What is the eviction process in Ohio?

1. Statutory Framework. Ohio's eviction (forcible entry and detainer) action is governed by Ohio Rev. Code Ch. 1923, with the Landlord-Tenant Act at Ch. 5321.

2. Pre-Filing Notice. Under R.C. § 1923.04, the landlord must serve a 3-day notice to leave the premises before filing, regardless of nonpayment or breach grounds. The notice must contain the statutory language. Lease termination for material noncompliance also requires a 30-day notice to cure under R.C. § 5321.11. Month-to-month no-cause termination requires 30 days under R.C. § 5321.17.

3. Filing the Complaint. File in the municipal or county court of the county/municipality where the property sits. Filing fee varies (approximately $123-$185).

4. Tenant Answer / Default. Tenant must answer within 28 days, but the First Cause (possession) hearing is set within 30 days of filing and tenant may appear without a written answer.

5. Hearing. Two-cause process: First Cause hearing for possession is summary. Tenant may raise implied warranty of habitability under R.C. § 5321.04, retaliation (R.C. § 5321.02), rent escrow (R.C. § 5321.07), and Fair Housing Act discrimination.

6. Writ of Possession. After judgment for landlord, the court issues a writ of restitution. Bailiff posts a "red tag" notice (typically 5-10 days) before set-out (R.C. § 1923.14).

7. Self-Help Prohibition. R.C. § 5321.15 prohibits the landlord from changing locks, removing tenant belongings, or shutting off utilities. Violations entitle the tenant to actual damages plus reasonable attorney's fees.

8. CARES Act. Federally-backed properties require a 30-day notice to vacate under 15 U.S.C. § 9058 in addition to Ohio's 3-day notice.

9. Just-Cause. Ohio has no statewide just-cause; some Ohio cities (e.g., Cleveland Pay-to-Stay) provide procedural protections for nonpayment evictions.

This is legal information, not legal advice.