Short answer: In Ohio, renters insurance covers your belongings, liability and loss of use, which your landlord's policy doesn't. Under Ohio Revised Code 5321.16, the landlord must give you a written, itemized notice of any deductions along with the amount due within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and you deliver possession. You must give the landlord a forwarding address in writing. Deposits above the greater of $50 or one month's rent earn 5% annual interest on the excess if you stay six months or more.
This guide is general information for Ohio renters. It isn't legal advice, and local ordinances can add rules. Your lease and policy wording control.
Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. A renters policy (HO-4) covers personal property, personal liability and loss of use; flood is generally excluded (see FloodSmart). Coverage basics: renters insurance. Roommates: whether renters insurance covers roommates. Liability: how much renters liability coverage you need.
Step 1: Interest on larger deposits
Under R.C. 5321.16(A), any deposit above $50 or one month's rent, whichever is greater, earns interest on the excess at 5% per year if you stay six months or more. The landlord computes and pays it annually.
Step 2: The 30-day itemized notice
Under R.C. 5321.16(B):
- The landlord may apply the deposit to past-due rent and damages caused by your noncompliance with R.C. 5321.05 or the rental agreement.
- Any deduction must be itemized in a written notice delivered with the amount due within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and you deliver possession.
- You must give the landlord a forwarding address in writing. If you don't, you're not entitled to damages or attorney's fees under division (C).
Step 3: Remedies
Under R.C. 5321.16(C), if the landlord doesn't comply, you may recover the money due plus damages equal to the amount wrongfully withheld, and reasonable attorney's fees.
Step 4: Storm and water risks
Ohio renters face severe storms, tornadoes and winter freezes. Check that your policy covers wind and water damage to belongings, and ask about a sewer backup endorsement. Flood is generally excluded; see FloodSmart.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Ohio.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an Ohio landlord have to return a security deposit?
Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and you deliver possession, with an itemized notice of any deductions.
Do I need to give my Ohio landlord a forwarding address?
Yes, in writing. Without it, you can't recover damages or attorney's fees under R.C. 5321.16(C).
Do Ohio security deposits earn interest?
Yes, 5% a year on the amount above $50 or one month's rent, whichever is greater, if you stay six months or more.
What can I recover if an Ohio landlord wrongfully keeps my deposit?
The amount due, plus damages equal to the amount wrongfully withheld, and reasonable attorney's fees.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.