Does a landlord have to have the keys to a rented property? Ohio Law?

Do you mean keep a copy while is is under lease or have the keys returned after the lease expires?

Hello dot:

When you say "have to", do you mean is it a law?? It isn't, but the landlord may insist upon having a set of keys to your/his house. I would if I was your landlord.

excon

Most landlord tenant laws give landlords permission to enter the premises in case of an emergency. This would imply they have a right to have a set of keys.

Isn't it even more simple? I do not believe that the tenant has a right to make modifications to a rental property without the landlord's permission. And the only way to get a set of locks that the landlord does not have the keys to would be to have the doors rekeyed without the landlord's knowledge.

The problem is that the landlord comes in and out whenever they choose. If I get any notice it is right before they walk in the door and it is always when I am not home. I don't know what to do about this.

Hello dot:

Landlord tenant law requires your landlord to give you reasonable notice. That means at least 24 hours. Write your landlord a letter. Send it certified, return receipt requested. Tell her that she will not be allowed in UNLESS she give proper notice.

excon

What reasons does she give? If she is violating the lease you may be able to bring this up to your local Housing agency.

You should also get a chain for when you are at home.

But YOU would be violating the lease to change the locks.