New Law Prohibits Landlords from Retaliating Against Tenants

 Posted on August 27, 2024 in Civil law

Governor JB Pritzker recently signed an Illinois bill prohibiting landlords from retaliating against tenants in the form of landlord evictions. Landlords may not terminate a lease, increase the monthly rent, threaten a lawsuit, or decrease tenants' services only because the tenant complained.  A landlord may also not refuse to renew a lease after a tenant complains about a code violation or takes the issue to his or her elected leaders.

Although the goal of the new law – which goes into effect on January 1 – is meant to ensure rentals are properly maintained, it may end up having a negative effect on landlords and renters alike. The bill could inadvertently force small landlords to sell to big corporations who are likely to be even less concerned about tenants’ rights, and it could drive up rental costs for tenants as well.

If you are an Illinois landlord concerned about the effect this new law may have on your rentals, speaking to an experienced Naperville, IL landlord eviction attorney can answer any questions you may have. When you choose Appelman Law LLC, our legal team can help you do what is sometimes necessary regarding evicting a tenant.

What Are the Current Rights and Responsibilities of Illinois Landlords?

Under Illinois Landlord and Tenants Rights and Laws, landlords are already required to do the following:

• The rental unit must be fit for tenants to live in.  
• Any necessary repairs to the rental must be made by the landlord.
• The rental must comply with all local and state health and housing codes.
• The landlord can set the rent amount and security deposit required.
• Tenants who are late with their rent payments can be charged a reasonable fee. 
• Landlords can make reasonable rules for those who live in the rental.
• Although security deposits are typically equal to a month’s rent, a landlord can charge any security deposit amount.
• If the tenant is given seven days’ notice for a week-to-week rental or 30 days' notice for a month-to-month rental, the landlord can raise the rent by any amount he or she deems necessary.
• A yearly lease requires 60 days written notice that the rent will increase.
• A lease can be terminated by the landlord without providing a reason for the termination.

What Are the Rights and Responsibilities of Illinois Tenants?

Tenants also have rights and responsibilities under Illinois law, including:

• Any damage beyond normal wear and tear is the tenant’s responsibility.
• The rental unit must remain clean and undamaged.
• If the lease makes you responsible for utilities, those bills must be kept current.
• The rental may not be altered without prior approval from the landlord.
• The rent must be paid to the landlord in full and on time each month.
• If you want your security deposit returned, you must give 30 days' notice if you intend to move.
• If you owe no back rent, you cleaned the rental before you left, and there is no damage to the rental, the landlord must return your security deposit within 45 days.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Landlord Eviction Attorney

Few landlords want to evict a tenant; however, some situations make it necessary. A Naperville, IL landlord eviction attorney will ensure a necessary eviction goes smoothly by managing the process from beginning to end. After assisting you in identifying evidence, filing paperwork, and meeting deadlines, we will provide representation in the courtroom on your behalf. Our goal at Appelman Law LLC is to get your property back to you as quickly as possible while following the law. Contact Appelman Law LLC at 630-717-7801 today to schedule a free consultation.