There are several key laws that govern the relationship that tenants and landlords have in the state of Illinois. Here is an easy guide to Illinois landlord tenant law and the key points you’ll want to know.
1. The Return Of The Security Deposit.
Landlords have up to 45 days to return a security deposit after a tenant moves out. In certain situations, it may be reduced to 30 days. The timing depends on what deductions are necessary and if an itemized list of deductions has been provided.
2. At Least 30 Days Is Necessary To Raise The Rent.
Landlords may have the option to raise the rent on their tenants or change certain components of the rental agreement. A minimum of 30 days notice is necessary for these changes and typically only occurs when there isn’t a long-term lease governing the relationship.
3. Tenants Have 5 More Days To Pay The Rent.
If a deadline to pay the rent has not been met, then landlords must send a 5 day notice to pay or quit before an eviction actions may take place. If the landlord does not provide this notice, then no legal eviction may take place.
4. Landlords Can Send An Unconditional Quit Notice.
If the lease violation is something other than not paying the rent on time, then landlords in Illinois have the option to give their tenant a 10 day unconditional quit notice. This forces the tenant to move out within that time period or face a legal eviction.
5. Cities And Counties In Illinois Can Have Their Own Regulations.
There are specific city and county statues that may also govern the landlord-tenant relationship in Illinois. This is especially true for tenants in the city of Chicago. In these circumstances, the city or county code takes precedence over the state laws that govern this relationship.
6. A Landlord May Need To Pay Security Deposit Interest.
Landlords who own 25+ units must pay interest to tenants if the deposit is held for 6 months or longer. This interest must be credited or paid to tenants every 12 months.
7. Tenants Can Repair And Deduct.
Repairs cannot exceed $500 or one-half of the rent, whichever is less. Written notice of the repair is generally required first.
This easy guide to Illinois landlord tenant law is not intended to cover every situation. For specific questions, you will wish to visit the official ILCS statutes that govern your circumstances.
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