Receivership

Receivership is a legal process that can be used to address residential properties that are unsafe, seriously neglected, or in ongoing violation of housing or safety codes.

Under Ohio law, a court may appoint a receiver to take temporary control of a problem property when the owner has failed to correct conditions that pose a risk to health or safety. Receivership is intended as a remedial tool of last resort, focused on correcting dangerous conditions and protecting the surrounding community.

In Lucas County, receivership proceedings are handled not by the Lucas County Treasurer, but by the Toledo Housing Court. For more information visit their website here or consult Ohio Revised Code Section 3767.41.

What Is a Receiver?

A receiver is a neutral third party appointed by a court to manage a property for a limited period of time. Depending on the court’s order, a receiver may be authorized to:

  • Take possession and control of the property

  • Make necessary repairs to correct code violations

  • Manage the property and collect rent

  • Hire contractors and professionals to complete work

  • Take additional steps approved by the court to abate unsafe conditions

All actions taken by a receiver are subject to court oversight.

When Receivership May Be Considered

Receivership may be considered when:

  • A residential property has serious or persistent housing, building, or safety code violations

  • The property has been determined by a court to be a public nuisance

  • The property owner has been given notice and an opportunity to correct the problems but has failed to do so

Receivership is not automatic and is not used for routine maintenance issues. It requires a court finding and judicial approval.

Who Can Request Receivership?

Under Ohio law, a receivership action may be initiated by:

  • A local government or code enforcement authority

  • A tenant of the property

  • A neighboring property owner

  • Certain nonprofit organizations with a housing or community development purpose

Requests for receivership are filed with the court and reviewed through a formal legal process.

How Receivership Differs from Foreclosure

Receivership is not a foreclosure.

  • The property owner does not automatically lose ownership.

  • The purpose is to correct unsafe conditions, not to transfer ownership.

  • The process is supervised by the court and focused on compliance and stabilization.

In some cases, receivership may help stabilize a property and prevent further decline. In other cases, additional legal action may still be necessary.

Important Considerations

  • Receivership is a legal process and may require legal counsel.

  • Not all problem properties qualify for receivership.

  • The court determines whether a receiver is appointed and what authority the receiver has.

  • Costs associated with receivership are governed by law and court order.

Learn More

Receivership proceedings are handled by the Toledo Housing Court. For more information about the process in Lucas County, visit their website here or consult Ohio Revised Code Section 3767.41.

The Lucas County Treasurer’s Office provides this information for general educational purposes and does not initiate or manage receivership proceedings.