When Landlords Can Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs in Ohio

Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Ohio published June 21, 2025 Flag of Ohio

If you’re renting in Ohio, you may wonder whether your landlord can raise your rent to cover extra expenses such as building repairs, tax increases, or higher utility costs. These additional charges, known as "pass-through costs," can be confusing for tenants. Understanding your rights under Ohio law can help you respond confidently and protect yourself from improper rent increases.

Understanding Pass-Through Costs and Rent Increases in Ohio

Pass-through costs refer to expenses that landlords may try to transfer to renters, such as property tax hikes, new utility fees, or repairs outside normal maintenance. These can sometimes lead to proposed rent increases. In Ohio, there is no statewide rent control, so landlords have broad ability to change rents—but must follow certain rules established under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 - Landlord and Tenant Law[1].

Key Facts About Rent Increases in Ohio

  • No statewide rent control: Cities in Ohio do not have rent control or rent stabilization, so limits on rent increases are minimal outside rare local ordinances.
  • Adequate notice required: To raise rent (for any reason, including pass-through costs), a landlord must give you at least 30 days' written notice before your rental period ends (usually before your next month starts if you have a month-to-month lease).
  • Lease controls increases: If you have a fixed-term lease (e.g., one year), your landlord generally cannot increase the rent until the lease expires—unless your lease clearly allows such changes.
  • No mid-lease pass-throughs unless in lease: If the lease is silent, landlords cannot add pass-through costs or increase rent mid-lease.

When Can Landlords Use Pass-Through Costs to Raise Rent?

  • If your written lease allows it: Some leases include "pass-through" clauses about charging for certain new costs (like increases in utility rates). If so, the landlord can only add these charges as described in your lease.
  • Month-to-month or after lease ends: At the end of your lease term or on a month-to-month tenancy, rent can be raised—including for pass-through costs—if you get correct written notice.
  • No notice, no increase: A landlord cannot retroactively bill pass-through costs or hike rent without proper notice.

Always keep a copy of your signed lease and any rent increase notices for your records.

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Required Notices and Official Forms

Ohio law does not require landlords to use a specific government form to notify tenants of rent increases or pass-through charges, but the notice must be in writing and delivered properly. If you wish to dispute a rent increase or feel you are being charged illegally, you may use these steps:

  • Notice of Rent Increase: Your landlord should provide this in writing (letter or email if your lease allows). While there is no official statewide form, sample templates can often be found on local legal aid websites, but always verify that your notice meets Ohio law.
  • Complaint Forms: If you believe the increase is improper, you may file a complaint with your local municipal housing or code enforcement office, or start a dispute in your county’s court. In some larger Ohio cities, housing divisions offer their own forms. For example, in Cleveland, tenants can use the Cleveland Housing Court Forms to file a tenant complaint. The most common form is titled "Tenant’s Complaint Against Landlord.”
Review your lease carefully. If it doesn’t permit pass-through costs, your landlord cannot charge you extra mid-lease for new expenses.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Ohio?

The court generally responsible for rental disputes in Ohio is the local Municipal or County Court (Housing Division). There is no separate statewide residential tenancy tribunal. For guidance, you may contact your local county court or housing division directly.

How Do I Dispute a Rent Increase or Pass-Through Charge?

Here’s what you can do if you believe your landlord is raising your rent for pass-through costs unlawfully:

  • Check your lease agreement for any clauses about extra charges or pass-through costs.
  • If unsure, request proof from your landlord about the new costs and the basis for the increase.
  • If the notice is invalid or you suspect a violation, respond in writing (keep a copy).
  • Contact legal aid or your local housing court for advice or to file a formal complaint (find Ohio court info here).

Standing up for your rental rights can help ensure you’re only paying what’s legally owed.

FAQ: Ohio Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs

  1. Can my landlord in Ohio charge me for increased taxes or repairs mid-lease? Usually not, unless your lease specifically allows for those pass-through charges.
  2. How much notice does my landlord need to give me before raising rent? At least 30 days' advance written notice before the end of your current rental period.
  3. Is there a limit on how much my rent can go up in Ohio? No statewide limit exists; landlords can generally set new rent for each period if they follow the notice rules.
  4. Where can I file a complaint about an illegal rent increase? Complaints go to your local county or municipal court—often its housing division. You may also contact your local code enforcement office for assistance.
  5. Do I need to use a specific form to dispute a rent increase? Ohio doesn’t require a specific form statewide, but some cities or courts may have their own tenant complaint forms. Check with your local housing court.

Key Takeaways

  • Ohio does not have rent control; landlords can raise rent as lease and notice rules allow.
  • Pass-through costs can only be charged if your lease says so or after your lease ends with written notice.
  • Always review notices and your lease, and seek help if you believe a rent increase is improper.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. [1] Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 – Landlord and Tenant Law

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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