Security Deposit Laws in Ohio
Ohio does not cap security deposits, requires the deposit (less itemized deductions) to be returned within 30 days after the lease ends and possession is delivered, and presumes 24 hours to be reasonable notice before a landlord enters.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Ohio at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- No statewide limit
- State law sets no maximum deposit
- Deposit return deadline
- 30 days
- 30 days after termination and delivery of possession
- Interest on deposits
- Required in some cases
- State law requires interest only in some situations, for example above a unit count or holding period
- Notice before landlord entry
- 24 hours
- Reasonable notice; 24 hours presumed reasonable
The rules in Ohio
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Ohio?
Ohio law sets no statewide limit on security deposits, so the amount is set by the lease. Check for local rules where you rent.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Ohio?
Ohio rule: 30 days after termination and delivery of possession.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Ohio?
Only in some cases. Ohio law requires interest only in certain situations, for example above a number of units or after the deposit is held for a set time. Check the statute for the details.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Ohio?
Ohio rule: Reasonable notice; 24 hours presumed reasonable.
Where do the Ohio rules for residential leases come from?
They come from Ohio Rev. Code 5321.16 and Ohio Rev. Code 5321.04. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Ohio compares
Ohio is one of 21 jurisdictions with no statewide cap. Its 30-day return deadline is the same as the most common deadline of 30 days; 15 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.