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A landlord requires a legally binding contract to ensure that the property is used as per the rules inside. That ensures the tenant understands what's required of them. Let's learn more about the lease now:

Lease Types

Put simply, an Ohio standard residential lease agreement is completed by the landlord after the rental application is provided by the tenant. It's a contract signed by both parties and states the rules associated with living in the unit, such as monthly rent payments, security deposits, and more.

Commercial agreements are between the landlord and business entity and focus on the rules associated with that commercial space.

What to Include

Ohio lease agreements must include certain provisions according to Ohio landlord-tenant laws. The rental agreement for a commercial or residential space should include:

Rent

There's no rent control available for tenants in Ohio, which means the property owner or landlord sets each month's rent. Generally, you've get the last say about increasing rent and charging amounts you think are appropriate.

Security Deposit

There's no cap on the amount a landlord can request as a security deposit for the property. Leases longer than six months with a security deposits maximum of $50 or more come with an interest payment of five percent, which is paid to the tenant when the lease ends.

However, the owner only has 30 days to return the security deposit after the lease period ends and the tenant vacates the premises. Itemized bills are required to show whatever portion wasn't returned.

Repairs and Right to Entry

The landlord is required to respect the tenant's right to privacy and can only enter the property after twenty-four hours' notice. However, gaining entry for maintenance is appropriate without advance notice during reasonable times. This doesn't have to be included in the Ohio rental lease, but it's a good idea to do so.

Lease Termination

Property managers can terminate a lease if the tenant:

  • Fails to comply with deadlines
  • Violates the agreement
  • Conducts illegal activities
  • Many other things

However, the landlord must go through the right channels. Therefore, they must:

  • File a complaint through the justice court and pay fees
  • Receive a notice to quit or vacate

Then, the tenant must be served, wait for the eviction hearing, and show up to present their case. Generally, they get their documents about seven to 23 days before the hearing.

Mandatory Disclosure

The following required disclosures are necessary for some or all Ohio rental lease agreements:

  • Landlord's Name and Address - Landlord-tenant laws require the owner or manager to disclose their names and addresses for future legal demands and notices to be sent by the tenant and delivered accordingly. It applies to every rental unit in the area.
  • Lead-based Paint - This is required for every rental unit built before 1978. Federal law requires you to disclose the risks of lead paint to potential tenants. The tenant must receive an EPA-approved pamphlet about the dangers, and the landlord must provide a disclosure form to the tenant, generally with the lease.

Build Your Own

It's often hard to create a lease agreement that meets all the specifications for Ohio rentals. Therefore, you often require the assistance of property management software. DoorLoop lets you upload a free form, customize it, and auto-fill it with all of your information! This works for an:

  • Ohio sublease agreement
  • Ohio rental application
  • Ohio roommate agreement

eSignature

Signing a lease can set the tone for the remainder of your lease term, giving your tenants the first impression of what living in your property is like, so it's a good call to make sure your process goes as smoothly and easily as possible.

With DoorLoop, eSignatures can get done in a matter of seconds. Lease templates can be saved and reused, with tenants' information autopopulating when a new lease is created. That brings the entire lease setup and signing process down to just a couple of clicks!

DoorLoop connects with well-known listing sites like Zillow, Trulia, Hotpads, Apartments.com, and more so that you can attract the best tenants on autopilot. You can also make sure you're bringing in the most reliable tenants by screening your prospects in seconds through an integration with TransUnion.

For more info about DoorLoop, learn more or schedule a free demo.

DoorLoop also offers tenant screening with one click, so you can quickly pick the best tenants for the property. When you upload and customize the agreement, send it directly to your prospects and let them sign it electronically. If you're interested in learning more, request a demo from DoorLoop today!

FAQs

How long is a rental agreement in Ohio?

The lease term is only one year for Ohio residents. This fixed-term ensures that the tenant and landlord agree on everything. While leases could be longer and valid, they have to comply with additional rules.

Is a rental contract binding in Ohio?

Yes, these contracts are legally binding for both the tenant and landlord. However, it must meet legal requirements to become enforceable and has to be signed by each party.

Can leases automatically renew in Ohio?

Yes, the tenant and landlord can agree to automatically renew the lease if there's a renewal clause.

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David is the co-founder & CMO of DoorLoop, a best-selling author, legal CLE speaker, and real estate investor. When he's not hanging with his three children, he's writing articles here!