Rent increases can be a significant concern for tenants, especially in a fluctuating housing market. In Ohio, landlords have the legal right to raise rent, but they must follow specific rules to ensure fairness and compliance with state laws.
In 2025, Ohio’s rent increase regulations remain largely landlord-friendly, but tenants still have legal protections that help prevent unfair or discriminatory rent hikes.
Are There Rent Control Laws in Ohio?
Unlike some states, Ohio does not have statewide rent control laws. This means that landlords can generally set and increase rent at their discretion, as long as they provide proper notice and do not engage in discriminatory or retaliatory practices. However, local municipalities may impose additional restrictions, so renters need to check their city’s specific ordinances.
Legal Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
Under Ohio law, landlords must provide tenants with adequate notice before increasing rent. The required notice period depends on the type of lease agreement:
- Month-to-Month Lease: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent.
- Fixed-Term Lease: Rent cannot be increased until the lease term ends unless the agreement specifically allows for rent adjustments.
This means that if you are on a month-to-month lease, your landlord must inform you of any rent increase at least one full rental period in advance.
Limits on Rent Increases
Because Ohio does not have rent control, there are no strict limits on how much a landlord can increase rent. However, a landlord cannot raise rent in a manner that is considered discriminatory, retaliatory, or in bad faith. For example:
- Discrimination: Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot increase rent based on a tenant’s race, gender, disability, religion, national origin, or family status.
- Retaliation: Ohio law prohibits landlords from increasing rent as retaliation against tenants who have reported code violations, joined a tenant union, or exercised their legal rights.
If you suspect that a rent increase is being used as retaliation or discrimination, you may have legal grounds to challenge it.
Fair Housing Protections for Renters
Ohio follows federal fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination in rental practices. In addition to the federally protected classes, some Ohio cities have expanded tenant protections, such as including sexual orientation or source of income (such as housing vouchers) as protected categories.
If you believe that a rent increase is discriminatory, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
What to Do if You Can’t Afford a Rent Increase
If your landlord raises the rent and you cannot afford the new rate, consider the following options:
- Negotiate with Your Landlord: Some landlords may be willing to lower the increase or offer alternative payment plans.
- Check Local Housing Assistance Programs: Ohio offers rental assistance programs for low-income tenants. Contact your local housing authority for available resources.
- Consider Moving: If the increase is too high, you may need to seek more affordable housing.
Eviction and Lease Termination Due to Rent Increases
If a tenant refuses to pay the increased rent, a landlord can choose not to renew the lease or start eviction proceedings. However, landlords must follow proper eviction protocols, which include:
- Providing a written notice to vacate (typically 30 days for month-to-month tenants)
- Filing an eviction lawsuit if the tenant refuses to leave
- Following all due process requirements set by Ohio law
If you receive an eviction notice, you may be able to challenge it in court if the rent increase was retaliatory or discriminatory.
Conclusion
Ohio remains a landlord-friendly state with no rent control, allowing property owners to increase rent freely as long as they provide proper notice and avoid discriminatory or retaliatory practices. Tenants, however, still have important legal protections under fair housing laws. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you navigate rent increases and seek assistance if needed. If you face an unreasonable or unfair rent hike, consider negotiating with your landlord, seeking local resources, or consulting legal aid for further guidance.
