Security Deposit Laws in Ohio
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Ohio?
Under Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16, a landlord in Ohio has 30 days after you move out to either return your full security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions along with any remaining balance.
Important Ohio-specific details
No statutory cap on deposit amount. 30-day return clock starts from termination of rental agreement, delivery of possession, AND tenant's provision of forwarding address in writing. If tenant fails to provide a forwarding address, landlord has no duty to return or account and tenant loses right to damages/attorney fees.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Ohio?
Missing the deadline has real consequences for landlords in Ohio. Under the statute, the penalty is: If landlord wrongfully withholds, tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld PLUS damages equal to that amount (effectively double damages) plus reasonable attorney's fees.
In practice, this means if your landlord doesn't return the deposit (or a proper itemized statement) within 30 days, you likely have a strong case in small claims court.
What can the landlord legally deduct from your deposit in Ohio?
Ohio law generally allows landlords to deduct for:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage to the unit beyond normal wear and tear — holes in walls, broken fixtures, stains, pet damage
- Cleaning costs, if the unit is left noticeably dirtier than at move-in
- Breach-of-lease costs, such as early termination fees where legally permitted
Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet from regular use, minor scuffs, or small nail holes from hanging pictures.
Calculator: check your deposit situation
Enter your move-out date and deposit amount below to see exactly when your landlord's deadline is — and whether they've already missed it.
Security Deposit Return Calculator
Find out when your landlord must return your deposit and what they're legally allowed to deduct.
What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Ohio
- Send a demand letter by certified mail. Cite Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 and the amount owed. Keep a copy and the delivery receipt.
- Give the landlord a reasonable response window — typically 7 to 14 days after the demand letter.
- File in small claims court. In most states you can sue for up to $5,000–$10,000 without a lawyer. Filing fees are usually $30–$75 and often recoverable as costs.
- Bring evidence. Lease, move-in and move-out photos, the demand letter, proof of delivery, and any communications with the landlord.
For a complete walkthrough, see our guide: What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit.
Ohio Security Deposit FAQ
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Ohio?
- In Ohio, landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days of the tenant moving out, per Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16. They must either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of any deductions.
- What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Ohio?
- Ohio does not have a statutory cap on security deposits. Landlords can charge any amount, though market norms typically keep deposits to 1-2 months' rent.
- What happens if my landlord doesn't return my deposit on time in Ohio?
- In Ohio, the penalty for wrongfully withholding a security deposit is: If landlord wrongfully withholds, tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld PLUS damages equal to that amount (effectively double damages) plus reasonable attorney's fees. You can sue in small claims court to recover the deposit plus the statutory penalty.
- Does my landlord in Ohio have to pay interest on my security deposit?
- Yes. Ohio requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. If deposit exceeds the greater of $50 or one month's rent AND tenant occupies the unit for 6+ months, landlord must pay 5% annual interest on the amount exceeding that threshold (not the entire deposit). Interest is paid annually.
- Does my landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit in Ohio?
- Yes. Ohio law requires landlords to provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from your security deposit.