What are my legal obligations as a landlord when it comes to maintaining my rental property in Ohio?

As a landlord in Ohio, you have legal obligations to maintain your rental property in a safe and habitable condition for your tenants. These obligations are outlined in the Ohio Landlord Tenant Law and include the following:

1. Providing a safe and habitable dwelling: You are required to provide your tenants with a rental property that is safe and habitable. This means that the property must be free from hazards such as mold, lead, and other environmental hazards that could harm the health of your tenants. You must also provide functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in the rental unit.
2. Making necessary repairs: You are responsible for making necessary repairs to the rental property. This includes repairing or replacing broken appliances, plumbing fixtures, and other equipment necessary for the proper functioning of the property. You are responsible for fixing any structural problems as well, such as leaky roofs or cracks in the foundation.
3. Maintaining common areas: If the rental property has common areas, such as hallways, entryways, or other shared spaces, you are responsible for maintaining those areas in a safe and habitable condition.
4. Maintaining utilities: You are responsible for providing working utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water. You must also maintain the heating system throughout the winter, ensuring that the temperature in the rental unit is at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 62 degrees Fahrenheit at night, unless otherwise agreed upon with the tenant in writing.
5. Abiding by building codes: You are required to abide by all applicable building codes and regulations, including complying with local health and safety codes.

If you fail to meet these obligations, your tenants may have legal recourse, such as withholding rent or taking legal action against you to compel you to make necessary repairs. It is important to maintain open channels of communication with your tenants and to address any concerns they have promptly.

Exceptions to these obligations may exist if the tenant is responsible for causing damage to the property, or if the tenant has waived their right to certain repairs or maintenance in writing. If you have questions or concerns about your legal obligations as landlord in Ohio, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a licensed attorney.