Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.15 prohibits Cleveland landlords from using lockouts, utility shutoffs, or other self-help measures to force tenants out, with statutory damages payable to displaced tenants.
ORC 5321.15 bars any Cleveland residential landlord from changing locks, removing doors or windows, shutting off water, gas, electricity, or otherwise rendering the unit uninhabitable to coerce a tenant to leave outside the formal eviction process. Tenants subjected to these tactics may recover all damages caused by the action plus reasonable attorney fees through Cleveland Housing Court, which has dedicated jurisdiction over Cleveland landlord-tenant disputes. The statute applies regardless of lease status or rent delinquency, and tenants can also seek injunctive restoration of utilities the same day.
Self-help eviction triggers actual damages, attorney fees, possible criminal trespass charges, and emergency restoration orders from Cleveland Housing Court Judge.
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