Ohio security deposit deductions should focus on past due rent or damages caused by tenant noncompliance. Normal wear and tear is ordinary use from living in the rental, not damage beyond normal use.
Why normal wear matters
If the landlord claims damage, ask whether the charge is really for tenant-caused damage or ordinary aging and use.
The distinction matters because Ohio's deduction rule is tied to tenant noncompliance, not routine turnover.
Normal-wear arguments are stronger when you tie them to the itemized written notice. If the landlord says "cleaning," "repairs," or "damage," compare that charge to your photos, move-in records, move-out records, and the actual wording in the notice.
Examples that often need a closer look
- ordinary carpet wear from normal walking
- faded paint from age
- small scuffs from ordinary use
- worn finish from normal use
- routine cleaning that is not tied to tenant-caused damage
What proof helps
Save move-in photos, move-out photos, videos, cleaning records, repair requests, and the landlord's itemized deduction notice.
Compare the claimed deduction to what the unit looked like before and after your tenancy.
What to do next
- What can an Ohio landlord deduct?
- Ohio security deposit evidence guide
- Ohio security deposit demand letter
The free guide helps you separate ordinary use from disputed damage. The paid system gives you Ohio letters that connect the ordinary-wear issue to the itemized notice, condition proof, and amount owed.
Get the Deposit Recovery System
Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.