Real estate law deals with a wide variety of issues, such as the purchase and sale of property, the establishment of title and boundary lines, and landlord-tenant relationships. Every state has its own set of rules governing the ownership and use of land, and whether you’re a real estate investor, buyer, seller, or renter, you need to know your legal rights and obligations. This is why many in Stow, OH, and the surrounding area turn to The Law Offices of S. David Worhatch for clarification on real estate law and regulations. Below, he discusses a few essential laws every Ohio resident should understand.

2 Important Real Estate Laws You Need to Know

1. Lease & Rental Agreements

State real estate laws are responsible for moderating the relationship between landlords and tenants to ensure both parties are properly protected. In Ohio, it is unlawful for landlords to discriminate against renters or applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin, or familial status. Lease and rental agreement laws stipulate that security deposits must be returned within 30 days of the agreement being terminated. Additionally, although leases may vary between landlords, they should all include the landlord’s name and contact information, rent amount and due date, rules for subletting, the procedure for reporting maintenance and repair requests, and the lease start and end date.

2. Adverse Possession

Adverse possession laws make it possible for someone who has been using a piece of land for a substantial period of time to take over the title of that land despite not being the recorded property owner. This is done to make sure land is continuously maintained and used in a productive manner. Under Ohio legislation, an adverse possession title cannot be transferred until the nonowner has been treating the land as their own for at least 21 years.

If you are preparing to enter into a real estate transaction or have a property dispute that needs to be resolved, seek counsel from an attorney who specializes in this area of practice. With over 25 years of experience, The Law Offices of S. David Worhatch will help you successfully navigate the different legal challenges involving residential and commercial real estate law. He offers sound advice and effective representation in a broad range of cases that affect property owners, tenants, and investors. Call his office at (330) 656-2300, or visit his website for more information on his practice areas.