What are my rights as a landlord in Ohio when it comes to evicting a tenant who hasn't been paying their rent?

As a landlord in Ohio, you have certain rights to evict a tenant who is not paying rent. However, you must follow certain procedures and laws to ensure that the eviction is legal.

First, you should make sure that the tenant is in fact delinquent in their rent payments. You can do this by reviewing your lease agreement and any payment records. If the tenant has not paid rent in accordance with the lease agreement, you may begin the eviction process.

To start the eviction process, you must provide the tenant with written notice that they are in breach of the lease agreement and that you intend to file for eviction if they do not make payment within a certain period of time. In Ohio, this period of time is typically three days, but may vary depending on the specific terms of the lease. The notice should be sent via certified mail to ensure that it is received by the tenant.

If the tenant does not make payment within the specified time period, you may file for eviction with the appropriate court in your jurisdiction. This involves filling out and filing an eviction complaint, which will be served to the tenant by a court official. The tenant will then have an opportunity to respond to the complaint and appear at a hearing.

If the court finds in your favor, it will issue an eviction order, which allows you to regain possession of the property. You may then take steps to remove the tenant and their belongings from the property if necessary.

It is important to note that Ohio law prohibits landlords from using "self-help" evictions, such as changing the locks or removing the tenant's belongings without a court order. If you attempt to evict a tenant in this manner, you may be subject to legal action by the tenant.

Additionally, there may be certain exceptions to your right to evict a tenant, such as if the tenant is protected by certain federal or state laws, such as the Fair Housing Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you have any concerns about whether the eviction may violate these laws, you should consult with an attorney for guidance.

Overall, while evicting a tenant can be a difficult and time-consuming process, Ohio law provides landlords with the right to evict tenants who are not fulfilling their obligations under the lease agreement. By following the proper procedures and working with an experienced attorney if necessary, you can take steps to protect your rights as a landlord and regain possession of your property.