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Contents
This article provides general information and is not legal advice. For accuracy and specific guidance on landlord-tenant laws, consult an attorney before making any decisions or taking action.
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While it can be tempting to simply raise rents when your costs go up, as a landlord, you need to understand rent increase best practices and the Ohio rent increase laws before you do so.
There are no rent stabilization laws that govern the Ohio rent increase limit meaning landlords can raise rent as they see fit as long as it’s specified in the lease agreement and they provide adequate notice to tenants before the increase. That being said, there are other federal, state, and local laws that may apply to limit rent increases in Ohio.
In this article then, we will answer the question “How much can landlords raise rent in Ohio?” as well as delve into the relevant laws that govern rent increases in the state.
Read more: When Should a Landlord Increase the Rent?
Currently, Ohio has no state laws limiting the amount landlords can charge for rent. Additionally, local governments in Ohio are also restricted from enacting their own rent control ordinances. Instead, Ohio's Bill 430, enacted in 2022, encourages landlords to keep rent levels reasonable and to avoid unfair increases when new tenants move in.
While landlords have the freedom to set rental prices as they wish, they are generally required to provide tenants with adequate notice before implementing any rent increases.
Landlords should give 30 - 60 days written notice before raising the rent in Ohio. Additionally, landlords cannot increase the rent during the term of an existing lease agreement.
The push for rent control often arises from a shortage of affordable housing options. However, with recent laws preventing rent caps, Ohio aims to promote competition and enhance the availability of affordable housing by encouraging new construction.
According to Fair Market Rent data, Ohio ranks 40th in the nation for rental costs, with the average two-bedroom apartment priced at $884 per month. This affordability makes Ohio an attractive option for renters.
Read more: How Much Can A Landlord Raise The Rent?
When raising the rent in Ohio it is crucial for landlords to comply with relevant laws and the terms specified in lease agreements.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to effectively managing rent increases in Ohio.
Conduct research on the local rental market and current trends. Examine median rental prices and consider factors such as property location; proximity to schools, public transport, and amenities that can greatly affect what tenants are willing to pay.
Use online tools such as Rentometer or Zillow Rent Estimate for an in-depth market analysis of rentals in your area.
Landlords are typically required to give tenants written notice of any planned rent increase. The standard notice period for rent increases ranges from 7 to 60 days before the new rent takes effect. You can review the rent increase notice periods for Ohio below.
Discriminatory practices—such as increasing rent based on race, gender, religion, or familial status—are strictly prohibited. Always ensure your actions align with these legal standards to avoid potential legal repercussions.
Before implementing a rent increase, carefully examine the rental lease agreement. Confirm that it includes provisions allowing for rent increases and if it specifies any necessary notice requirements.
Landlords must follow specific clauses regarding rent increases as outlined in the lease contract. Adhering to these terms helps prevent disputes and legal complications in the future.
Discuss any proposed rent increases openly and transparently with your tenants. Providing clear reasons for the increase and inviting tenants to ask questions or express concerns can cultivate a more collaborative environment.
Stay informed with law changes, ensure compliance ,and understand tenant rights concerning potential disputes over increases. Be aware that any rent increase perceived as retaliatory or discriminatory is illegal under state law.
Read more: How to Increase the Rent: Free Rent Increase Letter
While there is no statewide statute specifying required rent increase notice periods in Ohion it is best practice to ensure you give adequate notice before increasing the rent. It is generally understood that these notices should align with termination notices.
Read more: What's A Reasonable Rent Increase in 2025?
Useful resources: Download Free Rent Increase Notice Letter Template(s)
According to ORC§ 4781.40, there are specific rules that govern rent increases in mobile home tenancies. These laws were enacted to protect both tenants and park operators by ensuring transparency and fairness in mobile home tenancies.
Below is an overview of some of the legislation that applies to rent increases in mobile homes.
During the process of raising rent in Ohio, landlords must ensure they adhere to both federal and state anti-discrimination laws.
Central to these regulations is the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. Additionally, Ohio's Fair Housing Law expands these protections to include discrimination based on ancestry, military status, and sexual orientation.
Furthermore, landlords should be aware that the federal Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) office also protects tenants from retaliation by landlords for asserting their legal rights. This includes actions such as requesting necessary repairs or participating in tenant organizations.
In cases of retaliatory or discriminatory rent increases, tenants can file a complaint with either the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These agencies can investigate a renter’s claims and pursue potential legal remedies.
Landlords in Ohio have the ability to raise rent as they see fit, but this freedom is accompanied by certain obligations and limitations. One key requirement is that landlords should ensure to provide tenants with adequate notice before any rent increase takes effect.
Moreover, both federal law and the Ohio Fair Housing Act impose specific regulations that landlords must adhere to in order to avoid legal complications. These laws not only help prevent disputes over rent increases but also promote positive relationships between landlords and their tenants.
If you’re looking to simplify the process of implementing rent increases, we recommend using property management software such as Landlord Studio. With Landlord Studio you can collect rent online, this puts you in control of the rent amount and due date, allows you to block partial payments, and easily schedule rent increases. You can even automate rent reminders and late fees, manage deposits, and collect tenant payable expenses.
Create a free account with Landlord Studio today to make your rent increases seamless.
