- Ohio does not have statewide rent control. There are no legal limits on how much a landlord can increase rent for residential properties, and cities and towns are prohibited from enacting their own local rent control ordinances due to a 2021 state law.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
- For month-to-month leases: Landlords must provide tenants with at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent. Verbal notice is not sufficient; the notice must be in writing.
- For fixed-term leases (such as a one-year lease): Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease specifically allows for it. Any increase can only take effect after the lease expires, and landlords must still give at least 30 days’ notice before the new rate applies if the tenant is to renew or continue occupancy.
Key Points for Tenants
- No cap on the amount: There is no legal maximum for how much rent can be raised, as long as proper notice is given and the increase does not violate other laws (such as anti-discrimination laws).
- Written notice is mandatory: Landlords must deliver a written notice of the rent increase at least 30 days before it takes effect, particularly for month-to-month agreements.
- Lease terms matter: If you have a fixed-term lease, your rent cannot be raised until the lease ends, unless your lease specifically allows for mid-term increases with proper notice.
- Retaliation and discrimination: Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation for tenants exercising their legal rights or based on discriminatory reasons.
What Tenants Should Do
- Review your lease: Check for any clauses about rent increases.
- Document communications: Always request and keep written documentation of any rent increase notice.
- Know your rights: If you believe a rent increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, you may have legal recourse.
Table: Ohio Rent Increase Laws 2025
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Limit on Increase | Local Rent Control Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 30 days, written | None | No |
| Fixed-Term (e.g., 1 year) | After lease ends, 30 days’ notice | None | No |
Ohio tenants should be vigilant about receiving proper written notice and understanding the terms of their lease, as there are no legal caps on rent increases in 2025.
Sources
[1] https://www.doorloop.com/laws/ohio-landlord-tenant-rights
[2] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/ohio-tenant-landlord-law/
[3] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/ohio-rent-control-laws/
[4] https://www.steadily.com/blog/mid-term-rental-laws-regulations-ohio
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/Ohio/comments/1hqo00m/rent_increaee/
