Ohio Rent Control Laws: What Renters Need to Know (2025)

Understanding how rent is regulated can be a major concern for Ohio renters, especially for those facing unexpected rent increases. Many renters ask whether laws exist in Ohio that limit how much landlords can raise rent, or if there are protections similar to rent control or rent stabilization found in other states. This guide explores Ohio's current laws on rent control, what renters need to know about their rights in 2025, and where to turn for support and information.

Is There Rent Control in Ohio?

Ohio does not have rent control or statewide rent stabilization laws. This means:

• There are no legal caps on how much a landlord can increase rent statewide.
• Local governments in Ohio are not allowed to enact rent control ordinances.
• Landlords generally have the right to raise rent by any amount, as long as proper notice is given and the increase does not violate any fair housing or anti-discrimination laws.

Ohio law specifically prohibits local governments from implementing rent control (Ohio Revised Code § 5321.19^[1]).

How Can Ohio Landlords Raise Rent?

Even though there’s no rent control in Ohio, there are rules about when and how landlords can raise rent:

• Written Notice Required: For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent.
• Term Leases: If you have a fixed-term lease (such as a 12-month lease), your rent cannot be raised during that term unless your lease allows it.
• No Discrimination or Retaliation: Landlords may not raise your rent in retaliation for you exercising your legal rights, or because of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin (fair housing laws apply).

Always check your lease agreement, as it may have specific clauses about rent increases and notice requirements.

Which Agency Oversees Ohio Landlord-Tenant Matters?

Ohio does not have a single residential tenancy tribunal or board. Instead, disputes between renters and landlords are handled by local Municipal or County Courts, often called "Housing Courts" or "Small Claims Court." These courts resolve issues like eviction, rent increases, deposit disputes, or maintenance complaints.

Key Ohio Tenancy Legislation

• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants^[2] – The main law outlining tenant and landlord rights in Ohio.

Important Forms for Ohio Renters

• Notice to Vacate: There is no official state-wide form number, but tenants can use a "Tenant's Notice to Vacate" to let a landlord know they are ending a month-to-month tenancy. This form requires 30 days’ written notice. Examples and templates can often be found on Ohio Legal Help.
  Example: If your landlord increases your rent and you decide it’s unaffordable, you must provide 30 days’ notice before moving out if you are on a month-to-month agreement.
• Complaint Form (Small Claims): The “Small Claims Complaint” form allows renters to sue their landlord for damages (like returning a security deposit) in local court. Forms are available via each Ohio County or Municipal Court.
  Example: If you moved out after a rent hike and your deposit isn’t returned, you can file this form with your local court.

What to Do if You Receive a Rent Increase Notice

Understanding the steps after receiving a rent increase can help you act confidently:

• Check your lease to confirm whether the rent can be raised and when.
• Review how much notice was provided. (For month-to-month, must be at least 30 days.)
• If the notice period is too short, communicate this to your landlord in writing.
• If you can’t afford the increase or want to leave, give your own written 30-day notice to vacate.
• Never stop paying rent until you’ve followed valid notice procedures—it could result in eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Ohio have any type of rent control or rent stabilization in 2025?
   No, Ohio law prohibits rent control and rent stabilization. There are no statewide or local laws capping rent increases, but written notice is still required.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising my rent?
   For month-to-month leases, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
3. Can I dispute a large rent increase in Ohio?
   There’s no limit to the amount, but you can dispute retaliatory or discriminatory increases. If you believe your rights are violated, you can contact a local court or state agency.
4. Who do I contact for help if I can’t afford my new rent?
   You can reach out to local legal aid, your municipal court, or Ohio's real estate division for advice and resources.
5. What legislation covers tenant rights in Ohio?
   The main law is Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321.

Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• There’s no rent control in Ohio—rent can be raised without limit, but notice is required.
• Always receive written notice at least 30 days in advance for rent increases on month-to-month leases.
• If you have concerns about unlawful rent increases, support and legal resources are available across Ohio.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants
• Ohio Municipal and County Courts – Where to file a dispute or eviction case
• Ohio Legal Help: Rent Increases – Guidance on Ohio rent increase laws and tenant notices
• Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing – Handles some landlord-tenant complaints
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process

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1. See: Ohio Revised Code § 5321.19 – Rent Control Laws
2. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 – Landlords and Tenants

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