Columbus, OH Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum heat
- 70°F when outside is 0°F
- Minimum hot water temp
- 110°F at fixtures
- Utility shutoffs
- Barred except repairs/emergencies
- Max fine
- $1,000/day, org up to $5,000
- Appeal body
- Property Maintenance Appeals Board
Summary
Columbus's Housing Code sets numeric habitability minimums for rentals, including heat to 70°F, 110°F hot water, and working kitchen and bathroom fixtures in every dwelling unit.
Every dwelling and dwelling unit shall have heating facilities which are properly installed, vented and maintained in safe operating condition, and are capable of safely and adequately heating all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and water closet compartments located therein to a temperature of at least seventy (70) degrees Fahrenheit when the outside temperature is zero (0) degrees Fahrenheit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 | Form Based Code: ?).
Full Breakdown
Title 45's Housing Code spells out concrete rental standards rather than a vague fitness test. Heating facilities must keep every habitable room at least 70°F when it's 0°F outside (§4523.05), water heaters must deliver at least 110°F at every sink, tub or shower (§4521.05), and every unit needs a working kitchen sink and private bathroom with hot and cold running water (§4521.01, §4521.02). Owners may not shut off any required service except for actual repairs or emergencies approved by the director (§4525.06), and no owner may rent out a unit that isn't clean, sanitary and fit for occupancy (§4525.07). The Department enforces through Chapter 4509 notices of violation, with appeal rights to the Property Maintenance Appeals Board.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor of the first degree: up to $1,000 fine and 180 days jail per violation; each day of continued violation is a separate offense, and organizations face up to $5,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot must a rental be kept in Columbus?
Can a Columbus landlord shut off my water or heat?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Columbus
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