Evictions are an important, although often unpleasant, part of managing or owning property in Cleveland, Ohio. The Buckeye State averages between 70,000 and 100,000 evictions per year, meaning even the most cautious landlords will eventually face this process.
Landlords and property managers should understand the eviction process. Housing law varies state by state, and we have the details on laws that apply to Ohio. Read on to learn how to properly handle an eviction in Cleveland.
How to Properly Evict a Tenant in Ohio
Landlords can evict a tenant in Ohio because they violated the lease. Before the eviction process can begin, the landlord should terminate the tenancy. They should also notify the tenant to vacate the unit.
If the tenant fails to leave the unit, the court system can remove the tenant. Before you can file for eviction with a court in Ohio, you will need to provide one of two types of notice for termination.
Notice for Termination With Cause
One type of notice provides a reason for ending the lease. Notice of termination with cause usually results from a tenant failing to pay rent. Or, they may have violated a rental agreement.
Tenants can also be removed for selling or using illegal drugs in the apartment. Whatever the reason, the eviction process requires that you must provide a three-day notice.
The notice must include language that informs the tenant that they have three days to move out. If at the end of those three days the tenant has not vacated, the landlord can file an eviction notice with a court.
Notice for Termination Without Cause
In cases where the landlord does not find legal cause to evict a tenant, the landlord must wait until the term ends. Even if you wait, you may still be required to give notice to the tenant.
Removal of the Tenant
As the landlord, you are not the agent that forcibly removes a tenant. You may be eager to find a better tenant, but there is a legal process that must be followed.
Once the tenant does not move out after receiving written notice to leave, the landlord can file an eviction notice in court. If the landlord wins that suit, a judge will authorize a constable or sheriff to evict the tenant. The peace officers are trained in how to properly evict a tenant.
Ohio does not have laws on how to handle abandoned property. It is expected that landlords will take reasonable steps to allow the tenant to reclaim their possessions. If the former tenant does not return for his or her property, then the landlord can dispose of the abandoned property.
Learn More About the Evictions Process
Evictions are a straightforward process, but landlords must follow certain rules and guidelines. Never attempt to forcibly remove a tenant. Doing so could potentially leave you financially liable.
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