Sealing an Eviction Record in Ohio: A Renter’s Guide

An eviction record in Ohio can make it harder for renters to find new housing. Thankfully, it is possible in some situations to seal (or "expunge") an eviction from your record. This guide explains the process to seal an eviction record in Ohio, including eligibility, required forms, and where to get official help. All legal terms and steps are designed to be accessible for renters without legal experience.

Understanding Eviction Records and Sealing in Ohio

When a landlord files an eviction (called a "forcible entry and detainer" action) against you, the public record can follow you for years, even if the case was dismissed or you won. Sealing a record means it is removed from public view and landlords or the general public can no longer access it. Court officials, however, may still see sealed records in certain situations.

Is Sealing an Eviction Record Possible in Ohio?

Yes. Ohio law allows courts to seal eviction records under specific circumstances. Generally, if you were never actually evicted, if you won your case, or if your case was dismissed or settled, you may ask the court to seal the record. If you lost the case and there is a final eviction judgment, sealing is less likely but not impossible.

When Can a Renter Request Sealing?

• The eviction case was dismissed by the court
• You won the case, and were not evicted
• You reached an agreement with the landlord and the judge closed the case
• There is a strong reason why the eviction shouldn’t remain public (for example, mistaken identity, or the case was filed in error)

Each case is unique. Successful sealing usually requires a compelling reason and a formal request to the court that handled your eviction.

How to Seal an Eviction Record in Ohio

Below are the main steps and the official forms involved. The process usually happens in the municipal or county court where your eviction case was heard. The Ohio Supreme Court oversees courts handling residential tenancy matters. Learn more at the Supreme Court of Ohio – Courts Directory.

Main Steps to Request Sealing

• Find your original eviction case record and identify the court
• Obtain or draft a motion (formal written request) to seal your record
• File the motion with the clerk at the same court that heard your case
• Attend a court hearing if one is scheduled (the landlord may object)
• Wait for the judge’s decision

Official Forms: What You Need

• Motion to Seal Eviction Record (no statewide mandatory form)
  When and how to use: Most Ohio courts accept a simple written "motion" for sealing an eviction. Some provide their own form. If not, you can draft a motion stating your case number, the reasons for sealing, and legal basis. For example, if your eviction was dismissed, mention this and ask the court to remove the record from public view.
  
  • Sample Cleveland Municipal Court: Motion to Seal Housing Case
  • Sample Franklin County Municipal Court: Motion to Seal Eviction Record
  Practical example: You were taken to court for eviction but your case was later dismissed. You can complete and file the court’s form to formally request sealing.

Always check with the Court Directory to contact your local court for the correct forms and requirements.

Which Courts and Laws Apply to Renters?

Eviction and sealing requests are handled in the Ohio municipal and county courts (housing or civil division). The main state law is the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 – Landlords and Tenants.¹ Specific procedures for sealing court records may also appear in local court rules. Some courts have adopted guidance similar to the general record sealing laws in Ohio.²

How Much Does It Cost to Seal an Eviction Record?

Some courts may charge a small filing fee (often $25-$50). If you cannot afford this, you can file a “poverty affidavit” or request a fee waiver form. Ask your court clerk about local forms and procedures.

Step-by-Step: Sealing an Eviction in Ohio

Here’s a practical summary if you want to move forward:

• Contact the clerk’s office of the court where your eviction was filed
• Request or download the sealing motion form (or use the sample above)
• Complete the form with your case details and reasons for sealing
• Sign, date, and file the motion with the court clerk
• Attend your court hearing if scheduled
• Watch for mail or email notification of the judge’s decision

If your motion is granted, your eviction case should no longer appear in public court records and databases.

FAQs: Sealing Ohio Eviction Records

1. Can all eviction filings be sealed in Ohio?
   Not all evictions can be sealed. Usually, cases dismissed, resolved in the renter’s favor, or filed in error have a strong chance. If a court ordered your removal, sealing is more difficult but sometimes allowed with good reason.
2. Does sealing an eviction erase it from all databases?
   Sealing removes the record from public court files but may not remove references from private background check companies (which often update periodically).
3. Do I need a lawyer to seal an eviction?
   No, you can file the motion yourself. However, a lawyer or local legal aid can help you prepare a strong case, especially if the landlord objects.
4. How long does it take for the record to be sealed?
   After filing, courts usually decide within a few weeks to several months, depending on whether a hearing is needed and court backlog.
5. Will landlords or employers see sealed eviction cases?
   No. Once sealed, the case is not public. Landlords, most employers, and the public no longer have access.

Key Takeaways on Sealing Eviction Records

• Sealing is possible in Ohio, especially if your eviction case was dismissed or resolved in your favor.
• Filing a motion with your local court and providing good reasons is essential.
• Use official court forms; legal help is available if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Courts Directory – Find your court and contact information for forms and filings
• Ohio Supreme Court – Renters' Resource Guide
• Ohio Legal Help: Eviction and Housing Resources
• For specific legal questions, contact your local legal aid office or the court's self-help center.

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1. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 – Landlords and Tenants
2. Ohio Law on Sealing Court Records (Section 2953.52)

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