand-delivered. You’ll need to provide details about the advertisement, the contact info of the landlord/property manager, and any supporting documentation such as screenshots or photos.

To file at the federal level, use HUD’s online housing discrimination complaint form.

Ohio Fair Housing Legislation and Official Tribunal

• State enforcement agency: Ohio Civil Rights Commission - Fair Housing Division
• State legislation: Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02 – Unlawful Discriminatory Practices^[1]

What Language Can Landlords Use?

Landlords are allowed to list objective property features (e.g., "no smoking," "no pets," "second-floor unit") and to describe amenities or neutral details. Ads should focus on the property—not the whom the landlord hopes to attract or exclude. Avoiding references to personal characteristics protects everyone and ensures fairness.

FAQ: Ohio Rental Advertisement Discrimination

1. Is it legal for a landlord to advertise "adults only" in Ohio?
   No. "Adults only" violates both Ohio and federal fair housing laws by discriminating against families with children. Ads must be open to all unless a lawful exemption applies.
2. What should I do if I see discriminatory language in a rental ad?
   Document the ad with a screenshot or printout. Then, file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or HUD using their official forms.
3. Can landlords advertise "no pets" or "no smoking" without violating the law?
   Yes. Restrictions based on pets or smoking are allowed as long as they do not discriminate against renters with disabilities who use service or support animals.
4. Do Ohio fair housing laws cover short-term rentals?
   Yes, most housing, including short-term rentals, is covered as long as there are more than three rental units owned by the landlord. Some exemptions may apply.
5. Who enforces rental advertising and fair housing laws in Ohio?
   The Ohio Civil Rights Commission investigates complaints, enforces the law, and helps resolve disputes. HUD enforces federal rules.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• Rental ads in Ohio cannot include language that directly or indirectly discriminates against protected groups.
• The Ohio Civil Rights Commission is the main agency for fair housing complaints in Ohio.
• Renters who see questionable ads should save a copy and use the official intake form to report a violation.

Knowing your rights about rental advertising helps ensure fair treatment and equal housing opportunities across Ohio.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission – Fair Housing Division (file complaints, get info)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Ohio Fair Housing Overview
• Ohio Department of Health (complaints about unsafe conditions)
• Ohio Revised Code – Unlawful Discriminatory Practices
• Ohio Courts Landlord-Tenant Resource Guide

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1. See Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02 – Unlawful Discriminatory Practices
2. Ohio Civil Rights Commission: File a Housing Discrimination Complaint
3. HUD: File an online housing discrimination complaint
4. The Fair Housing Act – HUD Overview

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