Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Understand when a Landlord must return a Tenant's security deposit.

Tenant's Rights

Under Ohio law, your landlord must return your security deposit within thirty days from the date you vacated your rental home so long as:

(1) You paid all rental amounts that were due;

(2) You did not damage the property beyond “normal wear and tear”; and

(3) You gave your landlord a mailing address where the security deposit could be sent.

Q: What is “normal wear and tear”?

Any rental home will incur some wear and tear. Some examples include worn carpets, faded blinds, or scuffed paint. Your landlord should not charge you for this routine property maintenance.

Q: Can your landlord use your security deposit to cover past-due rent?

Yes. If you owe back rent when you vacate your rental home, your landlord can use your security deposit to cover any unpaid rent. However, your landlord must provide you with a written notice detailing why your security deposit is being withheld. Additionally, your landlord must return any amount not used for damages or past due rent.

Q: What can I do if my landlord does not return my security deposit?

If you have paid your rent, not damaged the rental property beyond “normal wear and tear”, and provided a forwarding address, your landlord must return your security deposit. An attorney may be able to recover your security deposit by sending a Demand Letter to your landlord on your behalf.