Illinois
2.3 million Hispanics
Summary: renting in Illinois
Illinois, especially Chicago, offers significant protections including interest on security deposits.
In this guide you will find, clearly and in plain language, the essentials about renting in Illinois: how much the landlord can charge you for a deposit, how much notice they must give you before an eviction, whether rent control exists, and what your basic rights are as a tenant. Knowing these rules is the first step to living with peace of mind and avoiding abuse.
Main law: Chicago Residential Landlord-Tenant Ordinance
Maximum deposit
No state limit (Chicago: 1.5 months)
Eviction notice
5-30 days
Rent control
No state control (Chicago has ordinances)
💡 Tip for Illinois
In Chicago, your landlord may owe you interest on your security deposit. Keep your receipts.
⚠️ Common problem to avoid
City vs. state differences: Chicago rules are more protective than the rest of Illinois.
Key tenant rights in Illinois
- • Right to a habitable and safe home
- • Protection against housing discrimination
- • Right to privacy (notice before the landlord enters)
- • Protection against retaliation for legitimate complaints
- • Right to the return of the security deposit
Do you have a problem with your landlord in Illinois? Follow these steps
- 1
Document everything: keep your lease, payment receipts, and take dated photos of any problem in the home.
- 2
Always notify your landlord in writing (text message, email, or letter) and keep a copy. Verbal messages do not work as proof.
- 3
If the landlord does not respond, seek free legal help for Illinois tenants. Many organizations advise you at no cost.
- 4
Call 2-1-1 to find local housing resources and assistance in your area, available in Spanish.
- 5
If you suffered discrimination, report it for free to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777.
Frequently asked questions about Illinois
How much can the landlord ask me for a security deposit in Illinois?
In Illinois, the security deposit limit is: No state limit (Chicago: 1.5 months). Always keep the payment receipt and take photos of the home condition when you move in to protect your money.
How much notice can they give me before eviction in Illinois?
The typical eviction notice in Illinois is 5-30 days. Never ignore a notice: respond immediately and seek free legal help if you believe the eviction is unfair.
Is there rent control in Illinois?
About rent control in Illinois: No state control (Chicago has ordinances). Even if there is no state control, some cities have their own rules, so check the local ordinance.
What is the main law that protects me as a tenant in Illinois?
The key law in Illinois is the Chicago Residential Landlord-Tenant Ordinance. This rule defines your basic rights over habitability, deposits, repairs, and the eviction process.
Resources in Illinois
- • Call 2-1-1 for local resources
- • Free legal help for Illinois tenants
- • HUD — Discrimination complaints
Need a letter?
Download free model letters and documents to claim your deposit, request repairs, and more.
See documents