Ohio Rev. Code § 5321 § 5321.12
Recovery of damages.
Operative Text
In any action under Chapter 5321. of the Revised Code, any party may recover damages for the breach of contract or the breach of any duty that is imposed by law.
Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.12 establishes that in any legal action brought under Ohio's landlord-tenant law (Chapter 5321), either party—landlord or tenant—may seek monetary damages when the other side has breached a contract or violated a duty imposed by law. The provision applies symmetrically, meaning neither side has an exclusive claim to this remedy. It functions as a general damages-recovery mechanism that works alongside the more specific remedies found elsewhere in Chapter 5321.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.12, property owners and managers are not the only ones who can pursue damages—they can also assert claims against tenants who breach lease terms or statutory duties. Compliant operators typically document lease obligations clearly, keep records of any tenant violations, and understand that Chapter 5321 creates a two-way street for damage claims. Familiarity with the full scope of Chapter 5321 helps operators understand both their exposure and their potential remedies.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.12 gives tenants the right to recover damages when a landlord breaches the lease agreement or fails to meet a duty imposed by Ohio law under Chapter 5321. This can include situations where a landlord violates habitability standards, unlawfully withholds a security deposit, or otherwise fails to meet statutory obligations. Tenants who believe they have suffered harm may consider consulting a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office to understand what types of damages may be recoverable under this provision.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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