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1. What are the landlord's responsibilities?

The landlord has the responsibility to keep the structure in a safe and sanitary condition, in compliance with state and local housing, and health and safety codes. In general, this means that the landlord must keep in working order:

• Appliances
• Electrical
• Heating
• Plumbing
• Sanitary
• Ventilating and air-conditioning fixtures

There must be running water, reasonable amounts of hot water and heat. In most cases, waste receptacles must also be provided. The landlord must give the tenant reasonable notice of an intent to enter the premises for any reason and must not harass the tenant with unreasonable or repeated demands of entry.

2. What are the tenant's responsibilities?

The tenant has the responsibility to keep the premises clean and sanitary. 

The tenant must: 

• Not damage property beyond normal wear
• Use electrical equipment properly
• Not disturb the neighbors
• Allow the landlord to inspect, repair and maintain the premises, after giving reasonable notice

3. What can the tenant do if the landlord does not meet his / her responsibilities?

If the tenant believes that the landlord has not met his/her responsibilities under the law, there are a number of options available. A tenant must make a written complaint to the landlord by certified mail to rectify the problem and give thirty (30) days in which to do so before any of the remedies may be instituted.

The remedies may be found in Section 5321.07 of the Ohio Revised Code. They include rent deposit actions, lease termination or a request for a court order to repair. There are, however, conditions the tenant must meet before taking advantage of these remedies - see Section 5321.07 of the Ohio Revised Code.

4. What can the landlord do if the tenant does not meet his / her responsibilities?

Of course, the tenant has the responsibility to pay the rent on time, maintain the rental unit properly and fulfill the obligations under the law.

Generally, if the tenant does not meet these responsibilities, the landlord may terminate the rental agreement and take action to evict the tenant. The court can also order the tenant to pay the landlord for past due rent and damages to the premises.

Adequate notice to the tenant to comply with the requirements of the law and allowing time to repair the situation should be given before using any other option. A three (3) day notification prior to filing an action for eviction may include notification to the tenant of their rights. A full explanation of the procedures can be found in Chapter 5321.07 of the Ohio Revised Code.