The bill amends the Revised Code to establish new limitations on how municipalities can recover unpaid water, sewer, and disposal service rates from property owners of non-owner-occupied properties. Key provisions include a requirement for municipalities to provide additional certification to the county auditor before certifying a lien, which must include the parcel number, property owner's name, and verification of the information. Municipalities are also mandated to attempt collection of unpaid charges at least three times via certified mail and to wait a minimum of 180 days after the due date before certifying a lien. The bill aims to ensure a structured process for lien certification and collection, thereby protecting property owners' rights while allowing municipalities to recover unpaid service charges effectively.

Additionally, the bill introduces a "termination amount" for unpaid municipal service rates that can lead to service termination and establishes that anyone contracting for these services is responsible for all associated costs. It creates a rebuttable presumption that amounts exceeding the termination amount cannot be certified as a lien against property owners unless specific conditions are met. The bill also allows for tenant reinstatement fees, outlines procedures for filing complaints regarding improper billing, and details the appeals process for unresolved complaints and municipal liens. Overall, the legislation clarifies the responsibilities and rights of both tenants and property owners concerning municipal services while ensuring that municipalities can effectively manage unpaid charges.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 321.261, 701.10, 729.49, 735.29, 743.04, 743.06