Ohio
Security deposit laws in Ohio
The Ohio-specific deadline, what you can deduct, and how to write a compliant itemized statement — with statutory citations.
Return deadline
30 days
Generally within 30 days after the tenant vacates and provides a forwarding address in writing.
Source: Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.16
What landlords can deduct
- Itemized statement must list each deduction with a description and amount.
- Refund the balance within 30 days.
- Do not deduct for normal wear and tear.
- If no itemization is provided within 30 days, the landlord may forfeit the right to withhold.
Receipts & documentation
- Provide a written itemized list of all deductions within 30 days.
- Ohio does not require copies of receipts to be attached, but documented invoices are recommended.
- Retain all original invoices and photo evidence for your records.
Gray areas to review carefully
Damages penalty for bad-faith retention
A landlord who fails to comply may be liable for the wrongfully withheld amount plus damages (often double) and attorney fees. Review each deduction carefully.
Written forwarding address required
Ohio's 30-day obligation depends on the tenant providing a written forwarding address.
Normal wear and tear vs. damage
Only damage beyond normal wear and tear is deductible.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Ohio?
Generally 30 days. Generally within 30 days after the tenant vacates and provides a forwarding address in writing. Source: Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.16. This is a general rule — verify your specific situation and any local ordinances.
Is an itemized statement required in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio requires a written itemized list of deductions. Itemized statement must list each deduction with a description and amount.
Can a landlord deduct for "normal wear and tear" in Ohio?
No. Every US state (including Ohio) excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Only damage beyond ordinary wear — such as stains, burns, large holes, or breakage — is typically deductible. Compare move-in and move-out photos for each item.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Ohio?
A landlord who fails to comply may be liable for the wrongfully withheld amount plus damages (often double) and attorney fees. Review each deduction carefully.
Does MoveOutGuard support Ohio?
Yes — MoveOutGuard generates a Ohio-specific deduction letter using the deadline (30 days) and citation (Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.16) above. Upload your receipts and move-out photos and the AI drafts an itemized letter for human review.
Draft your Ohio letter in minutes
Upload receipts and photos. Get a Ohio-specific itemized deduction letter for human review.
MoveOutGuard is a document preparation and evidence organization tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Drafts, checklists, and deadline estimates require your review and are not a guarantee of compliance or outcomes. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.