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Ohio security deposit demand letter
Also: Ohio security deposit return deadline (30 days)
DepositLetter is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Letters are templates based on the information you provide. Laws change and local rules may differ; check the official source linked on each state page or talk to a licensed attorney or local tenant organization.
The rule in plain English
Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and possession is delivered, the landlord must deliver a written, itemized notice of any deductions together with the amount due.
Statute: Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(B)
Deadline calculator
Enter a move-out date.
Steps for tenants
Give the landlord a forwarding address in writing, or you lose the right to the extra damages and attorney's fees.
Penalty & remedies
If the landlord fails to comply, the tenant may recover the money due plus damages equal to the amount wrongfully withheld and reasonable attorney's fees (§ 5321.16(C)).
What to put in your letter
What to put in your Ohio demand letter: your forwarding address, move-out date, deposit paid, amount returned, and a short list of disputed charges. Quote Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(B) and summarize the rule in your own words: Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and possession is delivered, the landlord must deliver a written, itemize… Ask for payment by a specific date and say you will consider small claims court if needed. Mention you are sending the letter certified mail.
Going further
Ohio ties deposit return to the end of the rental agreement and return of possession. Make sure your letter’s move-out date matches the day you handed over keys. To preserve extra remedies, Ohio expects a written forwarding address—include yours prominently in the letter header. If the landlord’s deductions mention carpet or paint, connect them to normal wear unless you caused specific damage. Reasonable attorney’s fees language in the statute is for courts, not threats in your letter.
Read more about what to do if your landlord ignores your demand letter.
Sources
Last checked: October 20, 2026
Compare with other states: security deposit return deadline by state · calculate your due date.
FAQ
How long does a Ohio landlord have to return a deposit?
30 days under Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(B). Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and possession is delivered, the landlord must deliver a written, itemized notice of any deductions together with the amount due.
What should Ohio tenants do before move-out?
Give the landlord a forwarding address in writing, or you lose the right to the extra damages and attorney's fees.
Can DepositLetter cite other laws for me?
We only cite the verified statute and rule on this page—not extra penalties unless listed above.
How do I preselect this state in the tool?
Use the button below or visit the home page with your state in the dropdown.
Is this legal advice?
DepositLetter is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Letters are templates based on the information you provide. Laws change and local rules may differ; check the official source linked on each state page or talk to a licensed attorney or local tenant organization.