Columbus requires a landlord who charges a security deposit to offer tenants the option of paying it in three or six monthly installments, under the city's Housing for All ordinances.
Columbus adds tenant protections that change how deposits come in and who you can screen out, and Franklin County sets its own conveyance fee on the purchase. For the Ohio rules that apply statewide, see DSCR loans in Ohio.
What does Columbus require for security deposits?
Under Ordinance 0495-2021, a Columbus landlord who requires a security deposit must offer two alternatives to paying it in full: three monthly installments or six monthly installments.
- Ordinance 0494-2021 bars denying prospective tenants based on lawful source of income, such as housing vouchers.
- Ordinance 0496-2021 requires a written receipt when a tenant pays rent or a security deposit.
Exception: These rules amend Columbus City Code chapters 4501 and 4551. Read the current code before setting deposit terms.
According to the Columbus City Council, Housing for All, as of October 2026.
What conveyance fee applies on a Columbus purchase?
Franklin County charges a conveyance fee of $3 per $1,000 of the sale price, $1 for the state and $2 set by the county commissioners, with a $3 minimum, plus a $0.50 transfer tax on non-exempt transfers.
| Sale price | Conveyance fee at $3 per $1,000 |
|---|---|
| $200,000 | $600 |
| $300,000 | $900 |
Exception: If the seller receives the homestead exemption, the county's $2 portion is waived. Confirm the figure with the title company.
According to the Franklin County Auditor, Conveyance Fee Calculator, as of October 2026.
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This page is general education about business-purpose real estate financing and state law as published by official sources on the date shown. It is not legal, tax or lending advice, not an offer to lend and not a rate quote. Laws and lender guidelines change; confirm current rules with the lender, the title company and your own attorney or tax adviser.