Bill > HB92

This bill addresses the procedures for municipalities collecting unpaid water, sewer, and trash service charges from property owners, particularly for non-owner-occupied rental properties. The legislation establishes a comprehensive framework that protects property owners from being held responsible for unpaid municipal service charges that were not incurred directly by them. Key provisions include requiring municipalities to make at least three attempts to collect unpaid charges by certified mail, wait 180 days before certifying a lien, and provide notice to property owners before placing a lien on their property. The bill creates a rebuttable presumption that property owners cannot be held liable for charges exceeding the "termination amount" unless specific conditions are met, such as the owner agreeing to pay the charges or occupying the property. Property owners are given the right to appeal municipal liens in municipal or county court, and if successful, the court can order the removal of the lien and require the municipality to pay the owner's legal fees. The legislation also establishes procedures for billing disputes, tenant reinstatement fees, and tracking of unpaid charges across different properties. These changes aim to provide more protection and clarity for property owners while ensuring municipalities have reasonable methods to collect legitimate service charges.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb92