Tips for Tenants is a column on renters’ rights from Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio that offers guidance to renters on navigating common issues.
In Ohio, the law requires landlords to provide a “three-day notice” if they wish to start the eviction process. This does NOT mean landlords can take matters into their own hands after giving you the three-day notice. A landlord cannot threaten to kick you out, change your locks, shut off your utilities, or set your property out to try to get you to move. If your landlord tries to do any of these things, you should talk to an attorney immediately. There are legal steps you can take to stop your landlord from putting you out without a court order. You have the right to remain in the dwelling until and unless a judge has issued an actual order stating a time and date by which you must vacate. No court can issue an eviction order without a lawsuit being filed and it is 100% illegal for landlords to do a self-help eviction.
What if my landlord changes my locks without a court order?
You should seek legal assistance immediately if your landlord changes locks, cuts utility services, throws out belongings, or does anything to interfere with your right to remain in the premises. You should also call local law enforcement.
You should keep track of any damages you may have. For example, if your landlord turns off your water, keep receipts for any water you had to buy and any traveling you had to make to take a shower. Keep track of any money out of your pocket. You may be able to recover money from your landlord if he or she tries to put you out.
To see if you qualify for free legal assistance, call the intake line for Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio at 844-302-1800. Our intake line is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed for lunch between 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m.
