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Ohio Security Deposit Limits
Maximum deposit: No statutory limit. Landlords can charge any amount.
Statute: Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16
Full text: Read the law
Return Deadline & Requirements
Landlord must return the deposit within 30 days after the tenant moves out and provides a forwarding address.
Itemized Statement Required: If landlord withholds any portion, must provide an itemized list of deductions and the amounts within 30 days.
Move-Out Inspection
No statutory right to pre-move-out inspection.
Allowed & Prohibited Deductions
What Landlords CAN Deduct
- Unpaid rent
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Costs of repair with documentation
What Landlords CANNOT Deduct
- Normal wear and tear
- Pre-existing conditions
Penalties for Violations
Landlord Penalties: If landlord wrongfully withholds the deposit, tenant can recover the deposit amount plus damages plus reasonable attorney's fees.
Where to file: Small Claims Court (up to $6,000)
Interest Requirements
Required only if the deposit exceeds $50 or 1 month's rent (whichever is greater) AND the tenancy is 6+ months. Must pay 5% annual interest.
How to Get Your Ohio Security Deposit Back
If your landlord is withholding your deposit wrongfully, here's what to do:
- Document everything at move-out — Take photos and video of the unit's condition. Do a walkthrough if your state allows it.
- Provide your forwarding address in writing — Many states don't start the return clock until you provide this.
- Wait for the deadline to pass — Give your landlord the full 30 days required by law.
- Send a demand letter — If the deadline passes without your deposit, send a formal demand letter citing Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16.
- File in court — If the demand letter doesn't work, file in Small Claims Court (up to $6,000). You may recover additional penalties.
Get Your Security Deposit Back
Create a free demand letter for your Ohio security deposit dispute. Cites OH law automatically.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
How long does an Ohio landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days after the tenant moves out and provides a forwarding address in writing.
Does my Ohio landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?
Only if the deposit exceeds $50 or 1 month's rent (whichever is greater) and the tenancy lasts 6 months or longer. The required rate is 5% per year.
Is there a security deposit limit in Ohio?
No statutory limit. Landlords can charge any amount, though market standards are typically 1-2 months' rent.
What can I do if my Ohio landlord won't return my deposit?
Send a demand letter, then file in small claims court (up to $6,000). You can recover the deposit amount plus damages and reasonable attorney's fees.
More Resources: All State Guides | Security Deposit Demand Letter Guide | Demand Letter Templates