Application fee amount limit? And form stating nonrefundable?

[Tim Phillips]

Just purchased my first small 6 unit apartment in Ohio, I have 1 vacant unit that I am looking to start showing but I read at somewhere there is a limit to the amount you can charge a tenant on an application fee for background and credit check that is set by the state. I can’t seem to find this anywhere for current Ohio law.

I plan to start by having tenants do it themselves with smartmove which is $35. I assume this amount is fine for a nonrefundable amount and done by them but I would still like to find out the amount so I know.

Also do you have them sign something specific stating the fee is nonrefundable. I am telling them all the standard requirements before even seeing the unit, 3x rent, good credit, no criminal record and no evictions.

Thanks