Illinois Tenant Rights
Chicago has its own comprehensive tenant protection ordinance (RLTO) that is far stronger than state law. Always check local rules.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- No statewide limit (Chicago limits to 1.5 months' rent)
- Return deadline
- 30-45 days
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- No statewide requirement (Chicago requires 2 days)
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- No
- Details
- Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (765 ILCS 750) prohibits local rent control.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- 5 days (Chicago ordinance)
- Late fee limit
- $10/month for first $500, 5% over $500 (Chicago)
Early Lease Termination
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence (Safe Homes Act), uninhabitable conditions. Chicago RLTO provides additional protections.
Key Statutes & Laws
- Illinois Compiled Statutes 765 ILCS 705-750
- Chicago RLTO (5-12-010 et seq.)
Frequently Asked Questions — Illinois Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in Illinois?
In Illinois, the security deposit limit is No statewide limit (Chicago limits to 1.5 months' rent). Landlords must return the deposit within 30-45 days.
How much notice must a Illinois landlord give before entering?
Illinois requires No statewide requirement (Chicago requires 2 days) before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does Illinois have rent control?
Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act (765 ILCS 750) prohibits local rent control.
Can I break my lease early in Illinois?
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence (Safe Homes Act), uninhabitable conditions. Chicago RLTO provides additional protections.
What is the late fee grace period in Illinois?
5 days (Chicago ordinance). Late fee limit: $10/month for first $500, 5% over $500 (Chicago).
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This guide provides general information about Illinois tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.