Ohio Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Ohio renters increasingly find themselves in situations involving short-term vacation rentals—whether living in them, leasing them out, or discovering their standard rental is becoming a short-term listing. Understanding tenant rights in Ohio when it comes to vacation rentals is essential to protecting your home and your legal standing as a renter. This article breaks down what counts as a short-term rental in Ohio, your legal rights and responsibilities, the official complaint process, and where to find further help, using only the latest government-backed sources.

What is a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Ohio?

In Ohio, a short-term rental is generally defined as a residential property leased for periods less than 30 consecutive days. These are commonly listed via platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.¹ Short-term rental agreements differ from long-term leases and may not offer all the same protections under the law. It's important for tenants to verify the nature of their rental agreement and review its terms carefully.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Short-Term Renter

While the Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (ORC Chapter 5321) gives protection to most residential renters, short-term vacation rentals may not always be covered by these statutes. However, certain basic rights and obligations apply to both short- and long-term tenants, including:

• The right to a safe, habitable living space (working heat, plumbing, etc.)
• The right to privacy – reasonable notice (at least 24 hours, except emergencies) is generally required for landlord entry
• The right to have the rental returned deposit (if one was paid), less damages and unpaid rent, after the stay
• The duty to avoid damage and follow any rental terms

If your rental is not a hotel or motel, you may have additional rights under the Ohio landlord-tenant law. Always confirm whether your lease terms state your arrangement is treated as a short-term or long-term rental for legal purposes.

Eviction, Early Termination, and Cancellations

Short-term rental arrangements may allow the landlord (host) to remove guests more quickly than in a typical lease—sometimes without standard court eviction processes. However, if you have been in the unit for more than 30 days, or if your agreement resembles a typical rental lease, you may be considered a traditional tenant with full eviction protections under Ohio law.

• For stays over 30 days: You are likely protected under the Ohio Revised Code, Section 5321.04 and formal eviction procedures apply.
• For stays under 30 days: Protections may be limited and host rules can apply. However, discrimination and unsafe conditions are never permitted.
• If you feel you’re being wrongfully removed without cause, Ohio courts allow you to contest an eviction.

Security Deposits and Damages

If you paid a security deposit, your landlord or host must return it within 30 days after you move out, minus legitimate damages or unpaid rent, as per O.R.C. 5321.16. Always get receipts and document the property's condition before and after your stay to avoid disputes.

Submitting a Complaint as a Renter

If you believe your rights have been violated—such as unsafe conditions, housing discrimination, or improper removal—here’s what you can do in Ohio:

• Maintenance or safety issues: Contact your landlord in writing and allow a reasonable time for repairs.
• Discrimination: File a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission under the state’s fair housing laws.
• Eviction or removal: If served with an eviction notice, you can file a response or answer in your local municipal or county court.

Important Official Forms for Ohio Renters

• Three-Day Notice to Leave the Premises (No official form number): Used by landlords to begin eviction proceedings. If you receive this, carefully review your lease and consider your rights. See a sample notice here.
• Answer/Response to Eviction (No official form number): Use this if you wish to dispute a formal eviction in court. File it at your county’s municipal court. Find your local court’s forms here.
• Housing Discrimination Complaint: File online using the Ohio Civil Rights Commission’s portal. Choose this if you face illegal discrimination.

Always keep copies of anything you submit and note deadlines on court and agency forms.

Official Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes in Ohio

Eviction and rental disputes in Ohio are handled by the Ohio Municipal and County Courts. For housing discrimination, contact the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.

FAQ: Ohio Renters and Short-Term Vacation Rentals

1. Are short-term vacation renters in Ohio protected by the same laws as long-term tenants?
   Short-term rentals under 30 days are sometimes not fully covered by the Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act, but you do have some basic protections such as safety, privacy, and freedom from discrimination.
2. What should I do if I’m being evicted from a short-term rental in Ohio?
   If you've been there 30 days or more, formal eviction procedures likely apply. For stays under 30 days, legal protections are limited, but you may still contest your removal in municipal court. File an answer if you receive an eviction notice.
3. Can my landlord keep my security deposit from a vacation rental?
   Only for actual damages or unpaid rent. Your landlord must return the remainder within 30 days, and you can take action in court if it’s withheld unfairly.
4. How do I file a discrimination complaint in a short-term rental situation?
   File with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission housing complaint portal if you believe discrimination has occurred during your rental process.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ohio Short-Term Renters

• Short-term vacation rentals in Ohio offer some protections, but coverage under landlord-tenant law varies with stay length and rental terms.
• Know your rights on safety, privacy, and discrimination—regardless of your rental type.
• Use official resources and legal steps—like responding to eviction notices and submitting complaints—if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Municipal & County Courts Directory – For filing and contesting evictions.
• Ohio Civil Rights Commission Housing Complaint Portal – For housing discrimination.
• Ohio Legal Help: Eviction Resources – Plain-language guidance for renters.
• Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (O.R.C. Chapter 5321) – Full legislative text.
• Local legal aid societies can provide free legal advice if you’re dealing with an urgent eviction or housing issue.

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1. Ohio Revised Code, Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants
2. Ohio Civil Rights Commission
3. Ohio Municipal and County Courts

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