Ohio Safe Drinking Water Requirements for Renters

As a renter in Ohio, your health and safety are protected by laws that require landlords to maintain basic living standards, including providing safe and clean drinking water. This article explains Ohio’s requirements for safe drinking water in rental properties, what your rights are if issues arise, and how you can take action if your water quality does not meet state standards.

Ohio's Laws on Safe Drinking Water in Rentals

Ohio law requires landlords to ensure rental units are habitable. Access to safe and potable (drinkable) water is a key part of these “habitability standards.”

• The Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.04 states that landlords must supply running water and "reasonable amounts of hot water and heat at all times."
• This means your landlord is generally responsible for ensuring you have access to water services that are safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
• If your rental unit uses a private well, landlords must ensure the well water is safe, which typically involves periodic water testing.
• Public water supplies in Ohio are regulated for safety by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

What “Safe Water” Means in Ohio

Safe drinking water means water that is free from contaminants, such as lead, bacteria, and harmful chemicals, as defined by the U.S. EPA's National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. In Ohio, public water providers are required to conduct regular testing and disclose results. For private wells, testing is recommended at least annually.

What To Do If You Suspect Unsafe Water

If you believe your water is discolored, smells bad, or tastes off, you have the right to request that your landlord investigate and address the safety of your water supply.

• Document the Issue: Note the date, details, and symptoms of the water issue (e.g., color, smell, sediment).
• Notify Your Landlord In Writing: Use a written communication to let your landlord know there is a water safety concern.
• Request Testing or Repairs: Ask your landlord to test the water and share the results, or to fix any plumbing or filtration issues.
• If the landlord does not respond, you may file a complaint with the Ohio EPA Drinking Water Program.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

• "Tenant Notice to Remedy Conditions" (No official form number)
  Use if you need to formally request the landlord fix the water issue.
  When to Use: If your landlord is unresponsive to informal requests. Write a letter or fill out a notice template requesting the specific repair or maintenance (e.g., testing/treatment of water supply).
  View standard notice form
• "Rent Escrow Application" (Local Court Form)
  File with your local municipal or county court if your landlord doesn’t fix the problem after written notice.
  How to Use: Submit the form and deposit your rent with the court until repairs are made. Must provide proof of prior written notice to landlord.
  Find your court's rent escrow form
• "EPA Public Water System Complaint Form"
  If your water comes from a public source and remains unsafe after notifying your landlord.
  Download the EPA complaint form

Who Handles Rental Housing Disputes in Ohio?

The main authority for rental disputes in Ohio is your local Municipal or County Court. They handle rent escrow, habitability complaints, and eviction cases.

Tip: Always keep copies of any notices and correspondence regarding water safety issues for your records.

FAQ: Ohio Drinking Water Standards for Renters

1. What are my rights if my rental's tap water is discolored or smells bad? Landlords must provide safe, potable water. Notify your landlord in writing and request testing. If the issue isn’t fixed, you may file a complaint or use rent escrow.
2. If my rental uses well water, who pays for testing? In most cases, the landlord is responsible for ensuring water safety, including covering costs for reasonable testing and necessary repairs.
3. What if my landlord ignores my request to test the water? You can file a "Tenant Notice to Remedy Conditions" and, if unresolved, apply for rent escrow with your local court or file a complaint with the Ohio EPA.
4. How often should rental property water be tested? Public water is routinely tested. Private wells should be tested at least once a year, especially for bacteria and lead.
5. Can I break my lease because of unsafe water? If the landlord fails to supply safe water after proper notice and opportunity to repair, you may have legal grounds to terminate the lease. Consult your local court or legal aid service first.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• Ohio law requires landlords to provide access to safe, potable water in rentals.
• If you suspect water issues, quickly inform your landlord in writing and document everything.
• Use official forms and resources—such as rent escrow or EPA complaints—if problems are not resolved.

Understanding your rights empowers you to take swift action to protect your health and housing stability.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Revised Code – Landlord Duties
• Ohio EPA Drinking and Ground Waters Division
• Find Your Local Municipal/County Court
• Ohio Tenant Resources & Legal Aid
• For legal advice, contact your local Legal Aid Society or county bar association.

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1. Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.04 – Landlord Obligations
2. Ohio EPA – Drinking Water Systems
3. U.S. EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
4. Ohio Municipal and County Courts

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