Ohio § 5321.02
Full text of Ohio Ohio Revised Code § 5321.02, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5321.02.
(A) Subject to section 5321.03 of the Revised Code , a landlord may not retaliate against a tenant by increasing the tenant's rent, decreasing
services that are due to the tenant, or bringing or threatening to bring an action
for possession of the tenant's premises because: (1) The tenant has complained to an appropriate governmental agency of a violation of
a building, housing, health, or safety code that is applicable to the premises, and
the violation materially affects health and safety; (2) The tenant has complained to the landlord of any violation of section 5321.04 of the Revised Code ; (3) The tenant joined with other tenants for the purpose of negotiating or dealing collectively
with the landlord on any of the terms and conditions of a rental agreement. (B) If a landlord acts in violation of division (A) of this section the tenant may: (1) Use the retaliatory action of the landlord as a defense to an action by the landlord
to recover possession of the premises; (2) Recover possession of the premises; or (3) Terminate the rental agreement. In addition, the tenant may recover from the landlord any actual damages together
with reasonable attorneys' fees. (C) Nothing in division (A) of this section shall prohibit a landlord from increasing
the rent to reflect the cost of improvements installed by the landlord in or about
the premises or to reflect an increase in other costs of operation of the premises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio § 5321.02
What does Ohio Revised Code § 5321.02 cover?
Section 5321.02 is part of the Ohio Revised Code, the codified statutory law of Ohio. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Ohio § 5321.02?
A common citation format is "Ohio Revised Code § 5321.02" (Ohio). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Ohio law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Ohio official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Ohio attorney.
How does Ohio § 5321.02 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Ohio can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Ohio.