Building Codes & Habitability — Ohio
Warranty of habitability, repair obligations, and city rental programs
State Habitability Standard
Ohio Revised Code §5321.02 / §5321.04 — landlord duty to maintain premises
ORC §§ 5321.02, 5321.04, 5321.07, 5321.15
Minimum Habitability Requirements
- Comply with applicable building, housing, health, and safety codes
- Make all repairs and do what is necessary to keep premises in fit and habitable condition
- Keep common areas safe and sanitary
- Maintain electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, and other facilities
- Maintain heating facilities in good working order
- Working smoke alarms inside each bedroom and outside sleeping areas
- Carbon monoxide alarms where required
- Supply running water and reasonable amounts of hot water
Repair Obligations & Tenant Remedies
30
Days Landlord Has to Repair
Before tenant may use repair-and-deduct remedy
Rent Withholding
Rent withholding permitted under state law for serious habitability failures
City-Level Rental Programs
Some cities require rental registration, periodic inspections, or have specific habitability ordinances beyond state law. Enter your city to check for a local program.
Known Ohio cities in our database: check major cities in Ohio above for city-specific programs.
Governing Statute
Ohio Revised Code §§ 5321.01 et seq.
This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.