Ohio Security Deposit Rules: Limits and Return Deadlines

Understanding security deposit rules in Ohio is an important part of renting. Knowing how much a landlord can charge, how your deposit is held, and when it must be returned helps you protect your money and prevents misunderstandings during move-out.

How Much Can My Landlord Charge for a Security Deposit in Ohio?

Ohio law does not set a maximum limit on how much a landlord can request as a security deposit. This means a landlord could ask for an amount equal to one month’s rent, two months’ rent, or more.

• Important: If your security deposit is greater than one month’s rent, your landlord must pay you interest on the excess amount after the first year of your tenancy.
• The legal interest rate is 5% per year on any amount above one month’s rent, after you have lived in the unit for more than six months.

Landlords use security deposits to cover things like unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Security Deposit Return Deadlines in Ohio

After your tenancy ends and you move out, your landlord has 30 days to return your security deposit, minus any deductions. If deductions are made (for damage or unpaid rent), your landlord must give you an itemized written list of these costs.

• The 30-day countdown begins once you vacate and provide your landlord with a forwarding address in writing.
• If you do not provide a new address, your landlord is not legally required to send the deposit or accounting until they receive one.

When Can a Landlord Keep Part or All of a Security Deposit?

According to Ohio law, your landlord can keep part or all of your deposit if you:

• Owe back rent or other charges under your lease
• Cause damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear
• Violate other parts of your rental agreement that allow for deposit deductions

They cannot keep your deposit for routine cleaning or expected wear over time.

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back: Steps for Renters

To increase your chances of getting your full deposit returned, follow these steps when moving out:

• Give your landlord written notice of your move-out date (check your lease for requirements)
• Clean your unit and repair any damage caused during your stay
• Request a walk-through inspection with your landlord, if possible
• Provide your forwarding address in writing—this starts the 30-day return period

Official Form: Security Deposit Demand Letter

• Form Name: Security Deposit Demand Letter
• When to Use: If your landlord fails to return your deposit within 30 days, you can send this letter asking for its prompt return.
• How to Use: Fill in your details, include a forwarding address, date, and send it by certified mail for proof. Attach a copy of your lease and any photos if possible.
• Sample Security Deposit Demand Letter (Ohio Supreme Court)

What If There’s a Dispute?

If you do not receive your deposit or disagree with any deductions, you may file a claim against your landlord in your local Ohio Municipal Court, often in Small Claims division.

Ohio’s Landlord-Tenant Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321) explains your rights and responsibilities for security deposit issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Ohio have a security deposit limit by law?
   Ohio does not have a statewide limit for security deposits, but if the deposit exceeds one month’s rent, the landlord must pay 5% interest per year on any excess after six months’ tenancy.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
   The landlord must return the deposit, minus any lawful deductions, within 30 days after you move out and provide a forwarding address in writing.
3. What should I do if my landlord does not return my deposit?
   Send a Security Deposit Demand Letter first. If this does not work, you can file a claim in Small Claims Court for your deposit and possibly double damages.
4. Are cleaning fees deductible from my security deposit?
   Landlords may only deduct for cleaning if the unit is left unreasonably dirty, not for normal wear and tear.
5. Who handles deposit disputes in Ohio?
   Deposit disputes are handled by your local Ohio Municipal Court or Small Claims Court. See the list of Ohio Municipal Courts.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• Ohio landlords can set any deposit amount, but interest rules apply above one month’s rent.
• Landlords must return your deposit within 30 days of move-out and getting a forwarding address.
• Always provide written notice and keep copies for your records to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321) – key security deposit legislation
• Find Your Ohio Municipal/Small Claims Court – tribunal handling tenancy disputes
• Ohio Legal Help: Renter Rights – guidance and sample letters
• Sample Security Deposit Demand Letter – from Ohio Supreme Court

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1. Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16 – Procedures for Security Deposits
2. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 – Landlords and Tenants
3. Ohio Municipal and Small Claims Courts

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