Ohio security deposit rules
Ohio sets no statutory limit on the size of a security deposit. The deposit must be returned itemized deductions and refund within 30 days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession; tenant must provide a forwarding address in writing, with an itemised list of any deductions. Ohio is one of the states that requires interest on the deposit.
What the law requires
No statutory limit. Returned Itemized deductions and refund within 30 days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession; tenant must provide a forwarding address in writing. Interest is required only on the portion of a deposit exceeding the greater of $50 or one month's rent, at 5% per year, if the tenant stays six months or more; computed and paid annually. Wrongful withholding: damages equal to the amount withheld plus attorney fees. Text read via Wayback Machine copy of codes.ohio.gov.
- Deductions: unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, itemised in writing. Cleaning and repainting after ordinary use are normal wear in most states.
- Deadline: the 30-day clock usually starts when the tenant moves out and, in many states, when a forwarding address is provided. Missing it typically forfeits the landlord’s right to keep any of the deposit and can add statutory damages.
- Interest: Ohio requires interest on the deposit. The deposit interest calculator applies the rate and thresholds.
Move-out checklist
- Give written notice of the move-out date and a forwarding address; many deadlines only start when the landlord has the address.
- Photograph every room after cleaning, with a timestamp. Request a joint inspection where the state allows one.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand citing Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16. Small-claims court handles deposit disputes in every state and most cap the claim well above a typical deposit.
Related Ohio rules
- Late fees: No statutory cap or grace period for residential late fees in Ohio; courts enforce only reasonable fees (unreasonable fees may be struck as penalties). Late fee calculator.
- Notice to end a tenancy: At least 30 days' notice before the periodic rental date by either party (7 days for week-to-week) Notice calculator.
- All rules on one page: Ohio landlord and tenant law.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Ohio?
There is no statutory cap in Ohio; the market and the lease decide. Interest is required only on the portion of a deposit exceeding the greater of $50 or one month's rent, at 5% per year, if the tenant stays six months or more; computed and paid annually. Wrongful withholding: damages equal to the amount withheld plus attorney fees. Text read via Wayback Machine copy of codes.ohio.gov.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Ohio?
Itemized deductions and refund within 30 days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession; tenant must provide a forwarding address in writing. The statute is Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16.
Does a Ohio landlord have to pay interest on the security deposit?
Yes, in the circumstances set out in Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16. See the Ohio deposit interest calculator for the rate and the rules.