Re: Ohio Rental Late Fees
Do you have a written lease agreement? If so, what does it say about late fees?
Is the "upstairs" of your apartment supposed to be living space, or it it something else (e.g., an attic or storage space)?
Re: Ohio Rental Late Fees
Hi Aaron!
Yes, my Upstairs consists of a landing space from the stairs and 2 bedrooms, that are supposed to be bedrooms. I don't have a copy of my lease anymore, i plan on asking for a new one. We had a flood last year that wrecked our basement. (which my landlady did nothing to help with the cleanup) So I am unsure. I think it said she charges 10% of the rent. Which is 52.50. i don't know where she came up with the 6.00 daily charge, as she just began doing it this year.
Re: Ohio Rental Late Fees
Late fees are a matter of contract, so the terms of your lease are important. If there's no provision for a late fee, no late fee can be charged. If there is a term, the landlord can't change it - if it says "10% of rent" and that amount is $52.50, she can't unilaterally increase it to $6/day or $100.
Beyond that, there appears to be a split in Ohio's courts, with some requiring a landlord provide some evidence of actual damages in support of a claimed late fee, and others upholding an agreed upon, one-time late fee that is reasonable in proportion to the rental rate, and that has a rational basis supporting the imposition of the charge.
A landlord has a duty to "Keep in good working order all electrical, plumbing, heating,
and ventilation systems and fixtures." It sounds like your landlord has failed to fulfill that duty.
Re: Ohio Rental Late Fees
I thought that also, that she should have to provide heat throughout the house. Yesterday when I spoke with her, she told me I was living in luxury over the winter for having my thermostat set at 72. Well, when you don't have heat upstairs, you have to pump it up. cheez.
Who could I complain to about the no-heat issue? Or will I have to go through the rent escrow through my local court route?
Thanks again for the speedy response, it is very much appreciated.
Re: Ohio Rental Late Fees
There may be a housing inspector for the city (or government unit) where you live.