If your landlord is not fulfilling their responsibilities to maintain the property you are renting in Ohio, you have several options:
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Request repairs in writing: If there are specific repairs that need to be made, you should make a written request to your landlord to have them fixed. Be sure to keep a copy of the request for your records.
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Withhold rent: If your landlord is not making necessary repairs, you may be entitled to withhold rent until they do. However, before taking this step, it is important to consult with an attorney to ensure that you are within your rights to do so.
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Terminate the lease: If the repairs needed are significant and your landlord is not making them, you may be able to terminate the lease without penalty. Again, it is important to speak with an attorney before taking this step.
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File a complaint: You can file a complaint with the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. This will trigger an investigation into your landlord's conduct and could result in penalties for them if it is found that they have acted improperly.
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Sue your landlord: If your landlord's failure to maintain the property has caused harm, such as injury or loss of property, you may be able to sue them for damages.
It is important to note that Ohio law requires landlords to maintain their properties in compliance with health and safety codes, and failure to do so may be grounds for legal action. However, before taking any action, it is important to consult with an attorney to ensure that you are taking the appropriate steps and protecting your rights.
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