Ohio Eviction Notice for Unpaid Rent

What Ohio law says

• R.C. 1923.04(A): the notice must be given three or more days before beginning the action.
• Delivery options in 1923.04(A): certified mail, return receipt requested; handing a written copy to the defendant in person; or leaving it at the defendant's usual place of abode or at the premises.
• Residential notices must conspicuously say: You are being asked to leave the premises. If you do not leave, an eviction action may be initiated against you.
• The notice must also include: If you are in doubt regarding your legal rights and obligations as a tenant, it is recommended that you seek legal assistance.

Steps for a landlord

• Prepare a written notice with the required wording, placed conspicuously.
• Deliver it by certified mail, in person, or at the home or premises.
• Wait at least three days before filing.
• Keep proof of delivery.

What to put in the notice

• The names of the tenants and the address of the rental
• The amount of rent owed and the rental period it covers
• The number of days the tenant has to pay or move out, and the date that period ends
• The date, how the notice was delivered, and who delivered it
• Your name and contact details, with your signature

Things to watch

• The statute text we read does not say whether the three days are calendar or business days; a state training deck notes this as an open question.
• The statute does not say what amount of rent must be listed; check the statute or a local attorney.
• Notices under R.C. 5313.06 or 5321.17(C) count as satisfying the requirement.
• Cities and counties can add their own rules, including rent control and extra notice requirements. Check your local rules too.

About this page

We checked this page against the official sources listed below in November 2026. Where an official page did not say something, we say so. Laws change and courts read them differently, so confirm the current rule with the statute, the court or a local attorney before you act. This is general information, not legal advice.