Ohio does not have any statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws in 2025. This means there is no legal limit on how much a landlord can increase your rent when your lease is up for renewal or, in the case of a month-to-month agreement, with proper notice.
The state also prohibits cities and towns from enacting their own rent control ordinances, following a 2021 law that banned local rent regulation.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
Although there is no cap on the amount of a rent increase, landlords must provide advance written notice before raising rent. For month-to-month leases, Ohio law requires at least 30 days’ notice before the new rent takes effect.
For fixed-term leases (such as a one-year lease), the rent amount is generally locked in for the duration of the lease, and increases can only occur at renewal unless the lease specifically allows mid-term increases. For week-to-week leases, a 7-day notice is required.
When Can Rent Be Increased?
Month-to-Month Lease: Landlords can raise rent at any time, provided they give at least 30 days’ written notice.
Fixed-Term Lease: Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease agreement allows it. After the lease expires, the landlord can set a new rent amount for renewal.
Week-to-Week Lease: Requires only 7 days’ notice for a rent increase.
No Limit on Amount or Frequency
Ohio landlords may increase rent by any amount and as often as they wish, as long as they provide the required notice and are not violating any terms of the lease.
There is no statutory maximum or frequency restriction. However, extremely large or sudden rent hikes could be challenged if they are clearly retaliatory (for example, if they closely follow a tenant complaint).
Lease Agreements and Fixed Rent
A fixed-term lease (such as a year-long lease) protects tenants from rent increases during the lease period. Rent can only be raised at the end of the term, unless the lease specifically allows for mid-term adjustments. Tenants seeking stability should negotiate for a fixed-term lease with clear rent provisions.
Good Faith Requirement
Even without rent control, Ohio law requires landlords to act in good faith. They must provide reasonable notice and fair terms, and cannot use rent increases to retaliate against tenants for exercising their legal rights.
Recent and Proposed Legislation
While there have been discussions about introducing stricter controls or transparency requirements for rent increases (such as Bill 430), as of 2025, there is still no statewide cap or local rent control allowed. Any changes in this area would require new legislation.
What Tenants Should Do
Review your lease: Understand when and how rent can be increased.
Demand written notice: Verbal notices are not sufficient under Ohio law.
Know your rights: If you believe a rent increase is retaliatory or if you did not receive proper notice, seek legal advice or contact a local tenant advocacy group.
Plan ahead: If you receive a rent increase notice, use the 30-day window to decide whether to accept, negotiate, or seek alternative housing.
Table
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Limit on Amount | When Can Rent Be Raised? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 30 days | No cap | Any time with notice |
| Fixed-Term (Year) | At renewal | No cap | Only at lease end (unless lease allows) |
| Week-to-Week | 7 days | No cap | Any time with notice |
Ohio tenants should be aware that landlords have broad discretion to raise rents, but must provide proper written notice. There is no limit on the amount or frequency of increases, making it important for tenants to understand their lease terms and stay informed about their rights.
Sources
[1] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/ohio-rent-control-laws/
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-ohio
[3] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-ohio
[4] https://www.doorloop.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent
[5] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/ohio-tenant-landlord-law/
