How is "constructive eviction" defined in Ohio landlord-tenant law?

Constructive eviction is defined in Ohio landlord-tenant law as a situation where a landlord fails to maintain a rental property, resulting in conditions that are so intolerable that the tenant is effectively forced to leave. This legal doctrine recognizes that while a landlord may not physically evict a tenant, their actions (or lack thereof) can create an environment that makes it impossible for a tenant to continue living in the property.

For a constructive eviction claim to be valid, the tenant typically must show that the landlord's negligence directly led to significant issues—such as lack of heat, water, or essential repairs—that affected their ability to enjoy the property. In such cases, the tenant can legally vacate the premises and may have grounds to seek damages.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of constructive eviction. Providing adequate living conditions goes against the premise of constructive eviction, while being late on rent or evicting a tenant due to non-payment focuses solely on financial obligations rather than the conditions of the property itself.