Does your landlord in Ohio legally have to provide A/C and heat? Here’s what the law says

Summers in Ohio are usually pretty mild, but when winter rolls around, the weather can get very icy.

With that said, cooling and warming your home can get difficult and expensive. But what if your rental doesn’t have AC or heat? Is that even legal in Ohio? Here’s what to know:

Does your landlord legally have to provide AC and heat in Ohio?

According to the law, landlords in Ohio don’t have to provide renters with A/C. But renters should know their rights regarding heat in Ohio. Here’s what to know:

Ohio law states that heat is legally required and landlords must provide “reasonable heat at all times” unless there’s a unit that isn’t made for heat.

Additionally, if you do have a rental with A/C, though, the landlord must repair it if it gets broken.

What your landlord has to provide by law

According to Ohio law (Section 5321.04), landlords must also do the following:

• The landlord is responsible for maintaining the building structure.
• They must keep the electric and plumbing systems in running order.
• The landlord must make any repairs that are needed to keep the space in “habitable condition.” This includes water, A/C units, appliances and elevators.
• They must keep all common areas “safe and sanitary.”
• A landlord is responsible for meeting all local ordinances and minimum safety standards.

Are you surprised by this story? Let me know your thoughts in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

Chelsea Madden

The Telegraph

Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.