ORC § 5321.16(B): Deposit deductions are limited to past-due rent and damages arising from the tenant's noncompliance with ORC § 5321.05 or the rental agreement

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Reviewed: 2026-08-11

How sources are checked →

Deadline context

30 days

Possible remedy

Amount due + equal damages + attorney fees

Primary statute

ORC § 5321.16 (Landlord-Tenant Law)

Official section source

What the cited source addresses

Deposit deductions are limited to past-due rent and damages arising from the tenant's noncompliance with ORC § 5321.05 or the rental agreement.

Read the current official section

How to review this source with your facts

Document ordinary aging versus true damage with photos.
Challenge deductions for paint, carpet wear, and routine turnover items.
Review age, prior condition, repairability, actual cost, and betterment when relevant under the controlling rule.

Frequently asked questions

Questions to compare with the current source before using the citation in a letter or filing.

What does ORC § 5321.16(B) address?

Deposit deductions are limited to past-due rent and damages arising from the tenant's noncompliance with ORC § 5321.05 or the rental agreement. Open the current official text to check coverage, definitions, and exceptions for your situation.

How long does a Ohio landlord have to return the deposit?

30 days after termination of rental agreement and delivery of possession (30 days).

Could a penalty or other remedy apply?

The amount due plus damages equal to the amount wrongfully withheld and reasonable attorney fees. Check the source's required facts, conditions, notices, defenses, and remedy language before relying on it.

Next steps

Check the current source, calculate the relevant dates, and organize the records you may reference.

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