Ohio Revised Code §5321.16 governs residential security deposits statewide. Deposits exceeding $50 or one month's rent (whichever is greater) earn 5 percent annual interest after six months. Landlords must itemize and return within 30 days.
ORC §5321.16 sets the statewide residential security deposit rule. There is no statutory cap, but deposits over $50 or one month's rent (whichever is greater) held more than six months must accrue interest at 5 percent per year on the excess. Within 30 days of termination, the landlord must return the deposit with an itemized written statement of any deductions for unpaid rent or tenant-caused damage. The tenant must provide a forwarding address. Columbus has not enacted a stricter local cap or registration requirement; the state statute fully controls. Wrongful withholding triggers statutory double damages plus attorney fees.
Wrongful withholding entitles the tenant to recover twice the wrongfully withheld amount plus reasonable attorney fees under ORC §5321.16(C). Failure to itemize within 30 days waives the landlord's deduction claims.
Columbus, OH
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Columbus, OH
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