Tenants must be aware of local rent increase legislation in order to safeguard their rights and make appropriate financial plans as rental markets around the nation continue to change.
Ohio, which is well-known for having a varied housing stock, has laws dictating when and how landlords can raise rent. Tenants in Ohio must remain informed as the new regulations take effect in 2024.
This article gives a thorough rundown of Ohio’s legislation pertaining to rent increases, along with important data, insights particular to individual cities, and helpful tips for renters.
Ohio Laws Concerning Rent Increases
State statutes and local ordinances control Ohio’s laws regarding rent increases. The amount and frequency of rent increases that a landlord is permitted to make are generally uncapped by Ohio rent control legislation. There are, nevertheless, a number of laws and policies that safeguard tenants.
Rules for the Entire State
- Ohio does not implement rent control rules on a state-wide basis. Accordingly, subject to lease agreements and local laws, landlords are free to raise rent whenever they see fit.
- Landlords must notify tenants in writing of any changes to their rent as required by Ohio law. According on the rental agreement and the length of the lease, different notice periods are needed.
Terms of a Lease Agreement
- Fixed-length Leases: The rent for a lease that has a set length, such as a year, usually doesn’t change over that time. Unless the lease agreement specifies otherwise, rent increases are not permitted until the end of the lease period.
- Month-to-month Leases: Landlords are required to give at least 30 days’ written notice prior to raising the rent on month-to-month leases.
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New Advancements in 2024
Tenants and landlords may be impacted by various adjustments and modifications Ohio is putting into place for its rent increase laws in 2024. What you should be aware of is this.
New State Laws
Extended Notice Times: Landlords will need to give 60 days’ notice at the very least for any rent increase beginning in 2024, as opposed to the prior 30 days. Tenants will have more time as a result to modify their spending plans or, if needed, look for other housing.
Mandatory Written Justification: With any rent increase surpassing ten percent of the current rent, landlords must now submit a written justification.
Information about the relationship between the increase and any upgrades made to the property or other pertinent circumstances must be included in this justification.
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Regional laws
In relation to rent hikes, a few Ohio cities have passed municipal legislation that provide more safeguards or stipulate particular requirements:
Columbus: Leasing companies must give at least 90 days’ notice before raising rent by 15% under new city regulations. Moreover, Columbus requires landlords to enlighten renters about tenant aid programs offered locally.
Cincinnati: Cincinnati has limited the frequency and magnitude of rent increases in high-demand areas through the implementation of a “rent stabilization” program for a few community groups.
Cleveland: Tenants are now required to provide proof demonstrating the need for the increase for property upkeep or improvements in order to justify any rent increase above 10% in Cleveland.
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Rights and Protections for Tenants
Comprehending the rights of tenants is vital for skillfully managing increases in rent. Tenants have the following important rights and safeguards to be aware of:
Right to a Notification in Writing
Every rent increase must be disclosed in writing to tenants. Under the provisions of the lease agreement and any applicable state or municipal legislation, this notification must be delivered.
Allowance to Contest Unjustified Raising
Tenants may contest an increase in rent if they believe it to be exorbitant or not in line with local or state laws. You can accomplish this by:
- Tenants may attempt to bargain with their landlord for a more fair sum by discussing the anticipated increase with them.
- Legal Action: Should tenants feel that the rise breaches their lease or local laws, they may consult an attorney and maybe file a lawsuit.
To Conclude
Rent increase laws in Ohio are always changing, thus in order to safeguard tenant rights and maintain financial stability, one must have a thorough awareness of them.
State laws establish a broad framework, but it’s important to be aware of local rules that might provide more protections. Tenants may navigate the rental market with confidence and promote fair renting practices by being aware of the most recent changes and exercising their rights.
When it comes to controlling your home costs, keep in mind that information is power.
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